Week 1, Day 4, Tennis + PiYo: Strength- Sweat + Tai Cheng-Full Flow.
I was tempted to put house work in that intro list, because I did over two hours of wall cleaning with a high pressure water gun. My hand was killing me pulling the trigger. A lot of squats to focus on the low parts and calf extensions to get the high places on the wall.
Tennis was a bit of a bust for two reasons: 1. My hand was so tired from holding the water gun earlier, I could barely grip my racket. 2. On the way to the court it started to rain a bit, but we kept going. The weather held for about 30 minutes. It was windy, and gusty, and ash and sand kept blowing up into my face. But when the rain started falling in sheets and it started to hail, we called it a day after only about 30 minutes. Plus, it was so cold that I just couldn't get warmed up. Didn't get much of a calorie burn, less than 200kcals. When I got home, I relaxed a bit, had some lunch, and then I did my regular workout.
When I started today's routine, I called it a SWEAT FEST to end 2014. But I said "Sweat Fest" tongue in cheek. I didn't think it was going to be that tough considering the previous two routines were only 20 minutes or so and I burned only about 100kcals on them each. OH MAN WAS I WRONG AND RIGHT!!! A lot tougher than I thought, but not from the start. It sort of crept up on me and then at one point, I was like, Oh my goodness, I'm DYING HERE!!!!. And yes, Major sweat fest on this routine. My legs were like burning rubber by the second to last set of those PiYo Push-ups. I could barely do the sumo squats. But I hung in there. Great workout! Plus, these routines are a great bonus stretch.
I stretched out for my splits as usual, but I wanted to push the time a bit. So I increased the hold time by about 10 seconds per position. Doing center splits, at one point, I sort of lost track of time and when I looked, I was lower than I had ever been. But once I noticed how far down I was, the pain made itself known and I had to pull up a bit.
Still making discoveries with my flow. I had always started my flow in the same direction for both left and right. I would be okay with the left, but I always ran out of space on the right. So, on a whim, I turned 180 degrees and started in the opposite direction for the right, and BANG just enough space. I did a moderate to fast speed today, and this was the best and cleanest I've done it so far. I only missed a pointed toes a couple times. But the flow felt really good.
What a great way to end the year, a good sweat, a good stretch, and a great flow!
Happy New Year! Although a minimal number of people read this blog, I will do my best to be there for anyone who needs me! I hope that I can inspire someone as so many have inspired me. Thank you, all! Let's BLAST into 2015 together!!!
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Week 1, Day 3, Tennis + PiYo: Strength- Define: Upper Body + Tai Cheng-Full Flow.
Week 1, Day 3, Tennis + PiYo: Strength- Define: Upper Body + Tai Cheng-Full Flow.
BUSY DAY! Woke up and my son wanted to play tennis so I had Shakeology for breakfast, got ready and we went to play. Conditions were very harsh, gusting wind and cold. No game, just points and drills for my son who has a tournament from the 4th of January. For some reason, my glute started tightening up and made it hard to move. But I push through the pain for a long as possible. The last 20 minutes of our 2 hours, I was in some serious pain. Mobility was way down. But I burned a good 900+ kcals.
When we got home, my daughter wanted to go to the park and do some RipStiking so I went to the park with her and ran along side her as she rode her Ripstik. She got a lot better and was cruising around. I got a good run in, about 1.5km.
Finally when I got home, I was able to do my PiYo. Again, shorter than I had anticipated, and not quite the burn I am used to with regular "Upper Body" but I was able to work my shoulders, arms and core enough to get a bit of a sweat on. I just have to clear my expectations and go with the program. I felt the same way when I started Tai Cheng and once I let go of expectations, the program really took off for me.
I was a bit tired, so I left off the weights today. It is not like I'm running, but in this particular program, there are only 4 routines per week so I have three off days. So I have decided to do a 2w-1o-2w-2o week for that program, and keep the 6 day week for PiYo. It's just the beginning of a new journey so I'm still working out all the logistics of it all and meshing the programs with my schedule. Plus since I'm on vacation, I won't be on a regular schedule for another week so I'm just getting through until vacation ends. The only thing I'm sure of is that, barring unforeseen circumstances, I will not miss any workouts.
A lot of good exercise today! I burned over 1500kcals today!!!
BUSY DAY! Woke up and my son wanted to play tennis so I had Shakeology for breakfast, got ready and we went to play. Conditions were very harsh, gusting wind and cold. No game, just points and drills for my son who has a tournament from the 4th of January. For some reason, my glute started tightening up and made it hard to move. But I push through the pain for a long as possible. The last 20 minutes of our 2 hours, I was in some serious pain. Mobility was way down. But I burned a good 900+ kcals.
When we got home, my daughter wanted to go to the park and do some RipStiking so I went to the park with her and ran along side her as she rode her Ripstik. She got a lot better and was cruising around. I got a good run in, about 1.5km.
Finally when I got home, I was able to do my PiYo. Again, shorter than I had anticipated, and not quite the burn I am used to with regular "Upper Body" but I was able to work my shoulders, arms and core enough to get a bit of a sweat on. I just have to clear my expectations and go with the program. I felt the same way when I started Tai Cheng and once I let go of expectations, the program really took off for me.
I was a bit tired, so I left off the weights today. It is not like I'm running, but in this particular program, there are only 4 routines per week so I have three off days. So I have decided to do a 2w-1o-2w-2o week for that program, and keep the 6 day week for PiYo. It's just the beginning of a new journey so I'm still working out all the logistics of it all and meshing the programs with my schedule. Plus since I'm on vacation, I won't be on a regular schedule for another week so I'm just getting through until vacation ends. The only thing I'm sure of is that, barring unforeseen circumstances, I will not miss any workouts.
A lot of good exercise today! I burned over 1500kcals today!!!
Monday, December 29, 2014
Week 1, Day 2, PiYo: Strength- Define: Lower Body + Tai Cheng-Full Flow + Weight lifting.
Week 1, Day 2, PiYo: Strength- Define: Lower Body + Tai Cheng-Full Flow + Weight lifting.
Today was a LAZY LAZY day. I really didn't do anything today until my workout so today, I was depending on my workout to get my butt moving, and it did!
I'm still using other programs as reference points, so when I see, Lower Body, I think, weighted squats, lunges, etc. But this wasn't that bad. I was a little surprised that it was only 20 minutes. I feel the benefits of Tai Cheng because my hip flexor range was a lot bigger then I remember it being with yoga moves. But I had to push hard all the same. I'm still really weak with the down-dog splits. I can only get my leg parallel with the floor. Not like the team on the program. I pushed so hard my glute almost cramped several times but I quickly backed off just in time. Calorie burn was rather low, only 106kcals.
I went right into the full body weightlifting for about 30 minutes. The program is still Mike Chang's Sixpack Abs Shortcut program. It was a good, really good burn.
Before the Tai Cheng flow, I stretched out. Taking out the middle part of the Neural Reboot 4 starting from the Slow Knee Bends to the Sitting Hamstring stretch. Yes, I got the splits and I extended the time by three. I was able to hit my low mark quickly and wiggle down a bit further. The flow was also very good today. But instead of going for speed, I went for form and breath. I went a lot slower than previous days to solidify the moves more in my head.
Great workout today.
Today was a LAZY LAZY day. I really didn't do anything today until my workout so today, I was depending on my workout to get my butt moving, and it did!
I'm still using other programs as reference points, so when I see, Lower Body, I think, weighted squats, lunges, etc. But this wasn't that bad. I was a little surprised that it was only 20 minutes. I feel the benefits of Tai Cheng because my hip flexor range was a lot bigger then I remember it being with yoga moves. But I had to push hard all the same. I'm still really weak with the down-dog splits. I can only get my leg parallel with the floor. Not like the team on the program. I pushed so hard my glute almost cramped several times but I quickly backed off just in time. Calorie burn was rather low, only 106kcals.
I went right into the full body weightlifting for about 30 minutes. The program is still Mike Chang's Sixpack Abs Shortcut program. It was a good, really good burn.
