May 30, P90X3, Week 3, Day 6- The Warrior.
Venue was the same as last week. I went to the gym, found a quiet corner, set up a cushion mat and went at it with my iPad. Last time for this routine until, I think, block 3. I don't have the Fitness Guide or the schedule at hand, so don't quote me on that. What can I say about training like a warrior. It was intense and I pushed it as hard as I could. Even though I knew I would be playing tennis right afterward, I pushed and it almost felt like a hit a new level of something. I can't explain it. I mean, the sweat and heaving from exhaustion were palpable, but that just energized me somehow. Again, I went full bore with the Super Burpees and lasted only three and a half reps before having to slow down. The burnout: Depth Charges started off great, I was jumping as high as I could... for the first 3, or so, jumps, then for the rest of the move, it was all I could do to just get off the ground. I had to bring in a mop to clean up the sweat.
Now, why did I say the workout energized me? I had about 30 minutes before my tennis match, so I set up the net and practiced serving for a while, then I shot the basketball around for a while. When I started playing the match, I felt so focused. I was smacking the ball like it was a golf ball, but I was seeing a bowling ball. I was sprinting for every ball. I roared out of the gate and played a perfect first 4 games. Didn't lose a point in the first four games. Won all at love. Then I got careless and dropped a game before finishing off the set. Same story in the second. No perfect games, but took it at love. First bagel in a while. Then I drop the first game of the third. But the first two sets, Man, Those were the best two sets of tennis I've played in a long time. My feet felt light, I was focused, concentration was on. I was in the zone. It felt so good.
Last week, when I did The Warrior and then played tennis, I felt heavy and wasn't moving well. But this week. I just felt so good. One thing I must say is that I consciously tried to get more sleep the night before. I had to tell myself "STOP" when I was doing some work and the hour was getting past 11pm. Last night, I got 7.5 hours and I felt GRRRREAT! Am I seeing a turning point? I hope so. I'll keep you in the loop.
Final score, 6-1, 6-0, 6-3, 6-1.
Final Calorie burn = 2009kcals
I don't want to sound so full of myself, because I know I would never have hit this type of performance without Beachbody, and all the awesome tools they have provided for my fitness. I laud them for their efforts and for supporting me. And I thank you all for you continued love and support.
I'm glad to have finished Week 3 of P90X3 with a BANG!
Friday, May 30, 2014
Thursday, May 29, 2014
May 29, P90X3, Week 3, Day 5- CVX
May
29, P90X3, Week 3, Day 5- CVX.
A friend said she did CVX with 10lbs. Last week I did it with 9lbs. I wanted to be like her so I grabbed my 5kg medicine ball and attacked this workout. In a word. KILLER!!! Right from the start I could notice the difference in just 1kg. I really pushed to hang, and hang I did... just barely. Although, I must admit I took an extra 10-15 seconds between each set on each of the second rounds.
I noticed that my core was really lose with the heavier weight. That became blindingly clear on the second circuit with the two twisting moves, when I move the weight from one side to the other while doing high knees. My butt was wagging back and forth. I also need to be careful to watch my lower back. Don't want to throw it out again. I was forced, if I wanted to stay stable with my body square, to really tighten my core and move the weight. Good eye-opener. I guess I was being a little lazy the past few times with the lighter weight. I guess it is a learning process. Next time, I'll try to crush it!
BTW, I was rather sore from yesterday's "The Challenge". I think my foam rolling day will be earlier if I can get to it tonight!
A friend said she did CVX with 10lbs. Last week I did it with 9lbs. I wanted to be like her so I grabbed my 5kg medicine ball and attacked this workout. In a word. KILLER!!! Right from the start I could notice the difference in just 1kg. I really pushed to hang, and hang I did... just barely. Although, I must admit I took an extra 10-15 seconds between each set on each of the second rounds.
I noticed that my core was really lose with the heavier weight. That became blindingly clear on the second circuit with the two twisting moves, when I move the weight from one side to the other while doing high knees. My butt was wagging back and forth. I also need to be careful to watch my lower back. Don't want to throw it out again. I was forced, if I wanted to stay stable with my body square, to really tighten my core and move the weight. Good eye-opener. I guess I was being a little lazy the past few times with the lighter weight. I guess it is a learning process. Next time, I'll try to crush it!
BTW, I was rather sore from yesterday's "The Challenge". I think my foam rolling day will be earlier if I can get to it tonight!
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
May 28, P90X3, Week 3, Day 4- The Challenge
May 28, P90X3, Week 3, Day 4- The Challenge.
Enough Said.
Hehe. But I've got to say more. Let's talk numbers. This week, I upped my pull/Chin up number from 10 to 12. I was considering keeping it at 10 for the third week in a row, but I figured, Man, I got to push it today. So I upped it to 12. I kept my push up number at 25. I struggled with 25 last week, so I want to get straight 25 every set without coming to my knees.
Enough Said.
Hehe. But I've got to say more. Let's talk numbers. This week, I upped my pull/Chin up number from 10 to 12. I was considering keeping it at 10 for the third week in a row, but I figured, Man, I got to push it today. So I upped it to 12. I kept my push up number at 25. I struggled with 25 last week, so I want to get straight 25 every set without coming to my knees.
The first block went well. I hit my numbers on the money. The block with chin ups, I had to break up the Chin ups, 8-4 for both sets. I was able to keep the 25 with the Military Push ups, but I could feel the burn and pain coming.
Third block with the close grip pull ups was tough. First set went 4-4-4, and the second set, 6-3-3. I was able to keep 25 wide push ups, but needed a couple mid-set breaks. I DID NOT break plank, stayed up the whole time.
The fourth block was good. First set of Vaulter pull ups I did 6-4-2, and then the second set went 4-5-3. The staggered push ups were better, but I took a few mid-set breaks after 15 reps, then after 5's. But for just a breath. The Staggered push ups are placed well because they are easier to do than say, Military or even standard.
Burn out, I was able to push it and do 12 sets of the 1 pull up and 3 push ups cycle. That is one more than the previous week. However, the last set of push ups was after Tony called time.
I was basically winded the whole workout and when I checked my calorie burn, I had burned over 650kcals. Close to 800 for the whole workout including the Cold Start and my extra stretch and cool down.
Got a great burn and pump! Felt really good, and my arms were shaking for about 20 minutes afterwards.
Great way to start the day!
Third block with the close grip pull ups was tough. First set went 4-4-4, and the second set, 6-3-3. I was able to keep 25 wide push ups, but needed a couple mid-set breaks. I DID NOT break plank, stayed up the whole time.
The fourth block was good. First set of Vaulter pull ups I did 6-4-2, and then the second set went 4-5-3. The staggered push ups were better, but I took a few mid-set breaks after 15 reps, then after 5's. But for just a breath. The Staggered push ups are placed well because they are easier to do than say, Military or even standard.
Burn out, I was able to push it and do 12 sets of the 1 pull up and 3 push ups cycle. That is one more than the previous week. However, the last set of push ups was after Tony called time.
I was basically winded the whole workout and when I checked my calorie burn, I had burned over 650kcals. Close to 800 for the whole workout including the Cold Start and my extra stretch and cool down.
Got a great burn and pump! Felt really good, and my arms were shaking for about 20 minutes afterwards.
Great way to start the day!
May 27, P90X3, Week 3, Day 3- X3 Yoga + Mark Laurn's Novice: Ladder.
May 27, P90X3, Week 3, Day 3- X3 Yoga + Mark Laurn's Novice: Ladder.
Yeah, I did it again. Just to do it. Added a little to the workout. Felt really good to do a little extra. And it is really, just a little. About a fifteen minute workout with a 12 minute warm up, cool down. Also did the Cold Start before the Yoga. So close to 80 minutes for just under 500kcals burned.
I'm quite used to the X3 Yoga routine but one move still just kills me. I just can't do it at all. Move 21. Extended Leg with Toe Bind. When I grab my toe, my leg just can't extend. It's like at a 90 degree angle and I can't keep my balance. That is just the worst move for me at this point.
Yeah, I did it again. Just to do it. Added a little to the workout. Felt really good to do a little extra. And it is really, just a little. About a fifteen minute workout with a 12 minute warm up, cool down. Also did the Cold Start before the Yoga. So close to 80 minutes for just under 500kcals burned.
I'm quite used to the X3 Yoga routine but one move still just kills me. I just can't do it at all. Move 21. Extended Leg with Toe Bind. When I grab my toe, my leg just can't extend. It's like at a 90 degree angle and I can't keep my balance. That is just the worst move for me at this point.
My most improved move is move 10. Bound Side Angle Pose. The wrap was
actually easier than usual to make and my chest was more open than it
has ever been before with that move spanning back to X2 Yoga which is
the first time I ever tried that wrap move.
Quick question about Child's Pose. Am I supposed to stretch out as far as I can with my arms straight, elbows in the air with hands on the ground, or can\should I put my elbows on the ground?
Breathing was noticeably easier during the twist moves, such as Twisted Moon, and Twisted Triangle. Usually, when I take a deep breath, my form collapses but today, I was able to hold the poses.
Fish is a really tough move for me still. I keep thinking that my arms are shorter than the average person because leaning back that far is not humanly possible. Hehe. No, actually my back is naturally overly arched so for some reason hyper extending my lower back's arch is really difficult especially since two of my lumbar discs have been deflated to almost nothing. It is just painful to arch back farther than the natural arch.
I'm very happy to be seeing progress with my Yoga and flexibility.
Mark Lauren's Novice: Ladder is a nice little workout that builds the number of reps of two moves twice up and down the ladder 1 rep to 4 reps, twice. And that cycle is done twice with two sets of two different moves each. It was the first time for me to do this workout. Nice with the static holds. Not really a cardio workout. Added an extra 175+/- kcal burn to today. Gave me some back strengthening moves which I always need.
Quick question about Child's Pose. Am I supposed to stretch out as far as I can with my arms straight, elbows in the air with hands on the ground, or can\should I put my elbows on the ground?
Breathing was noticeably easier during the twist moves, such as Twisted Moon, and Twisted Triangle. Usually, when I take a deep breath, my form collapses but today, I was able to hold the poses.
Fish is a really tough move for me still. I keep thinking that my arms are shorter than the average person because leaning back that far is not humanly possible. Hehe. No, actually my back is naturally overly arched so for some reason hyper extending my lower back's arch is really difficult especially since two of my lumbar discs have been deflated to almost nothing. It is just painful to arch back farther than the natural arch.
I'm very happy to be seeing progress with my Yoga and flexibility.
Mark Lauren's Novice: Ladder is a nice little workout that builds the number of reps of two moves twice up and down the ladder 1 rep to 4 reps, twice. And that cycle is done twice with two sets of two different moves each. It was the first time for me to do this workout. Nice with the static holds. Not really a cardio workout. Added an extra 175+/- kcal burn to today. Gave me some back strengthening moves which I always need.
Monday, May 26, 2014
May 26, P90X3, Week 3, Day 2- Agility X
May 26, P90X3, Week 3, Day 2- Agility X.
Third time going through this workout, one would think that I should remember the moves, but for some reason, I don't. I still had to watch them do it first, then rewind the DVD and then start. I'm getting the Cold Start down pretty well, but the individual workouts are still tough to remember.
Again, I really tried to push as far as my body would let me and keep my form all good. Something I'm starting to realize is that my posture is somewhat off. I mean, when I check the angle of my back leg on lunges, it is not straight. So when I try to straighten my position, my knee starts to tweek. I don't want to be crooked, but I don't want to hurt my knee at the same time.
Third time going through this workout, one would think that I should remember the moves, but for some reason, I don't. I still had to watch them do it first, then rewind the DVD and then start. I'm getting the Cold Start down pretty well, but the individual workouts are still tough to remember.
Again, I really tried to push as far as my body would let me and keep my form all good. Something I'm starting to realize is that my posture is somewhat off. I mean, when I check the angle of my back leg on lunges, it is not straight. So when I try to straighten my position, my knee starts to tweek. I don't want to be crooked, but I don't want to hurt my knee at the same time.