Before the Tai Cheng flow, I stretched out. Taking out the middle part of the Neural Reboot 4 starting from the Slow Knee Bends to the Sitting Hamstring stretch. Yes, I got the splits and I extended the time by three. I was able to hit my low mark quickly and wiggle down a bit further. The flow was also very good today. But instead of going for speed, I went for form and breath. I went a lot slower than previous days to solidify the moves more in my head.
Great workout today.
Week 1, Day 1, PiYo: Strength- Align:The Fundamentals + Tai Cheng-Full Flow + Weight lifting.
Week 1, Day 1, PiYo: Strength- Align:The Fundamentals + Tai Cheng-Full Flow + Weight lifting.
Was really busy today, a lot of housework inside and out. Plus a call to my parents in the US. But I was excited about today because I will be starting a new journey today. PiYo is the flavor of the month and today was just the beginning.
Nothing strenuous today, just the intro program. It has been a while since I've done any type of yoga or yoga move so this was going back to the beginning for me. Nice to get a little done. Doing this program right after P90X3, T25 and Tai Cheng, I felt is was okay for me to go straight into the Strength calendar, so I am doing that program now. I'm really excited about this program. I was intrigued by some of the new moves she introduced today. I was happy that I was able to actually do them with a good range of motion. Here we go!
I didn't do the Neural Reboot today, but I did do some of the lower body stretching before getting into the splits. I was VERY happy because I was able to go right to my previous mark. Got to maintain that level a while before I go down a little further.
Full flow was good. For some reason, some really bad brain farts hit me today, Like I would forget which brush knee I was on and skip a whole sequence of moves before realizing it then, I'd just start over. But I ended up doing the flow rather well. Getting ready for a video session to tape the whole flow.
Calorie count was rather low, so I decided to do a little extra resistance training. I chose to try one of those internet trainer programs that I've been seeing everywhere. Has anyone ever heard of six pack abs shortcut? I tried day 1 of that program and it was... interesting. It is also a 60 day program that I haven't decided to stick with. I'll see what PiYo does to me then I'll decide. But I did get a good burn and got a little sweat on from Mike Chang's workout. Very interesting theory he's got regarding the "After Burn" theory. Anyone hear of it? We'll see where this goes.
Come join me on my new journey!
Was really busy today, a lot of housework inside and out. Plus a call to my parents in the US. But I was excited about today because I will be starting a new journey today. PiYo is the flavor of the month and today was just the beginning.
Nothing strenuous today, just the intro program. It has been a while since I've done any type of yoga or yoga move so this was going back to the beginning for me. Nice to get a little done. Doing this program right after P90X3, T25 and Tai Cheng, I felt is was okay for me to go straight into the Strength calendar, so I am doing that program now. I'm really excited about this program. I was intrigued by some of the new moves she introduced today. I was happy that I was able to actually do them with a good range of motion. Here we go!
I didn't do the Neural Reboot today, but I did do some of the lower body stretching before getting into the splits. I was VERY happy because I was able to go right to my previous mark. Got to maintain that level a while before I go down a little further.
Full flow was good. For some reason, some really bad brain farts hit me today, Like I would forget which brush knee I was on and skip a whole sequence of moves before realizing it then, I'd just start over. But I ended up doing the flow rather well. Getting ready for a video session to tape the whole flow.
Calorie count was rather low, so I decided to do a little extra resistance training. I chose to try one of those internet trainer programs that I've been seeing everywhere. Has anyone ever heard of six pack abs shortcut? I tried day 1 of that program and it was... interesting. It is also a 60 day program that I haven't decided to stick with. I'll see what PiYo does to me then I'll decide. But I did get a good burn and got a little sweat on from Mike Chang's workout. Very interesting theory he's got regarding the "After Burn" theory. Anyone hear of it? We'll see where this goes.
Come join me on my new journey!
Friday, December 26, 2014
Wk 14, D6. T25-Gamma: Speed 3.0 + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Wk 14, D6. T25-Gamma: Speed 3.0 + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Totally went for it today on this routine. I went all out and lasted the full 25 minutes. I started to feel a little bit of a thing in my non-braced knee, so I tried to keep that knee a bit safer and continued to push. I sweat buckets and since it is so chilly now, it was good for me to keep on moving or I would have caught cold. Hehehe. But seriously, I really went all out and feel I'm reaping the benefits of the hard work. I feel stronger and more agile than every before. I'm not going to miss this program much because I will be going through it again, once I'm done PiYo and am back to my hybrid. This program will definitely be integrated into that. The newest thing was that, for the first time ever in the last 14 weeks, I did a routine on "LOUD" instead of normal, and man was it loud. So loud that I could barely hear Shaun T's cues. Not a big fan of LOUD, but I was always wondering what it was and I had to try it at least once during the official program.
Pushed really hard on the splits today, and I think I go a bit lower than yesterday, or at least I got to the same mark as yesterday. I'm also holding them a little longer than Dr. Cheng does in the DVD. Only about a couple minutes more total. My wife saw me and she remarked, "You look like you're in pain." to which I responded, "I am." I am going to get these splits by the end of 2015, That is my resolution for the New Year. I'm going to keep working on it until I get it. So if anyone has any advice on the best way to develop the splits, I'm open to all advice!
I went to the more open area to do the flow today but it was still just about one pace too narrow. I did close to 20 flows at all different angles. First, I did both sides at 90degree angles, straight and parallel to the walls. But then I decided to test myself and started at like a 70degree angle to the wall and I couldn't use the wall as a reference, and just as I suspected, I ended up in a way different place. I'm not yet doing the flow naturally. Rather, I'm using reference points to determine my locations and points. I know what direction I should be looking and standing from my starting point, but was nowhere close. More work needed.
In the morning, I took my daughter to the park to try out her new Xmas present, a Ripstik and while she was ripping around I was trying muscle ups. The second time I tried it, I got 4/5 the way up, but couldn't get all the way up. After that, it was a bust. I tried the kipping ones, and assisted ones with a jump, but my form must be off, because I keep going under the bar and can't get out from that position. I am able to get the bar up to my chest, but I can push out and up because by that time, my legs are jutting forward and I can't hold position. Plus the bar was freezing and it hurt my hands. If anyone has any advice for muscles ups, I'd love to hear it.
Well, this officially ends my experience with the full program of Focus T25: Alpha, Beta, Gamma. and the 13+1 week of Tai Cheng. From the day after tomorrow, I will be starting a new journey, I'll be embarking on the PiYo Train and instead of keeping solely on that program, I'll keep on doing the splits training, the Tai Cheng flow, and when I have time, an extra core/abs workout.
Thank you all for your support and kind words of encouragement. I hope I, in some small way was able to encourage you, too.
I'll see you on the other side! May you all have a Happy New Year! Let's Crash through to our goals and keep on keeping on!
Totally went for it today on this routine. I went all out and lasted the full 25 minutes. I started to feel a little bit of a thing in my non-braced knee, so I tried to keep that knee a bit safer and continued to push. I sweat buckets and since it is so chilly now, it was good for me to keep on moving or I would have caught cold. Hehehe. But seriously, I really went all out and feel I'm reaping the benefits of the hard work. I feel stronger and more agile than every before. I'm not going to miss this program much because I will be going through it again, once I'm done PiYo and am back to my hybrid. This program will definitely be integrated into that. The newest thing was that, for the first time ever in the last 14 weeks, I did a routine on "LOUD" instead of normal, and man was it loud. So loud that I could barely hear Shaun T's cues. Not a big fan of LOUD, but I was always wondering what it was and I had to try it at least once during the official program.
Pushed really hard on the splits today, and I think I go a bit lower than yesterday, or at least I got to the same mark as yesterday. I'm also holding them a little longer than Dr. Cheng does in the DVD. Only about a couple minutes more total. My wife saw me and she remarked, "You look like you're in pain." to which I responded, "I am." I am going to get these splits by the end of 2015, That is my resolution for the New Year. I'm going to keep working on it until I get it. So if anyone has any advice on the best way to develop the splits, I'm open to all advice!