The
moves have been pretty easy to do, per se, but doing them for an
extended period of time is killer. Case in point. Scissor Kick Jumps,
Plyo V Lunge. Having to turn in mid-air to get the cross is really
challenging. Jump Knee Jump. Killer. And for some reason, after doing
the Long Jump Sprint, I was so winded, I had to take a minute to catch
my breath before doing the last move. And on the last move, I couldn't
hang. Had to stop several times and go on my knees.
Some of the more intense moves, like Toe Tap Skater, and Triangle Lunges. I have to really struggle to keep form, especially when going forward on the TTSkater, and when transferring from the side lunge to the back lunge in the Tri-lunge. Again, trying to adjust and find just the perfect position to keep balance is an intense process.
Great workout out. I'm averaging 500kcals now per workout. Plus whatever I burn in Cold Start and my own cool down. I won't see this workout again until BLOCK 3. Sad, but It will be interesting to see if I'll be able to hang the next time I do it. BRING IT!!!
Some of the more intense moves, like Toe Tap Skater, and Triangle Lunges. I have to really struggle to keep form, especially when going forward on the TTSkater, and when transferring from the side lunge to the back lunge in the Tri-lunge. Again, trying to adjust and find just the perfect position to keep balance is an intense process.
Great workout out. I'm averaging 500kcals now per workout. Plus whatever I burn in Cold Start and my own cool down. I won't see this workout again until BLOCK 3. Sad, but It will be interesting to see if I'll be able to hang the next time I do it. BRING IT!!!
Sunday, May 25, 2014
May 25, P90X3, Week 3, Day 1- Total Synergistics.
May 25, P90X3, Week 3, Day 1- Total Synergistics.
Looking at my schedule, this is the final week of the raw Block 1 because next week looks like a recovery week. So, I decided to really push it hard from the get go. But instead of increasing my weights, I figured I'd just go for speed and a higher level of intensity concentrating on form. From the first move, I really tried to make my form as perfect as I could with as much range of motion as I could. As in move 2. Crescent Chair, I tried to keep my chair a 90 degrees and then my back leg as straight as possible, with chest up, elbows locked. I think I did pretty well for a novice.
I tried to go as low as possible on the Plie squats (6), That was painful. Legs straight on all the "Boat" moves. Everything was going very well. I felt really good, so I decided to go ahead and up my weights from 10kgs to 12kgs. Not so much, but it made a big difference. On the (11) Glamor Hammer, I barely got 12 reps on the right and barely 10 on the left. Last week with 10kgs, I got 12 on both sides with some struggle.
I should have gone up in weight on the (13) Flying Warrior. I'll admit, 5kgs in each hand was too easy, but my form was good. I think my balance moves were a lot better this week. Then the last three moves. (14) Squat Rockers up to 12kgs. OUCH! Dropped to 8 reps from 14. I really tried to get low on the chair move. I had to come out of it a few times. (15) Side rise Punch, I broke the rule, I caught myself holding my breath on the last couple reps on both sides.
On the final move, (16) Warrior Squat Moon. I was determined to have perfect form, straight back leg, strong reach up, and out. I went from 7 to 8 reps. My butt was in major pain on both sides by the 8th rep. Maybe a little too much pain. I didn't cramp up or anything, but I will admit that I got a touch of dizziness right after the move. Maybe pushed it a little to far. Took my cool down a little slower and longer today.
Yes, I will be careful tomorrow. But WEEK 3 is off and running! BRING IT!!!
Looking at my schedule, this is the final week of the raw Block 1 because next week looks like a recovery week. So, I decided to really push it hard from the get go. But instead of increasing my weights, I figured I'd just go for speed and a higher level of intensity concentrating on form. From the first move, I really tried to make my form as perfect as I could with as much range of motion as I could. As in move 2. Crescent Chair, I tried to keep my chair a 90 degrees and then my back leg as straight as possible, with chest up, elbows locked. I think I did pretty well for a novice.
I tried to go as low as possible on the Plie squats (6), That was painful. Legs straight on all the "Boat" moves. Everything was going very well. I felt really good, so I decided to go ahead and up my weights from 10kgs to 12kgs. Not so much, but it made a big difference. On the (11) Glamor Hammer, I barely got 12 reps on the right and barely 10 on the left. Last week with 10kgs, I got 12 on both sides with some struggle.
I should have gone up in weight on the (13) Flying Warrior. I'll admit, 5kgs in each hand was too easy, but my form was good. I think my balance moves were a lot better this week. Then the last three moves. (14) Squat Rockers up to 12kgs. OUCH! Dropped to 8 reps from 14. I really tried to get low on the chair move. I had to come out of it a few times. (15) Side rise Punch, I broke the rule, I caught myself holding my breath on the last couple reps on both sides.
On the final move, (16) Warrior Squat Moon. I was determined to have perfect form, straight back leg, strong reach up, and out. I went from 7 to 8 reps. My butt was in major pain on both sides by the 8th rep. Maybe a little too much pain. I didn't cramp up or anything, but I will admit that I got a touch of dizziness right after the move. Maybe pushed it a little to far. Took my cool down a little slower and longer today.
Yes, I will be careful tomorrow. But WEEK 3 is off and running! BRING IT!!!
May 24, P90X3- Rest Day
May
24, P90X3- Rest Day.
I didn't do anything strenuous today. Really rested today. However, I did Foam Roll for 35 minutes in the evening while watching "Whose Line is it Anyway?". When I would laugh while rolling a hot spot... OUCH!!! Calves especially had several hot spots. Along with my lats and Tris.
Vanilla Shakeology for Dinner. That flavor is fast becoming my favorite. Not because of the vanilla taste, but rather because the way the vanilla enhances the tastes of the various fruits I add to the Shakeology. Delicious!
I didn't do anything strenuous today. Really rested today. However, I did Foam Roll for 35 minutes in the evening while watching "Whose Line is it Anyway?". When I would laugh while rolling a hot spot... OUCH!!! Calves especially had several hot spots. Along with my lats and Tris.
Vanilla Shakeology for Dinner. That flavor is fast becoming my favorite. Not because of the vanilla taste, but rather because the way the vanilla enhances the tastes of the various fruits I add to the Shakeology. Delicious!
May 23, P90X3, Week 2, Day 6- The Warrior
May 23, P90X3, Week 2, Day 6- The Warrior.
Today was rather different from last week. First off, I knew today was going to be a double day so I made a concerted effort to get to bed a little earlier than usual. But before going to bed, I put the Cold Start and The Warrior onto my iPad because I don't have a DVD player at the gym. I got up early and went to the gym and did the Cold Start and The Warrior. I was able to hang until the Super Burpees.killed me. I pushed it hard, but only lasted 30 seconds before I had to take a breather. The other moves were great. I think this is one of my favorite workouts because it doesn't repeat the moves, and I love the variety of the moves. The combo of upper body, cardio, and core is a great systematic approach to the routine. It forces us to push when we can push and then raise the intensity when we can, namely, the core moves.
Today was rather different from last week. First off, I knew today was going to be a double day so I made a concerted effort to get to bed a little earlier than usual. But before going to bed, I put the Cold Start and The Warrior onto my iPad because I don't have a DVD player at the gym. I got up early and went to the gym and did the Cold Start and The Warrior. I was able to hang until the Super Burpees.killed me. I pushed it hard, but only lasted 30 seconds before I had to take a breather. The other moves were great. I think this is one of my favorite workouts because it doesn't repeat the moves, and I love the variety of the moves. The combo of upper body, cardio, and core is a great systematic approach to the routine. It forces us to push when we can push and then raise the intensity when we can, namely, the core moves.
In the next moment I played a tough match of tennis. At first, my legs
were like rubber. Warming up was tough. I just couldn't get my legs
under me. But as I was getting into it, my energy started coming back.
Great match, with some great games and rallies. I mean, so major knock
down bang up hitting all out rallies. So much fun, and those awesome
rallies just energized me more. Final score, 6-3, 6-1, 6-2. There were 5
games that I fell behind 15-40, but I came back to win in 4 of those
games. Good scrappy play. Tons of fun!
Total calorie burn 1600+kcals in over 2 hours of P90X3 and Tennis! Totally great way to end the week!
Total calorie burn 1600+kcals in over 2 hours of P90X3 and Tennis! Totally great way to end the week!
Thursday, May 22, 2014
May 22, P90X3, Week 2, Day 5
CVX.
Pushed it hard today.
I kept the weights in my hands the whole time. Last week I had to drop the weights from 4kgs to 2kgs for one move. My shoulders were dying with the March and Reach.
This is such a great workout. Last week I burned 494kcals, but I burned close to 650kcals.
No more holding back.
Pushed it hard today.
I kept the weights in my hands the whole time. Last week I had to drop the weights from 4kgs to 2kgs for one move. My shoulders were dying with the March and Reach.
This is such a great workout. Last week I burned 494kcals, but I burned close to 650kcals.
No more holding back.
May 21, P90X3, Week 2, Day 4
The Challenge.
In one word, OUCH!!!
Last week was the first go so I was a little conservative and found my limitation. Today, I pushed my limits. My number was 25 push ups, and 10 pull ups/chin ups. I went up on the push ups by 5. I stuck with 10 pull ups, because I only went to 10 on the first round, then I had to break it up 6-4 after that. Today, I went to the 7-3 split. The push ups were a real challenge. I knew doing that many sets would push me. I was able to stay up for all the sets except the second to last set. I had to go on my knees before the last 5.
In one word, OUCH!!!
Last week was the first go so I was a little conservative and found my limitation. Today, I pushed my limits. My number was 25 push ups, and 10 pull ups/chin ups. I went up on the push ups by 5. I stuck with 10 pull ups, because I only went to 10 on the first round, then I had to break it up 6-4 after that. Today, I went to the 7-3 split. The push ups were a real challenge. I knew doing that many sets would push me. I was able to stay up for all the sets except the second to last set. I had to go on my knees before the last 5.
Back to pull ups, I got the 10 in the first round, the 7-3 split on the
next 5, and then had to go back to the 6-4 split on the very last set.
The Burn Out I wanted to really push it, so I just kept going and was able to up the set count by one. From 10 to 11. Parallel Grip pull ups and then 3 regular push ups.
Got such a major burn. It took a longer than usual to get my heart rate down out of the zone. It took almost 15 minutes to get out of the zone. Then, I could barely lift my arms to get my undershirt on. Talk about rubber arms.
Finally, I think my new favorite grip is the Vaulter Pull up. I really felt like my arms and back were supporting each other as they got burned out. I couldn't have done any other form at the end. That was a great grip to put at the end of a grueling workout.
GREAT WORKOUT!!!
The Burn Out I wanted to really push it, so I just kept going and was able to up the set count by one. From 10 to 11. Parallel Grip pull ups and then 3 regular push ups.
Got such a major burn. It took a longer than usual to get my heart rate down out of the zone. It took almost 15 minutes to get out of the zone. Then, I could barely lift my arms to get my undershirt on. Talk about rubber arms.
Finally, I think my new favorite grip is the Vaulter Pull up. I really felt like my arms and back were supporting each other as they got burned out. I couldn't have done any other form at the end. That was a great grip to put at the end of a grueling workout.
GREAT WORKOUT!!!
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
May 20, P90X3, Week 2, Day 3
X3 Yoga
I had some extra time today so I was tempted to do X2 Yoga instead of X3 Yoga, but I stuck with the program as scheduled, because there was another little program that I really wanted to try out. So After I did X3 Yoga, I did that other program. But first, X3 Yoga.