I went to the more open area to do the flow today but it was still just about one pace too narrow. I did close to 20 flows at all different angles. First, I did both sides at 90degree angles, straight and parallel to the walls. But then I decided to test myself and started at like a 70degree angle to the wall and I couldn't use the wall as a reference, and just as I suspected, I ended up in a way different place. I'm not yet doing the flow naturally. Rather, I'm using reference points to determine my locations and points. I know what direction I should be looking and standing from my starting point, but was nowhere close. More work needed.
In the morning, I took my daughter to the park to try out her new Xmas present, a Ripstik and while she was ripping around I was trying muscle ups. The second time I tried it, I got 4/5 the way up, but couldn't get all the way up. After that, it was a bust. I tried the kipping ones, and assisted ones with a jump, but my form must be off, because I keep going under the bar and can't get out from that position. I am able to get the bar up to my chest, but I can push out and up because by that time, my legs are jutting forward and I can't hold position. Plus the bar was freezing and it hurt my hands. If anyone has any advice for muscles ups, I'd love to hear it.
Well, this officially ends my experience with the full program of Focus T25: Alpha, Beta, Gamma. and the 13+1 week of Tai Cheng. From the day after tomorrow, I will be starting a new journey, I'll be embarking on the PiYo Train and instead of keeping solely on that program, I'll keep on doing the splits training, the Tai Cheng flow, and when I have time, an extra core/abs workout.
Thank you all for your support and kind words of encouragement. I hope I, in some small way was able to encourage you, too.
I'll see you on the other side! May you all have a Happy New Year! Let's Crash through to our goals and keep on keeping on!
Wk 14, D5. T25-Gamma: Extreme Circuit + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Wk 14, D5. T25-Gamma: Extreme Circuit + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
I was really busy today, but not with "Xmasy" stuff. Kids still had school so I was cleaning and doing house stuff to prepare for New Years. No Spring cleaning here, it's year end cleaning here! So I didn't get around to doing my workout until mid-afternoon.
I really wanted to NAIL this workout since it is the last strength of the program, however it was not to be. I totally blasted through the first three circuits in good form, but I was spent by the fourth circuit and I had to take some mid-set breaks and take a few extra seconds during transitions between moves. But this is one routine that will make it into my future hybrid so I'll definitely see it again. I hope I can say that "I NAILED IT!!!" soon.
Splits were pushed hard, and I feel as though I made some progress today and I went a bit lower today than I did yesterday. I was very happy, but with groans and moans and heavy breathing from the pain of the splits. One good thing is that I was able to get right to my mark from the outset, then I pushed it. It took a little doing, but I got there quicker than I have before. Baby steps!
The flow was good, and I was going with Dr. Cheng's pace today. Felt good, then suddenly brain farts started to creep in and I was confusing moves and making wrong transitions. I was like, "WHAT IS GOING ON???" So I just stopped, closed my eyes and focused on visualizing the flow. I started off slowly, but I was able to get back to pace and perform the flow well. That was weird, but I got through it somehow.
Merry Christmas, Everyone! May you all emulate the reason for the season!
I was really busy today, but not with "Xmasy" stuff. Kids still had school so I was cleaning and doing house stuff to prepare for New Years. No Spring cleaning here, it's year end cleaning here! So I didn't get around to doing my workout until mid-afternoon.
I really wanted to NAIL this workout since it is the last strength of the program, however it was not to be. I totally blasted through the first three circuits in good form, but I was spent by the fourth circuit and I had to take some mid-set breaks and take a few extra seconds during transitions between moves. But this is one routine that will make it into my future hybrid so I'll definitely see it again. I hope I can say that "I NAILED IT!!!" soon.
Splits were pushed hard, and I feel as though I made some progress today and I went a bit lower today than I did yesterday. I was very happy, but with groans and moans and heavy breathing from the pain of the splits. One good thing is that I was able to get right to my mark from the outset, then I pushed it. It took a little doing, but I got there quicker than I have before. Baby steps!
The flow was good, and I was going with Dr. Cheng's pace today. Felt good, then suddenly brain farts started to creep in and I was confusing moves and making wrong transitions. I was like, "WHAT IS GOING ON???" So I just stopped, closed my eyes and focused on visualizing the flow. I started off slowly, but I was able to get back to pace and perform the flow well. That was weird, but I got through it somehow.
Merry Christmas, Everyone! May you all emulate the reason for the season!
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Wk 14, D4. T25-Gamma: The Pyramid + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Wk 14, D4. T25-Gamma: The Pyramid + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Mid-morning workout today. Since it's Xmas eve, I wanted to get it out of the way so I could be free to play with my family once everyone got home.
Final time for this routine, and I was determined to do it as a Straight 25, and... NAILED IT!!! But I paid for it in spades! I also wanted to keep good form so I kept telling myself to do just that on all the bicep moves, and the other strength moves. I didn't get dizzy or light headed during the pike ups this time like I did last week so I was able to power through the time I was stopped previously. I am very thankful for the well placed cardio moves in the midst of the resistance moves. Totally saved me and I was able to recover as I did those cardio moves.
There were a few moves that for some reason, Shaun T slows the pace, but I wanted to push it so I pushed the pace and a few times ended earlier than Shaun T did. A couple times, I did extra reps, and a few times I took advantage of the early finish and shook out my extremities.
The reboot splits were good today, again, I was able to push past my mark and I believe this is the deepest I've gone down on my splits since starting the training. Unlike yesterday, no tingling or numbness in my feet. I feel that is a good thing. My flows were also very solid.
Happy Xmas Eve, everyone!
The reboot splits were good today, again, I was able to push past my mark and I believe this is the deepest I've gone down on my splits since starting the training. Unlike yesterday, no tingling or numbness in my feet. I feel that is a good thing. My flows were also very solid.
Happy Xmas Eve, everyone!
Wk 14, D3. T25-Core Speed + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Wk 14, D3. T25-Core Speed + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Evening workout today. Busy with lots of things and had not time to get it in any earlier.
Very happy with today's workout. First time to Nail this routine. I usually need to stop for a break after the first circuit, but this time I was able to push through. The only modification I had to do was in the beginning of the level 2, first move when my arches, for some reason, started to seize up and instead of doing the agility move, I had to just do high knees for a few reps until the pain went away. Once that worked itself out, I totally nailed the routine. Got an awesome sweat on and an awesome shake. Meaning, my legs were shaking after the routine. My heart rate stayed high for longer than it has in the past with a cardio workout. Everything was just routine after that.
Evening workout today. Busy with lots of things and had not time to get it in any earlier.
Very happy with today's workout. First time to Nail this routine. I usually need to stop for a break after the first circuit, but this time I was able to push through. The only modification I had to do was in the beginning of the level 2, first move when my arches, for some reason, started to seize up and instead of doing the agility move, I had to just do high knees for a few reps until the pain went away. Once that worked itself out, I totally nailed the routine. Got an awesome sweat on and an awesome shake. Meaning, my legs were shaking after the routine. My heart rate stayed high for longer than it has in the past with a cardio workout. Everything was just routine after that.
I really pushed
passed my limit on the splits today, and for the first time, my feet
started to really tingle and numb up during the splits. I also was
forced to move a lot slower in transition. But I was able to a little
past my mark.
Really awesome flows today. Again, the discrepancy between my right side and left made itself known today. I am right handed, but in this instance, my left side is dominant. I just do much better when starting left then right. I wonder why?
Great workout today!
Really awesome flows today. Again, the discrepancy between my right side and left made itself known today. I am right handed, but in this instance, my left side is dominant. I just do much better when starting left then right. I wonder why?
Great workout today!
Monday, December 22, 2014
Wk 14, D2. T25-Gamma: Rip'T Up+ Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Wk 14, D2. T25-Gamma: Rip'T Up+ Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Today was an odd day. I went to work early and came home early to do my workout. (Nice to have flex-time when I have no class.) But my meal schedule was all messed up. By the time I got home I hadn't eaten for a good three hours and was a bit hungry, but if I ate something, I would have to wait to do my workout or else I'd cramp up during the workout. So I decided to do it hungry and see what happens.
T25 was awesome! My upper body was burning all over. I made it all the way through the alternating Shimmy, but had to take a break before the double shimmy. After that, I had to take a few more breaks. I pushed my shoulders to their limit, and way past failure. OUCH & BURN! Biceps also burned out. It was good to know that I could push beyond my limits. I was afraid I was starting to plateau, but not this workout.
I'm just going with Tai Cheng until I have no time. The Reboot was fine, but I did it without the disk and when I got to the splits, I about doubled the time and I was able to inch down and got lower than ever before while doing this program. I really wanted to push the limits today!
I decided to try to push the flow to the limit as well. My best time thus far has been 1 minute 10 seconds. But in the "Putting it All Together" section, Dr. Cheng does the whole flow in 55 seconds. So I started when he started and went for it. The first time, I kept doing Phoenix Tail instead of Ward Off. I had to restart the right side about three times before I got through the first sequence. Then I was second guessing my transitions. But after several resets, I finally got through it. I was able to go through on both sides with Dr. Cheng. I also got down to 50 seconds with good form. I was able to just do the flow without thinking and nailed all the transitions. Totally nailed the flow. Now, I just wish I could have a one-on-one session with a master so he could advise me on my weak points.
Great workout today!
Today was an odd day. I went to work early and came home early to do my workout. (Nice to have flex-time when I have no class.) But my meal schedule was all messed up. By the time I got home I hadn't eaten for a good three hours and was a bit hungry, but if I ate something, I would have to wait to do my workout or else I'd cramp up during the workout. So I decided to do it hungry and see what happens.
T25 was awesome! My upper body was burning all over. I made it all the way through the alternating Shimmy, but had to take a break before the double shimmy. After that, I had to take a few more breaks. I pushed my shoulders to their limit, and way past failure. OUCH & BURN! Biceps also burned out. It was good to know that I could push beyond my limits. I was afraid I was starting to plateau, but not this workout.
I'm just going with Tai Cheng until I have no time. The Reboot was fine, but I did it without the disk and when I got to the splits, I about doubled the time and I was able to inch down and got lower than ever before while doing this program. I really wanted to push the limits today!
I decided to try to push the flow to the limit as well. My best time thus far has been 1 minute 10 seconds. But in the "Putting it All Together" section, Dr. Cheng does the whole flow in 55 seconds. So I started when he started and went for it. The first time, I kept doing Phoenix Tail instead of Ward Off. I had to restart the right side about three times before I got through the first sequence. Then I was second guessing my transitions. But after several resets, I finally got through it. I was able to go through on both sides with Dr. Cheng. I also got down to 50 seconds with good form. I was able to just do the flow without thinking and nailed all the transitions. Totally nailed the flow. Now, I just wish I could have a one-on-one session with a master so he could advise me on my weak points.
Great workout today!
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Wk 14, D1. T25-Gamma: Extreme Circuit+ Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Wk 14, D1. T25-Gamma: Extreme Circuit+ Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Week 14 is the final week of T25! Got to kick it up a notch...
Started off with a BANG! But my biceps burned out really quick. I don't know what the deal is. I do not have any muscular endurance to speak of. Just using 6kgs in each hand, I was burned out at 18 reps and was able to just squeak out about 4 more past that. Biceps were burning during the lifting, but the burn disappeared within moments. Very different from P90X pump when I would do just 8-12 reps with up to 15kgs but the burn and pump lasted for about an hour. Can anyone tell me why that is? But either way, today, after the first circuit, I was taking little breaks between moves, and eventually added about 10 minutes to the routine. Kind of bummed about that.
Week 14 is the final week of T25! Got to kick it up a notch...
Started off with a BANG! But my biceps burned out really quick. I don't know what the deal is. I do not have any muscular endurance to speak of. Just using 6kgs in each hand, I was burned out at 18 reps and was able to just squeak out about 4 more past that. Biceps were burning during the lifting, but the burn disappeared within moments. Very different from P90X pump when I would do just 8-12 reps with up to 15kgs but the burn and pump lasted for about an hour. Can anyone tell me why that is? But either way, today, after the first circuit, I was taking little breaks between moves, and eventually added about 10 minutes to the routine. Kind of bummed about that.
Yes, Tai Cheng is finished, but I want to continue splits training so I
did a truncated version of the Neural reboot and got into the splits.
OUCH!!! I also continued to do the flow. Felt very good today and didn't
have too many brain farts.
Great workout today.
Great workout today.
Wk 13, D7. Tai Cheng: Full Flow.
Wk 13, D7. Tai Cheng: Full Flow.
Today was my usual day off, but I wanted to do some stretching and the full flow. So in the evening, I went to a larger area and tried stretching out. OUCH! Without the whole Neural Reboot sequence, going right for splits is very painful. The flow went very well. Still flubbing up more than I would expect, but I'll keep at it.
Today was my usual day off, but I wanted to do some stretching and the full flow. So in the evening, I went to a larger area and tried stretching out. OUCH! Without the whole Neural Reboot sequence, going right for splits is very painful. The flow went very well. Still flubbing up more than I would expect, but I'll keep at it.
Friday, December 19, 2014
Wk 13, D6. T25- Core Speed + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Wk 13, D6. T25- Core Speed + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Shakeology in the morning before today's workout was perfection. Gave me the energy needed to get through this tough routine. It was C-C-COLD!!! I felt it at the beginning and I was pushing hard to keep up, especially during the burpee moves and moves like the L-squat. But after Level One, I warmed up and NAILED IT!!! Great way to finish out the week. Very happy with today's routine. However, I still had a little bit of an issue with my arches. I don't know if it is the cold, or something else, but they started to tighten up again at the beginning, but loosened up after warming up.
TAI CHENG IS COMPLETE!!!
I did Neural Reboot 4 and made a little progress with the splits. It feels more like my joint mobility that is preventing me from going further down than tight muscles or ligaments. But I guess I'll have to assume that it's not and keep pushing till I get down.
Today's flow was good. I tried to shorten up my front stance a bit to stay within my space, but my space is just too small for a full flow with the ideal range of motion on my stances. Although I'm finished with the program, I will definitely continue doing most of the reboot stretches and of course continue the flow as often as I can, and where ever I can. I'll give a comprehensive review of the program later this week, but I can honestly say that I loved this program. Reasons to follow.
Super way to start my day, and SUPERER way to end my week.
Shakeology in the morning before today's workout was perfection. Gave me the energy needed to get through this tough routine. It was C-C-COLD!!! I felt it at the beginning and I was pushing hard to keep up, especially during the burpee moves and moves like the L-squat. But after Level One, I warmed up and NAILED IT!!! Great way to finish out the week. Very happy with today's routine. However, I still had a little bit of an issue with my arches. I don't know if it is the cold, or something else, but they started to tighten up again at the beginning, but loosened up after warming up.
TAI CHENG IS COMPLETE!!!
I did Neural Reboot 4 and made a little progress with the splits. It feels more like my joint mobility that is preventing me from going further down than tight muscles or ligaments. But I guess I'll have to assume that it's not and keep pushing till I get down.
Today's flow was good. I tried to shorten up my front stance a bit to stay within my space, but my space is just too small for a full flow with the ideal range of motion on my stances. Although I'm finished with the program, I will definitely continue doing most of the reboot stretches and of course continue the flow as often as I can, and where ever I can. I'll give a comprehensive review of the program later this week, but I can honestly say that I loved this program. Reasons to follow.
Super way to start my day, and SUPERER way to end my week.
Wk 13, D5. T25-Gamma: The Pyramid + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Wk 13, D5. T25-Gamma: The Pyramid + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Felt good this morning. Routine started out as normal, a few minutes of moderate cardio to warm up, then it hit. For some odd reason, my arches started to tighten up and I was afraid that I would cramp up. I had to let it up a bit until they started to loosen up. I was fortunate to be doing this particular routine because it allowed my arches to loosen up through the moves. It was a great workout and despite the near cramping in my arches, I was able to get a hold of it, subdue it, and nail it. I only took one short break and that was after the Pike ups. Again, I really went for it and pushed hard not to take a mid-set break, but for some reason I got a little light headed and had to take a drink and breath. But I was able to get over it and kill it from there.