Last week I didn't realized that there was Cold Start on X3 Yoga, but I noticed it this week and I did it. Sound weird? to do a warm up before Yoga? Not at all! No matter what workout I do, it always take about 10-15 minutes for me to get into a zone so the Cold Start is perfect to get me up and running so to speak. I was able to do the wrap better, but I realized that I have more power in my left leg that I do my right. Not exactly sure why. Maybe I was positioned wrong, but when going from Plane to Crescent Pose, I needed assistance on my right and popped up on my left. I'll have to pay attention more next time to see if it happens again and if it does, why. I didn't feel as rushed this time around either, except when Tony says, "We don't have time..." and "Gotta move." Then I felt a little rushed. I guess it's all mental. Over all felt really good and energized afterwards.
I had some extra time today so I was tempted to do X2 Yoga instead of X3 Yoga, but I stuck with the program as scheduled, because there was another little program that I really wanted to try out. So After I did X3 Yoga, I did that other program. But first, X3 Yoga.
Last week I didn't realized that there was Cold Start on X3 Yoga, but I noticed it this week and I did it. Sound weird? to do a warm up before Yoga? Not at all! No matter what workout I do, it always take about 10-15 minutes for me to get into a zone so the Cold Start is perfect to get me up and running so to speak. I was able to do the wrap better, but I realized that I have more power in my left leg that I do my right. Not exactly sure why. Maybe I was positioned wrong, but when going from Plane to Crescent Pose, I needed assistance on my right and popped up on my left. I'll have to pay attention more next time to see if it happens again and if it does, why. I didn't feel as rushed this time around either, except when Tony says, "We don't have time..." and "Gotta move." Then I felt a little rushed. I guess it's all mental. Over all felt really good and energized afterwards.
Then,
I went right into Mark Lauren's "You are Your Own Gym" program. I just
started with his first novice workout. Only four moves at four sets
each. The whole main workout was only 15 minutes long, 12 if you take
out the explanations. Plus 11 minutes if you add the warm up and cool
down. I did the whole thing so it was an extra 25 minutes or so. Nice
little program for just a little added boost. Easy moves, but became a
bit of a challenge by the final set.
To close out the week, I've got three tough workouts waiting. I almost did The Challenge today and X3 Yoga tomorrow, but again, decided to stick to the program as recommended and provided. I'll save the changes for my hybrid after everything is done.
Did a little something different with my Shakeology tonight. I added whole grain Muesli. Thought it would get a little grainy, but it was a nice surprise to see how much the taste was enhanced.
Have a great day!
To close out the week, I've got three tough workouts waiting. I almost did The Challenge today and X3 Yoga tomorrow, but again, decided to stick to the program as recommended and provided. I'll save the changes for my hybrid after everything is done.
Did a little something different with my Shakeology tonight. I added whole grain Muesli. Thought it would get a little grainy, but it was a nice surprise to see how much the taste was enhanced.
Have a great day!
Monday, May 19, 2014
May 19, P90X3, Week 2, Day 2
Agility X.
My left ankle was feeling a lot better so there was no issue with it today. I could go all out, as much as I could. This is the one workout where I wish I had more space. My "X points" have to be closer than I'd like them to be because of the limited space. So on moves like 8 Sprint 3 and 3.4 Run. I am basically doing something like the towel run in P90X's Plyo X routine. So it is a lot more high knees to compensate.
I love this workout, but it doesn't seem like an "Agility" workout to me. It still seems like a regular cardio workout. And man was it cardio. I totally got that vibe going. I was able to hang with most of the workout until the Scissor Kick Jumps. I kept up with the pause at the end of the line, but when I did it without that pause, I could only hang for about 15 seconds. Totally burned me out. Great move. Still can't get my legs that high though. Working on it.
My left ankle was feeling a lot better so there was no issue with it today. I could go all out, as much as I could. This is the one workout where I wish I had more space. My "X points" have to be closer than I'd like them to be because of the limited space. So on moves like 8 Sprint 3 and 3.4 Run. I am basically doing something like the towel run in P90X's Plyo X routine. So it is a lot more high knees to compensate.
I love this workout, but it doesn't seem like an "Agility" workout to me. It still seems like a regular cardio workout. And man was it cardio. I totally got that vibe going. I was able to hang with most of the workout until the Scissor Kick Jumps. I kept up with the pause at the end of the line, but when I did it without that pause, I could only hang for about 15 seconds. Totally burned me out. Great move. Still can't get my legs that high though. Working on it.
Over all a great workout, again with the Cold Start. Odd, because I
burned 60kcals (51 yesterday evening) on today's CS. I guess it's
because I worked out in the morning today.
Hope everyone is starting off their week well!
Hope everyone is starting off their week well!
Sunday, May 18, 2014
May 18, P90X3, Week 2, Day 1
Total Synergistics
This is such a great workout. I was able to hang with most of it. I was able to up my weights a little. Move 5, Crawly Plyo Push-ups, last week, I died with 10 seconds left, but this week, I was able to hang all the way to the end. But I was so winded, I needed to pause the DVD for a few extra moments to catch my breath before the next move. Then on the next move, I upped my weight from 8.75kgs to 20kgs. A little too light last week. This week I was dying by the last rep. Pretty much all the 8.75kgs I used last week, I upped to 10kgs this week. On move 15, Side Rise Punch, I went from 2kgs to 5kgs. That was tough. Especially since my dumbbells are kind of long, I had to angle them to get them under my arm. Oh also, on the Flying Warrior, 2kgs to 5kgs. I didn't want to take the time to switch plates on my dumbbells so I put a towel through 2 of my 2.5kg plates and had 5kgs in each hand. Worked nicely. Finally, on the final move, Warrior Squat Moon, I was able to keep my balance better, not tapping out as much as last week.
This is such a great workout. I was able to hang with most of it. I was able to up my weights a little. Move 5, Crawly Plyo Push-ups, last week, I died with 10 seconds left, but this week, I was able to hang all the way to the end. But I was so winded, I needed to pause the DVD for a few extra moments to catch my breath before the next move. Then on the next move, I upped my weight from 8.75kgs to 20kgs. A little too light last week. This week I was dying by the last rep. Pretty much all the 8.75kgs I used last week, I upped to 10kgs this week. On move 15, Side Rise Punch, I went from 2kgs to 5kgs. That was tough. Especially since my dumbbells are kind of long, I had to angle them to get them under my arm. Oh also, on the Flying Warrior, 2kgs to 5kgs. I didn't want to take the time to switch plates on my dumbbells so I put a towel through 2 of my 2.5kg plates and had 5kgs in each hand. Worked nicely. Finally, on the final move, Warrior Squat Moon, I was able to keep my balance better, not tapping out as much as last week.