Felt good this morning. Routine started out as normal, a few minutes of moderate cardio to warm up, then it hit. For some odd reason, my arches started to tighten up and I was afraid that I would cramp up. I had to let it up a bit until they started to loosen up. I was fortunate to be doing this particular routine because it allowed my arches to loosen up through the moves. It was a great workout and despite the near cramping in my arches, I was able to get a hold of it, subdue it, and nail it. I only took one short break and that was after the Pike ups. Again, I really went for it and pushed hard not to take a mid-set break, but for some reason I got a little light headed and had to take a drink and breath. But I was able to get over it and kill it from there.
I lost some stretch on my splits so I had to push harder just to get
back to my mark. The next to final flow was good, but I realized that I
started to develop some bad habits to fit in my small space. I need to
flow in a better and bigger place so I can keep my form steady.
It was a great workout.
It was a great workout.
Wk 13, D4. T25-Gamma: Extreme Circuit + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Wk 13, D4. T25-Gamma: Extreme Circuit + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Had a busy day and the workout really helped me unwind. But I must have been way off my game because I was getting winded really easily but recovered quickly. It was odd, but I found it necessary to take a couple mid-set breaks on the pull-up bar moves. Also, I wanted to do even reps on both sides so I went over-time by a few seconds on several moves and had to rewind to get the full time of the next move. I ended up adding about 10 minutes to the routine. Today WAS EXTREME!
Had a busy day and the workout really helped me unwind. But I must have been way off my game because I was getting winded really easily but recovered quickly. It was odd, but I found it necessary to take a couple mid-set breaks on the pull-up bar moves. Also, I wanted to do even reps on both sides so I went over-time by a few seconds on several moves and had to rewind to get the full time of the next move. I ended up adding about 10 minutes to the routine. Today WAS EXTREME!
I lost some flexibility on my splits. I had to push really hard just to get back to the mark. No extending today.
Today's flow was really good, but still not consistent. I do a really good flow, then in the next one I mix up Phoenix Tail with Ward Off or something elementary like that. The flow is still not "in" my bones. Got to keep doing it.
I felt good after my workout, revitalized.
Today's flow was really good, but still not consistent. I do a really good flow, then in the next one I mix up Phoenix Tail with Ward Off or something elementary like that. The flow is still not "in" my bones. Got to keep doing it.
I felt good after my workout, revitalized.
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Wk 13, D3. T25-Gamma: Speed 3.0 + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow. Tennis.
Wk 13, D3. T25-Gamma: Speed 3.0 + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow. Tennis.
Earliest start to date! Woke up at 6:15am and was sweating by 7am! New record for me! What a way to start my day. Then the drive to the gym to play tennis. Total of over 3 hours of working out and sweating to begin a cold rainy and windy day.
T25 was kickin'! I totally nailed today's routine. Straight 25!!! I was very solid on the transitions and only messed up on one move where I missed a squat. But I did made up the missed squat and nailed it. It was cold, but I got a good sweat going.
Earliest start to date! Woke up at 6:15am and was sweating by 7am! New record for me! What a way to start my day. Then the drive to the gym to play tennis. Total of over 3 hours of working out and sweating to begin a cold rainy and windy day.
T25 was kickin'! I totally nailed today's routine. Straight 25!!! I was very solid on the transitions and only messed up on one move where I missed a squat. But I did made up the missed squat and nailed it. It was cold, but I got a good sweat going.
I pushed it hard this morning and really went down on the splits. I was
able to get down further than ever before. Getting out of the splits
was slow going, though. It was good that my muscles were warm or I might
have torn something.
Tennis was good. The gym was especially cold this morning. I say good, but it didn't start out that way. Warming up took longer than usual. I just wasn't hitting my spots and was spraying the ball all over the court. I went down in the first set 1-5, but then I got my groove started to roll. I ended up taking the first set 7-5 final score: 7-5, 6-1, 6-0, 6-2, 6-0. It was great to test myself by digging myself into that hole.
In the end, I torched 700+ kcals with Beachbody and over 1000kcals with tennis. It's great to have my HRM back!
Tennis was good. The gym was especially cold this morning. I say good, but it didn't start out that way. Warming up took longer than usual. I just wasn't hitting my spots and was spraying the ball all over the court. I went down in the first set 1-5, but then I got my groove started to roll. I ended up taking the first set 7-5 final score: 7-5, 6-1, 6-0, 6-2, 6-0. It was great to test myself by digging myself into that hole.
In the end, I torched 700+ kcals with Beachbody and over 1000kcals with tennis. It's great to have my HRM back!
Monday, December 15, 2014
Wk 13, D2. T25-Gamma: Rip'T Up + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Wk 13, D2. T25-Gamma: Rip'T Up + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Full Flow.
Switched it up a bit to get "2 strength and 1 cardio X2" this week, then I'll do the 3 in a row Strength next week. My schedule is such that that will fit better this week and next.
Today's morning workout was awesome. I was able to keep up with the crew and Shaun T but due to some unforeseen circumstances involving family members, I had to take a few quick breaks so I was unable to do a Straight 25. But I was able to nail the moves. I was able to power through the pain and get to the end of each move except one. I got through the first three moves in the Chest Press progressions. I could not continue on to the 4th. I had to take a quick "Shake-it-out" break before getting back to it. That progression is the nemesis progression of this routine for me. Everything else is doable... with much pain, but doable. I'm going to do a Straight 25 by next week. That is my vow!
The Neural Reboot is as usual, but I've seemed to hit a plateau with the splits. As I said yesterday, I've got to push through and get off this plateau. I tried that today and got down a bit lower, but still not enough for me to say, "I'm OFF".
The Flow felt good today. But not there yet. I still feel like I'm sort of over-extending my front stance on some stances. I need to keep focused on my footing.
The odd thing about today's workout is that at the end of i, my legs were shaking like I had done a leg routine. Going down the stairs my legs were just quivering like wet noodles, and even on into the evening, my legs were sore and tingling. I think I'm going to try and get some extra Z's tonight to prepare for tomorrow. Tomorrow starts the "Holiday Party Season" for me. Parties with several different groups to say "Good-bye" to 2014, and Xmas parties. More Shakeology for me on those days.
Switched it up a bit to get "2 strength and 1 cardio X2" this week, then I'll do the 3 in a row Strength next week. My schedule is such that that will fit better this week and next.
Today's morning workout was awesome. I was able to keep up with the crew and Shaun T but due to some unforeseen circumstances involving family members, I had to take a few quick breaks so I was unable to do a Straight 25. But I was able to nail the moves. I was able to power through the pain and get to the end of each move except one. I got through the first three moves in the Chest Press progressions. I could not continue on to the 4th. I had to take a quick "Shake-it-out" break before getting back to it. That progression is the nemesis progression of this routine for me. Everything else is doable... with much pain, but doable. I'm going to do a Straight 25 by next week. That is my vow!
The Neural Reboot is as usual, but I've seemed to hit a plateau with the splits. As I said yesterday, I've got to push through and get off this plateau. I tried that today and got down a bit lower, but still not enough for me to say, "I'm OFF".
The Flow felt good today. But not there yet. I still feel like I'm sort of over-extending my front stance on some stances. I need to keep focused on my footing.
The odd thing about today's workout is that at the end of i, my legs were shaking like I had done a leg routine. Going down the stairs my legs were just quivering like wet noodles, and even on into the evening, my legs were sore and tingling. I think I'm going to try and get some extra Z's tonight to prepare for tomorrow. Tomorrow starts the "Holiday Party Season" for me. Parties with several different groups to say "Good-bye" to 2014, and Xmas parties. More Shakeology for me on those days.
Wk 13, D1. T25-Gamma: The Pyramid + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Wk 13, D1. T25-Gamma: The Pyramid + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Burned it up today and TOTALLY NAILED THE PYRAMID! STRAIGHT 25! It was awesome. So happy I was able to finally get this one in the bag. I was still using the 6kgs, and I think I'll try going up to 7kgs at the end of the week when I have to do this a second time. I was able to keep up with each move and the transitions were good. A few times I was a bit late off the gun, but I sped up to catch up with the crew. I thought I would have lost some strength already because of my day off, but I think that the day off helped me, and I was happy that I was able to maintain my strength level.
I cannot believe this is the last week of Tai Cheng. I will continue to do the flow everyday, but I'm wondering what to do about the Neural Reboot. There are some moves that I want to keep working on, like the splits, but I think I might go back to doing yoga, or do a core workout. I want to capitalize on my cough-strengthened ab area. As I said, I've had a cough for almost a month now, and I just can't kick it totally. Throat is just always scratchy and dry. Last week, my abs were really sore, and hurt when I coughed. Now, not pain, and I think my abs are noticeably stronger than before, so I don't want to lose that. At least something good will come from my suffering. hehe.
I think I've hit a plateau with my splits, I guess I need to dip into the dangerzone and push it harder if I want to get results. The flow is good if I don't speed up too fast. But I think I'll try to bump it up a notch next time.
Great way to start the week.
Burned it up today and TOTALLY NAILED THE PYRAMID! STRAIGHT 25! It was awesome. So happy I was able to finally get this one in the bag. I was still using the 6kgs, and I think I'll try going up to 7kgs at the end of the week when I have to do this a second time. I was able to keep up with each move and the transitions were good. A few times I was a bit late off the gun, but I sped up to catch up with the crew. I thought I would have lost some strength already because of my day off, but I think that the day off helped me, and I was happy that I was able to maintain my strength level.
I cannot believe this is the last week of Tai Cheng. I will continue to do the flow everyday, but I'm wondering what to do about the Neural Reboot. There are some moves that I want to keep working on, like the splits, but I think I might go back to doing yoga, or do a core workout. I want to capitalize on my cough-strengthened ab area. As I said, I've had a cough for almost a month now, and I just can't kick it totally. Throat is just always scratchy and dry. Last week, my abs were really sore, and hurt when I coughed. Now, not pain, and I think my abs are noticeably stronger than before, so I don't want to lose that. At least something good will come from my suffering. hehe.
I think I've hit a plateau with my splits, I guess I need to dip into the dangerzone and push it harder if I want to get results. The flow is good if I don't speed up too fast. But I think I'll try to bump it up a notch next time.
Great way to start the week.
Friday, December 12, 2014
Wk 12, D6. T25- Core Cardio + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Wk 12, D6. T25- Core Cardio + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Another morning workout today. Great way to start my day and end my week.
I was very happy because I was able to keep up with Shaun T and crew today. At least as far as their pace. Their pace seems just a touch faster than Speed 3.0 on several of the moves. The odd thing about this routine is that the moves and the rhythm of the music, at several points, felt a little out of sync. Then when Shaun T started to count, the count was not in sync with the beat of the music. That made it difficult, but it actually forced me to focus even more on what I was doing to keep pace. I don't know if that was intentional, but whatever it was, intentional or not, after the initial frustration, I was able to get into it rather well. I only took one break, that was between the first and second round. Shaun T doesn't stop, but today, I had to. But I caught my second wind and from that point on, I blew it out the seal!
Another morning workout today. Great way to start my day and end my week.
I was very happy because I was able to keep up with Shaun T and crew today. At least as far as their pace. Their pace seems just a touch faster than Speed 3.0 on several of the moves. The odd thing about this routine is that the moves and the rhythm of the music, at several points, felt a little out of sync. Then when Shaun T started to count, the count was not in sync with the beat of the music. That made it difficult, but it actually forced me to focus even more on what I was doing to keep pace. I don't know if that was intentional, but whatever it was, intentional or not, after the initial frustration, I was able to get into it rather well. I only took one break, that was between the first and second round. Shaun T doesn't stop, but today, I had to. But I caught my second wind and from that point on, I blew it out the seal!
I was able to get to the mark with the splits quicker today despite
feeling a bit tight. I have basically memorized the whole reboot
sequence so I can do it faster than the DVD and I can take more time
where needed.
I tried to speed up the flow today. I have been averaging about 83 seconds for the entire flow, but I wanted to try and get it to 70 seconds. When I sped up, a lot of issues came into play. I lost my balance several times because of movement momentum, I lost footing several times, brain farts, bad form, etc. So I went back to my 83 second pace and all was well. I guess I'm not ready to speed up. I will need to solidify the flow in my body and mind a lot more before I try to speed up again. But I learned a lot from all those mess ups. I may try again on Monday.
Day off tomorrow, and boy do I need it. Aches and pains at different points in my body. Not a full day off, I think I'll do some foam rolling on those problem points, and I think I will keep the splits stretch on whenever I can, even while I'm just watching TV or something.
Have great weekend, everyone!
I tried to speed up the flow today. I have been averaging about 83 seconds for the entire flow, but I wanted to try and get it to 70 seconds. When I sped up, a lot of issues came into play. I lost my balance several times because of movement momentum, I lost footing several times, brain farts, bad form, etc. So I went back to my 83 second pace and all was well. I guess I'm not ready to speed up. I will need to solidify the flow in my body and mind a lot more before I try to speed up again. But I learned a lot from all those mess ups. I may try again on Monday.
Day off tomorrow, and boy do I need it. Aches and pains at different points in my body. Not a full day off, I think I'll do some foam rolling on those problem points, and I think I will keep the splits stretch on whenever I can, even while I'm just watching TV or something.
Have great weekend, everyone!
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Wk 12, D5. T25-Gamma: Rip'T Up + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Wk 12, D5. T25-Gamma: Rip'T Up + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
AM workout today. Felt a bit tight all over and my hammys felt a bit gimpy for some reason. Instead of going back up to 7.5kgs as I did the previous go around on this routine, I stuck with what I used yesterday on The Pyramid, 6kgs. I was able to go longer, but the burn was intense on the last 4 reps or so on the dumbbell moves. BURN BURN BURN!!! Felt good. For some reason, I got winded really quickly on the cardio moves and needed some extra time to catch my breath. The oddest thing was the pull ups. There are only two pull up moves in this routine: first regular pull ups, and second, side to side pull ups. Going straight up, again, caused some acute but bearable pain in my left shoulder. But the side to side pull ups, no pain. Not sure why. Maybe it was the angle at which I was pulling wasn't straining the strained muscle, but it was nice to power through those pull ups with no pain.
Tai Cheng was its usual self today. Got a good stretch. Was able to get to the limit line quicker than yesterday, and I pushed a little past the line, but not so much so as to rip anything down there. The flows went quickly and smooth. Didn't have time to do too many reps, but got some quality flows in before heading to work.
Great way to start the busiest day of my work week. 14 hour day today. BRING IT ON!!!
AM workout today. Felt a bit tight all over and my hammys felt a bit gimpy for some reason. Instead of going back up to 7.5kgs as I did the previous go around on this routine, I stuck with what I used yesterday on The Pyramid, 6kgs. I was able to go longer, but the burn was intense on the last 4 reps or so on the dumbbell moves. BURN BURN BURN!!! Felt good. For some reason, I got winded really quickly on the cardio moves and needed some extra time to catch my breath. The oddest thing was the pull ups. There are only two pull up moves in this routine: first regular pull ups, and second, side to side pull ups. Going straight up, again, caused some acute but bearable pain in my left shoulder. But the side to side pull ups, no pain. Not sure why. Maybe it was the angle at which I was pulling wasn't straining the strained muscle, but it was nice to power through those pull ups with no pain.
Tai Cheng was its usual self today. Got a good stretch. Was able to get to the limit line quicker than yesterday, and I pushed a little past the line, but not so much so as to rip anything down there. The flows went quickly and smooth. Didn't have time to do too many reps, but got some quality flows in before heading to work.
Great way to start the busiest day of my work week. 14 hour day today. BRING IT ON!!!
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Wk 12, D4. T25-Gamma: The Pyramid + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Wk 12, D4. T25-Gamma: The Pyramid + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Last time doing this routine I got burned with 7.5kgs. Just couldn't keep up and took too many mid-set and in between breaks. I went down to 6kgs today and kept my mid-set breaks to only three moves and only about a third of the in between breaks. Added just over 4 minutes to the 25. Got a good burn right off the bat. Strength endurance is still a problem for me. I started off strong, then died coming to the finish of some of the curl moves. But I was strong on most of the other moves. Felt good.
Splits today started off tight. But by the second round, I was back to the same position as yesterday. I tried to stretch it out a bit more.