Again, I started out with the Cold Start which I love! Total calorie burn was 619kcals. This is my first straight measurement of calories burned for this workout because I did the fit test last week. But the Cold Start is three calories down from the last time I did it.
Vegan Chocolate Shakeology for dinner. Feeling good about my eating.
I'm still struggling with sleep hours. I'm going to get it though.
Oh, finally, the weather today was so weird. I felt so UN-motivated. But I think it was affecting everyone. I actually accidentally took a nap in the afternoon. Something I almost never do without some type of physical activity prior. But my Super energetic daughter also took a nap today after she got home. Something she never has done before, so I'm not beating myself up over it.
Over all, a good start to Week 2 of P90X3 and to my work week as well.
Vegan Chocolate Shakeology for dinner. Feeling good about my eating.
I'm still struggling with sleep hours. I'm going to get it though.
Oh, finally, the weather today was so weird. I felt so UN-motivated. But I think it was affecting everyone. I actually accidentally took a nap in the afternoon. Something I almost never do without some type of physical activity prior. But my Super energetic daughter also took a nap today after she got home. Something she never has done before, so I'm not beating myself up over it.
Over all, a good start to Week 2 of P90X3 and to my work week as well.
Friday, May 16, 2014
May 16, Week 1, P90X3, Day 6
The Warrior
This program keep blowing me away. I am happily surprised at every turn. Another workout where Tony had me clutching my knees for breath after each round. Those Super Burpees are Crazy! Then to follow it up with those Think Drills. First time around, I couldn't hang at that point. I had to pause the DVD and catch my breath.
It was nice to see the return of some of the balance work in this workout as well. It it very nice to see elements from P90X and X2 in X3. I added about 5-8 minutes to the workout for rewinding and leaning the new moves and catching my breath. Also, I decided to do the Cold Start whenever it was available. It was available today, so I did it. Only burned 54kcals with it, but I think it enhanced my calorie burn in the regular workout. Then with my personal cool down (some extra stretching and foam rolling) after the main program, I burned a total of 500kcals today.
But I am still a touch sore from The Challenge. Heading into my rest day, I look forward to just stretching and taking it easy. Tonight, Shakeology for dinner and then hopefully getting to bed early. That is still the biggest problem for me. I want to get at least 7 hours of sleep regularly by the end of the program. And hopefully that also become habitual.
Have a great weekend everyone!
This program keep blowing me away. I am happily surprised at every turn. Another workout where Tony had me clutching my knees for breath after each round. Those Super Burpees are Crazy! Then to follow it up with those Think Drills. First time around, I couldn't hang at that point. I had to pause the DVD and catch my breath.
It was nice to see the return of some of the balance work in this workout as well. It it very nice to see elements from P90X and X2 in X3. I added about 5-8 minutes to the workout for rewinding and leaning the new moves and catching my breath. Also, I decided to do the Cold Start whenever it was available. It was available today, so I did it. Only burned 54kcals with it, but I think it enhanced my calorie burn in the regular workout. Then with my personal cool down (some extra stretching and foam rolling) after the main program, I burned a total of 500kcals today.
But I am still a touch sore from The Challenge. Heading into my rest day, I look forward to just stretching and taking it easy. Tonight, Shakeology for dinner and then hopefully getting to bed early. That is still the biggest problem for me. I want to get at least 7 hours of sleep regularly by the end of the program. And hopefully that also become habitual.
Have a great weekend everyone!
May 14, Week 1, P90X3, Day 5
CVX (Cardio Vascular X-Treme)
First of all, I was wondering what CVX meant. I was hoping Tony would tell us what it stood for. If he did, I missed it. Can anyone tell me what it means?
Now to the workout. WOW, I have never done this type of cardio before. I mean, I have done certain moves with a weight, but never an entire workout with weight. It was easy at first, but again, about 15 minutes into the workout, I was contemplating putting the weight down, or at least grabbing a lighter dumbbell. And, there was one move in the second round, for which I did grab a lighter weight. But only one move.
First of all, I was wondering what CVX meant. I was hoping Tony would tell us what it stood for. If he did, I missed it. Can anyone tell me what it means?
Now to the workout. WOW, I have never done this type of cardio before. I mean, I have done certain moves with a weight, but never an entire workout with weight. It was easy at first, but again, about 15 minutes into the workout, I was contemplating putting the weight down, or at least grabbing a lighter dumbbell. And, there was one move in the second round, for which I did grab a lighter weight. But only one move.
Great workout, burned just under 500kcals.
Today, however, turned out to be a double workout day. In the morning, I played tennis. It was a great match from the start. I came roaring out of the gates. But I came a little undone later on. But closed it out in the end. It was also weird because we usually play 4+ sets, but we played a ton of deuces today in the second set and we only played just over 2 sets. I was striking the ball really well, but hit more than a few bad frame shots. Final score, 6-0, 6-3, 1-2.
Today, however, turned out to be a double workout day. In the morning, I played tennis. It was a great match from the start. I came roaring out of the gates. But I came a little undone later on. But closed it out in the end. It was also weird because we usually play 4+ sets, but we played a ton of deuces today in the second set and we only played just over 2 sets. I was striking the ball really well, but hit more than a few bad frame shots. Final score, 6-0, 6-3, 1-2.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
May 14, Week 1, P90X3, Day 4
The Challenge
Since the name was rather ambiguous I wasn't sure what to expect. Then I took out the worksheet and BOOM! PULL PUSH DAY! I haven't been doing a lot of pull ups so far so I was a little nervous. Setting a number on a whole workout was a new twist. I am used to setting numbers for individual moves, but for an entire workout. HOO YA!!