The sequences are getting better. As I go through the flow, each time there is a point where I feel a bit unsure as to what should come next. It is odd because I sort of automatically do the move but that uncomfortable split second hesitation is still there. I need to work that unsureity out of the flow. I want to get to the point where I can trust my movement without thinking and I am confident with each move without a bit of hesitation. But I was able to increase my rep count to 12. That is 2 up from previous times.
Great workout today.
Last time doing this routine I got burned with 7.5kgs. Just couldn't keep up and took too many mid-set and in between breaks. I went down to 6kgs today and kept my mid-set breaks to only three moves and only about a third of the in between breaks. Added just over 4 minutes to the 25. Got a good burn right off the bat. Strength endurance is still a problem for me. I started off strong, then died coming to the finish of some of the curl moves. But I was strong on most of the other moves. Felt good.
Splits today started off tight. But by the second round, I was back to the same position as yesterday. I tried to stretch it out a bit more.
The sequences are getting better. As I go through the flow, each time there is a point where I feel a bit unsure as to what should come next. It is odd because I sort of automatically do the move but that uncomfortable split second hesitation is still there. I need to work that unsureity out of the flow. I want to get to the point where I can trust my movement without thinking and I am confident with each move without a bit of hesitation. But I was able to increase my rep count to 12. That is 2 up from previous times.
Great workout today.
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Wk 12, D3. T25-Gamma: Speed 3.0 + Tennis + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Wk 12, D3. T25-Gamma: Speed 3.0 + Tennis + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Very odd day with a big morning and good evening.
Recently I haven't been sleeping well because of my throat and cough. But tonight I had to wake up at 3am to say good bye to my son who left for his class trip.
But I got in my T25 in the morning. STRAIGHT 25! The first time for me to do this routine without stopping. NAILED IT!!! Nailed all the burpee moves and everything else! Very happy about the performance.
90 minutes later, I was on the court playing in frigid temperatures. Again, shot like a bullet right out of the gate. Slow a bit as the session went on though. But everything was firing on all cylinders. Very happy about my game today. Final score: 6-0, 6-1, 6-2, 6-3, 6-0.
Got home at night and went right to my Tai Cheng! Splits were a little lost at the start, but got it back out by the end of the session. Got 10 flows in today. I'm able to go a little faster and not think so much about my movements. Still not automatic, though. It still hasn't become part of me, but it's getting there.
Instead of my HRM I've been using a pedometer so today, I got over 7000 steps with T25 and Tennis. But from past experience, I torched 1500kcals today.
On an odd note, I discovered that coughing is an awesome workout for my abs. As I said, I've had a cough for over a week now. Since last night, my abs have been sore, and it gets a sore kick with every cough now. Once my cough gets better, I'm going to integrate a core routine to keep that burn on.
Working out all day is great!
Very odd day with a big morning and good evening.
Recently I haven't been sleeping well because of my throat and cough. But tonight I had to wake up at 3am to say good bye to my son who left for his class trip.
But I got in my T25 in the morning. STRAIGHT 25! The first time for me to do this routine without stopping. NAILED IT!!! Nailed all the burpee moves and everything else! Very happy about the performance.
90 minutes later, I was on the court playing in frigid temperatures. Again, shot like a bullet right out of the gate. Slow a bit as the session went on though. But everything was firing on all cylinders. Very happy about my game today. Final score: 6-0, 6-1, 6-2, 6-3, 6-0.
Got home at night and went right to my Tai Cheng! Splits were a little lost at the start, but got it back out by the end of the session. Got 10 flows in today. I'm able to go a little faster and not think so much about my movements. Still not automatic, though. It still hasn't become part of me, but it's getting there.
Instead of my HRM I've been using a pedometer so today, I got over 7000 steps with T25 and Tennis. But from past experience, I torched 1500kcals today.
On an odd note, I discovered that coughing is an awesome workout for my abs. As I said, I've had a cough for over a week now. Since last night, my abs have been sore, and it gets a sore kick with every cough now. Once my cough gets better, I'm going to integrate a core routine to keep that burn on.
Working out all day is great!
Monday, December 8, 2014
Wk 12, D2. T25-Gamma: Extreme Circuit + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Wk 12, D2. T25-Gamma: Extreme Circuit + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Today's routine was tough! I lightened my weights down to 7.5kgs, and I was able to keep up, but had to take mid-set breaks because I couldn't maintain the pace. So I would have to drop a couple reps then jump back in. Also, this time, I used the pull up bar instead of just straight weights. Right shoulder was still a little gimpy but worked through it.
Reboot was good. I was able to open up a little bit on the splits. Foam rolling has gotten rid of most of my knots in my legs.
I moved the sequence part of the workout downstairs to an area with more room and it was very nice and free to be able to take regular stances through the entire flow. I'm going to try it again tomorrow at the gym where space is unlimited!
Great workout overall today. Felt good and strength is slowly coming back.
Today's routine was tough! I lightened my weights down to 7.5kgs, and I was able to keep up, but had to take mid-set breaks because I couldn't maintain the pace. So I would have to drop a couple reps then jump back in. Also, this time, I used the pull up bar instead of just straight weights. Right shoulder was still a little gimpy but worked through it.
Reboot was good. I was able to open up a little bit on the splits. Foam rolling has gotten rid of most of my knots in my legs.
I moved the sequence part of the workout downstairs to an area with more room and it was very nice and free to be able to take regular stances through the entire flow. I'm going to try it again tomorrow at the gym where space is unlimited!
Great workout overall today. Felt good and strength is slowly coming back.
Wk 12, D1. T25-Gamma: Rip'T Up + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
Wk 12, D1. T25-Gamma: Rip'T Up + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 1-3.
6 hours of shopping from noon. Walking for hours. Still not at top condition, but couldn't wait to get home and do my workout.
I used the 7.5kg dumbbells today, down 1.5kgs from the first time. Felt a lot more able, but still really tough. Still needed some extra time between moves to transition, but worked it out. Instead of doing the rows with dumbbells like last time, I did the pull ups. There was a twinge in my left shoulder. Odd, because the pain has usually been in my right shoulder. I'll have to power through that as well. This is a good starting point for the week. Needed about 8 extra minutes to finish the routine.
6 hours of shopping from noon. Walking for hours. Still not at top condition, but couldn't wait to get home and do my workout.
I used the 7.5kg dumbbells today, down 1.5kgs from the first time. Felt a lot more able, but still really tough. Still needed some extra time between moves to transition, but worked it out. Instead of doing the rows with dumbbells like last time, I did the pull ups. There was a twinge in my left shoulder. Odd, because the pain has usually been in my right shoulder. I'll have to power through that as well. This is a good starting point for the week. Needed about 8 extra minutes to finish the routine.
Was a bit stiff, but was able to get back to Friday's point on my mat.
And the soreness was much less today. Had a good reboot.
Very happy to be doing all three sequences now. I watched the full flow by Dr. Cheng, and Boy, was he fast. It will take a long time for me to get up to that speed. I still haven't had a chance to do the flow in a larger area, so that will be my next goal. Maybe tomorrow I'll do it in a larger room. I can see the finish line now. But this is just the beginning. I plan to do the flow everyday as part of my routine.
Can't wait to get rid of this sore throat. Week 12 is a GO!!!
Very happy to be doing all three sequences now. I watched the full flow by Dr. Cheng, and Boy, was he fast. It will take a long time for me to get up to that speed. I still haven't had a chance to do the flow in a larger area, so that will be my next goal. Maybe tomorrow I'll do it in a larger room. I can see the finish line now. But this is just the beginning. I plan to do the flow everyday as part of my routine.
Can't wait to get rid of this sore throat. Week 12 is a GO!!!
Wk 11, D6. T25-Gamma: Core Speed + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 2-3.
Wk 11, D6. T25-Gamma: Core Speed + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 2-3.
AM workout because of my schedule. Still not at 100% but getting better.