I set my numbers to 10 Pull/Chin ups and 20 push ups. I got through the first double round fine, but the last rounds, I had to split up the pull/chin ups into a a 6-4 split to get to 10. I hit 20 push ups every time, so I will probably to with 25 next time. The Burn Out was awesome. I did 10 sets of the 1-3 combo, doing Parallel grip pull ups and regular push ups.
Since the name was rather ambiguous I wasn't sure what to expect. Then I took out the worksheet and BOOM! PULL PUSH DAY! I haven't been doing a lot of pull ups so far so I was a little nervous. Setting a number on a whole workout was a new twist. I am used to setting numbers for individual moves, but for an entire workout. HOO YA!!
I set my numbers to 10 Pull/Chin ups and 20 push ups. I got through the first double round fine, but the last rounds, I had to split up the pull/chin ups into a a 6-4 split to get to 10. I hit 20 push ups every time, so I will probably to with 25 next time. The Burn Out was awesome. I did 10 sets of the 1-3 combo, doing Parallel grip pull ups and regular push ups.
Got a major pump and burned over 600kcals. It was a true challenge!
May 13, Week 1, P90X3, Day 3
X3 Yoga
This workout came just in time. I was especially busy today. Didn't get home till after 8pm and 30 min. was perfect. I was able to get in some playtime with my kids before they had to go back and hit the books for midterms. Got a little bit of a workout there, too.
X3 Yoga, What can I say about 30 minutes of yoga? The moves are great, I worked up a good sweat, but if I'm being totally honest, I felt that it was a bit rushed. On top of that, I don't know how to explain it, but it just seemed like something was missing. The atmosphere and feel are so different from X2 Yoga, which I LOVE! I mean, in X2 yoga, Tony really tried to set a calm atmosphere and tone to the workout, turning down the lights, the music, even the way he instructed. Everything was flowing just perfectly.
Finally, calorie burn was very different. I burned around 400kcals with X2 Yoga, only 156 with X3 yoga. Yes, I know, it's not a cardio workout, but I like to measure my calorie burn with all my workouts.
That being said, I really enjoyed it as a workout, but not necessarily as a Yoga session. I'm going to stick with the program though. It did show me how non-flexible I am on my right side, though. Need to bring it more!
This workout came just in time. I was especially busy today. Didn't get home till after 8pm and 30 min. was perfect. I was able to get in some playtime with my kids before they had to go back and hit the books for midterms. Got a little bit of a workout there, too.
X3 Yoga, What can I say about 30 minutes of yoga? The moves are great, I worked up a good sweat, but if I'm being totally honest, I felt that it was a bit rushed. On top of that, I don't know how to explain it, but it just seemed like something was missing. The atmosphere and feel are so different from X2 Yoga, which I LOVE! I mean, in X2 yoga, Tony really tried to set a calm atmosphere and tone to the workout, turning down the lights, the music, even the way he instructed. Everything was flowing just perfectly.
Finally, calorie burn was very different. I burned around 400kcals with X2 Yoga, only 156 with X3 yoga. Yes, I know, it's not a cardio workout, but I like to measure my calorie burn with all my workouts.
That being said, I really enjoyed it as a workout, but not necessarily as a Yoga session. I'm going to stick with the program though. It did show me how non-flexible I am on my right side, though. Need to bring it more!
Monday, May 12, 2014
May 12, Week 1, P90X3, Day 2, Agility X
Okay, second workout in is
Agility X and since I just finished Asylum, Vol. 2, for the second day
in a row, I'm thinking this would be another cake walk. For the second
day in a row, I was DEAD WRONG. Although I could hang for most of the
moves, by the end of each move, I was breathing like there was no
tomorrow. Heaving like dickens. And, On the last move, the Plyo Line
Push Up, I could not hang. I could only manage 4 plyo push ups before I needed Child's pose for a bit.
I have to quit thinking the workouts are easy and just take each day
one workout at a time, or else my butt is going to get kicked all over
the place.
This is the first day that I actually did only the workout. Actually, that's not true. I did do the Cold Start warm up. The 12 minute warm up burned 56kcals. Then again, I had to do a back up on some of the moves to get them down. So, the 30 minute workout actually took about 38 minutes. Plus a 12 minute cool down. Today's workout burned just over 600kcals. I was very happy with that. I'm thinking to do the Cold Start warm up every time I it's available.
Great workout today!
This is the first day that I actually did only the workout. Actually, that's not true. I did do the Cold Start warm up. The 12 minute warm up burned 56kcals. Then again, I had to do a back up on some of the moves to get them down. So, the 30 minute workout actually took about 38 minutes. Plus a 12 minute cool down. Today's workout burned just over 600kcals. I was very happy with that. I'm thinking to do the Cold Start warm up every time I it's available.
Great workout today!
Sunday, May 11, 2014
P90X3, Week 1, Day 1
I watched the introductory DVD, Did the Fit Test, and then did Total Synergistics. (There is a red wavy line under the word "Synergistics", is it not a word yet?)
Okay, I'll be honest, I was thinking, "30 minutes,HA! Piece of cake." Total Synergistics totally kicked my butt. I could not hang with about half the moves till the end of time, or I'd have to take a quick breather in the middle before finishing. Maybe I'm just making excuses, but maybe it was so hard because I just did the fit test and sort of burned out on those moves. Also, I had to take a little longer than the 30 minutes because I didn't know a lot of the moves. So I watched them do it, then went back and did it. I think I took an extra 10-15 minutes or so. But again, to tell the truth, It's a good thing because Tony was moving a lot faster than he has in the past programs (10 minutes trainer aside).
But Man, was I beat. I started my HRM when I started watching the Intro DVD and then stopped it after cooling down. A total of 2 hours and 11 minutes. I'm a little surprised at the Wowy gym, though. When I started the fit test, it only gave me 6 minutes to complete it. And for a lot of the moves, the book says, "rest 4/3/2 minutes". And believe me, I took those rests. Took a lot longer, with the rests to finish the fit test.
Here are my Fit Test results for Day 0:
Resting HR- 62
Pull ups- 16
Vert. Jump- 40 cm
Push ups- 45
Toe Touch Flex- 8 cm past my toes
Wall Squat- 2min. 6 sec.
Bicep Curls- 12 reps. 12kgs
In & Outs- 55
HR Max- 150, +1min.124, +2min. 111, +3min. 103, +4min. 97
By the way, I Loved the Shakeology commercial after the Total Synergistics workout. Tony was hilarious!
Okay, I'll be honest, I was thinking, "30 minutes,HA! Piece of cake." Total Synergistics totally kicked my butt. I could not hang with about half the moves till the end of time, or I'd have to take a quick breather in the middle before finishing. Maybe I'm just making excuses, but maybe it was so hard because I just did the fit test and sort of burned out on those moves. Also, I had to take a little longer than the 30 minutes because I didn't know a lot of the moves. So I watched them do it, then went back and did it. I think I took an extra 10-15 minutes or so. But again, to tell the truth, It's a good thing because Tony was moving a lot faster than he has in the past programs (10 minutes trainer aside).
But Man, was I beat. I started my HRM when I started watching the Intro DVD and then stopped it after cooling down. A total of 2 hours and 11 minutes. I'm a little surprised at the Wowy gym, though. When I started the fit test, it only gave me 6 minutes to complete it. And for a lot of the moves, the book says, "rest 4/3/2 minutes". And believe me, I took those rests. Took a lot longer, with the rests to finish the fit test.
Here are my Fit Test results for Day 0:
Resting HR- 62
Pull ups- 16
Vert. Jump- 40 cm
Push ups- 45
Toe Touch Flex- 8 cm past my toes
Wall Squat- 2min. 6 sec.
Bicep Curls- 12 reps. 12kgs
In & Outs- 55
HR Max- 150, +1min.124, +2min. 111, +3min. 103, +4min. 97
By the way, I Loved the Shakeology commercial after the Total Synergistics workout. Tony was hilarious!
New Fitness Journey Begins NOW!
Okay, I've been so bad about keeping this BLOG so I decided that as a part of my accountability regime, I'm going to post an entry into this blog every workout. I used to think that I had to write a ton of insightful stuff in order for my blog to be relevant, but I'm not going to think that way anymore. I'm just going to post my experiences and thoughts about each workout.
I am sitting at my computer in my workout clothes and not feeling very motivated. Not because I don't feel like working out. Rather, the weather, the temperature, the ash from the local volcano, the humidity, the atmospheric pressure, all that is making my body feel BLAHHHH. But I have been looking forward to P90X3 ever since I purchased it almost three months ago. I got it while in the middle of P90X2, and was tempted to right into it, but I decided to take a short break from Tony and do Insanity: Asylum, Vol.2. I just finished that last week, so now, it is P90X3 time!
A couple words about my set up. I have to do all my workouts in a small area and I have a double set of dumbbells 2x25kgs and 2x5kgs. I interchange the plates on them so I have a wide range of weights I can use. I have most of the other tools for working out as well.
For the past 3+ weeks, my right ankle has been a little gimpy, but I'm hoping that that wont be too much of an issue. I usually like to do each program I start straight as scheduled and nothing else, but from the looks of it, I might have a little extra since I play tennis and cycle. On the days that I do that, 30 min. workouts are fine. But on the days where I have only my DVD workouts, if I'm feeling good, I will augment the P90X3 workout with a short 20 minute, non-beachbody workout program by Mark Lauren, Your Body is Your Gym. That is my intention, anyway.
One thing that I am a little wary of is the time. For years, I have usually worked out anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 and a half hours. The idea of a 30 minute workout was awesome, but in doing the longer workouts, I also got a big calorie burn, averaging 1000 per workout. I am guessing I'm going to see a dip in that, probably down to 300-400kcal burn starting cold. I was all about the calorie burn, but I'm thinking I'm going to have to adjust my mind-set to fit the 30 minute workouts.
One last thing. I have had back problems for 20+ years. Two compressed disks in my spine and getting shorter by the day. I hope that my back doesn't become any sort of negative factor in my journey as well.
Enough stalling. Let's get to it. P90X3, HERE I COME!
I am sitting at my computer in my workout clothes and not feeling very motivated. Not because I don't feel like working out. Rather, the weather, the temperature, the ash from the local volcano, the humidity, the atmospheric pressure, all that is making my body feel BLAHHHH. But I have been looking forward to P90X3 ever since I purchased it almost three months ago. I got it while in the middle of P90X2, and was tempted to right into it, but I decided to take a short break from Tony and do Insanity: Asylum, Vol.2. I just finished that last week, so now, it is P90X3 time!
A couple words about my set up. I have to do all my workouts in a small area and I have a double set of dumbbells 2x25kgs and 2x5kgs. I interchange the plates on them so I have a wide range of weights I can use. I have most of the other tools for working out as well.
For the past 3+ weeks, my right ankle has been a little gimpy, but I'm hoping that that wont be too much of an issue. I usually like to do each program I start straight as scheduled and nothing else, but from the looks of it, I might have a little extra since I play tennis and cycle. On the days that I do that, 30 min. workouts are fine. But on the days where I have only my DVD workouts, if I'm feeling good, I will augment the P90X3 workout with a short 20 minute, non-beachbody workout program by Mark Lauren, Your Body is Your Gym. That is my intention, anyway.
One thing that I am a little wary of is the time. For years, I have usually worked out anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 and a half hours. The idea of a 30 minute workout was awesome, but in doing the longer workouts, I also got a big calorie burn, averaging 1000 per workout. I am guessing I'm going to see a dip in that, probably down to 300-400kcal burn starting cold. I was all about the calorie burn, but I'm thinking I'm going to have to adjust my mind-set to fit the 30 minute workouts.
One last thing. I have had back problems for 20+ years. Two compressed disks in my spine and getting shorter by the day. I hope that my back doesn't become any sort of negative factor in my journey as well.
Enough stalling. Let's get to it. P90X3, HERE I COME!
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