The final new routine of the program. Not quite in the Gamma stage officially, but a great routine none the less. I didn't know what to expect from this one, but it is a lot like the other Speed routines. I'll be sure not to do this one right after a Speed routine. Pretty similar experience to 3.0. Transitions were tough. Had to stop a few times to learn combinations, otherwise, great workout. I couldn't keep up with Shaun T's speed for about the first 10 minutes, but after warming up, I was able to keep up and burn it with him.
AM workout because of my schedule. Still not at 100% but getting better.
The final new routine of the program. Not quite in the Gamma stage officially, but a great routine none the less. I didn't know what to expect from this one, but it is a lot like the other Speed routines. I'll be sure not to do this one right after a Speed routine. Pretty similar experience to 3.0. Transitions were tough. Had to stop a few times to learn combinations, otherwise, great workout. I couldn't keep up with Shaun T's speed for about the first 10 minutes, but after warming up, I was able to keep up and burn it with him.
My inner thighs are still sore, but I have to keep pushing my
flexibility. I really want those full splits. In the flow, I tried to
extend my range a little bit, but my legs were feeling it and my space
hindered me a lot. I may do the flow again in a bigger place later.
Glad to get my workout done. I won't have time in the afternoon because the sun sets really early now. Happy for the weekend!
Glad to get my workout done. I won't have time in the afternoon because the sun sets really early now. Happy for the weekend!
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Wk 11, D5. T25-Gamma: Speed 3.0 + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 2-3.
Wk 11, D5. T25-Gamma: Speed 3.0 + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 2-3.
Still not at 100%, but wanted to push through this one.
3.0 is probably one of my favorites of Gamma stage. Straight forward and progression is easy to follow. Just the way I like it. But the transitions are a lot faster thus making them more difficult and with the burpees, that just makes it that much more difficult. Caught my second wind early and powered through. Felt good and with the endorphins coursing through my body, I felt a lot better.
My inner thighs were really sore today from the morning. I was thinking it was from the Pyramid yesterday and the close encounter with a bad cramping episode, but I think it is now because of the splits. I pushed it and got really low. Lower than I've been in a long time. Today's NR4 kept that up. It felt good to get low, I think I got even lower than yesterday. I have markers on my floor so it helps me track my progress. I went down about half an inch.
The sequences are getting better, but I really need to go into a bigger space. I think I'll try it in the gym next time. Hiccups and brain farts are getting fewer and further between. Happy about that.
Great workout today!
Still not at 100%, but wanted to push through this one.
3.0 is probably one of my favorites of Gamma stage. Straight forward and progression is easy to follow. Just the way I like it. But the transitions are a lot faster thus making them more difficult and with the burpees, that just makes it that much more difficult. Caught my second wind early and powered through. Felt good and with the endorphins coursing through my body, I felt a lot better.
My inner thighs were really sore today from the morning. I was thinking it was from the Pyramid yesterday and the close encounter with a bad cramping episode, but I think it is now because of the splits. I pushed it and got really low. Lower than I've been in a long time. Today's NR4 kept that up. It felt good to get low, I think I got even lower than yesterday. I have markers on my floor so it helps me track my progress. I went down about half an inch.
The sequences are getting better, but I really need to go into a bigger space. I think I'll try it in the gym next time. Hiccups and brain farts are getting fewer and further between. Happy about that.
Great workout today!
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Wk 11, D4. T25-Gamma: The Pyramid + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 2-3.
Wk 11, D4. T25-Gamma: The Pyramid + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 2-3.
Not feeling 100% today. Started coming down with something last night. But not so bad as to stop me from working out.
The Pyramid was tough! Once it started, I knew my weights were too heavy so I went down to 7.5kgs from 9kgs. But going through the routine, even 7.5kgs was too much. I just couldn't keep up with Shaun T's speed. For the previous two routines, 7.5 might me just right, but for this one, I think I'll need to go down to maybe 6 or 5. The cardio moves were good, so I was able to get through with no problem. But one I hit Up and Over, I was going full-tilt full range of motion and suddenly, my hamstrings started to give me that "pre-cramp" feel so I had to dial it down and saved myself a major incident. In the end, I just couldn't keep up, but I got through it.
I had a good run with Tai Cheng. Pretty much the same as yesterday. I'm pushing the flexibility exercises and am getting a bit better at keeping my hips tucked through out the flow. Working the hiccups out of the flow.
Felt better after my workout, but will still get my nutrition and sleep in.
Not feeling 100% today. Started coming down with something last night. But not so bad as to stop me from working out.
The Pyramid was tough! Once it started, I knew my weights were too heavy so I went down to 7.5kgs from 9kgs. But going through the routine, even 7.5kgs was too much. I just couldn't keep up with Shaun T's speed. For the previous two routines, 7.5 might me just right, but for this one, I think I'll need to go down to maybe 6 or 5. The cardio moves were good, so I was able to get through with no problem. But one I hit Up and Over, I was going full-tilt full range of motion and suddenly, my hamstrings started to give me that "pre-cramp" feel so I had to dial it down and saved myself a major incident. In the end, I just couldn't keep up, but I got through it.
I had a good run with Tai Cheng. Pretty much the same as yesterday. I'm pushing the flexibility exercises and am getting a bit better at keeping my hips tucked through out the flow. Working the hiccups out of the flow.
Felt better after my workout, but will still get my nutrition and sleep in.
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Wk 11, D3. T25-Gamma: Extreme Circuit + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 2-3.
Wk 11, D3. Tennis + T25-Gamma: Extreme Circuit + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 2-3.
WOW! TWO DAYS IN A ROW! That is TOUGH! Rip'T Up and Extreme Circuit consecutively is TOUGH!!! I Could not hang. 1. I was sore from Rip'T Up. 2. My weights were definitely too heavy for timed reps. 3. I may have caught a slight bug. I did the complete workout, but not straight 25. I had to stop and rewind almost every move, if not to learn the move, then to catch my breath. Several times I had to stop before the time ended to take a break. I think I will definitely have to go down in weight if I want to keep up next time. Got an awesome burn.
WOW! TWO DAYS IN A ROW! That is TOUGH! Rip'T Up and Extreme Circuit consecutively is TOUGH!!! I Could not hang. 1. I was sore from Rip'T Up. 2. My weights were definitely too heavy for timed reps. 3. I may have caught a slight bug. I did the complete workout, but not straight 25. I had to stop and rewind almost every move, if not to learn the move, then to catch my breath. Several times I had to stop before the time ended to take a break. I think I will definitely have to go down in weight if I want to keep up next time. Got an awesome burn.
I was surprised at
how low I was able to get on my splits. About an inch lower than just 8
hours previously! HAPPY!!! Since my workout was AM, I didn't have time
to do any extra sequences, so I just went straight through the flow as
many times as I could, which ended up being 6 times. The biggest
problem now is space. My area is about a yard too small and on certain
steps when I'm at the edge, I have to hope in and then I end up a yard
out of position. I think I'm supposed to end up in the same position as
I started, but I'm always a step forward. One of these coming times,
I'll have to try it in a wider area.
Got to fight off this bug as well. Unfortunately, my students don't know how to cover when they cough. BUMMER
Got to fight off this bug as well. Unfortunately, my students don't know how to cover when they cough. BUMMER
Wk 11, D2. Tennis + T25-Gamma: Rip'T Up + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 2-3 + 1-3.
Wk 11, D2. Tennis + T25-Gamma: Rip'T Up + Tai Cheng: NR4 + Seq. 2-3 + 1-3.
AM tennis. Warmed up quickly and jumped into the game. Started out with a roar and sort of lost steam past mid-way, but got my stroke back just at the end. Really pounded my legs today. Lots of sprints for the ball. More drop shots than usual today. Final score: 6-2, 6-1, 6-1, 6-3, 6-1.
I was rather nervous about this workout out. I was just starting to nail Rip'T Circuit with the heavier weights. I was considering going back down to the 7.5kg's but I guess I let my ego get the better of me and I stuck it out with the 9kgs. That was a mistake. I am tempted to go down next week. We'll see if my ego trumps my common sense.
AM tennis. Warmed up quickly and jumped into the game. Started out with a roar and sort of lost steam past mid-way, but got my stroke back just at the end. Really pounded my legs today. Lots of sprints for the ball. More drop shots than usual today. Final score: 6-2, 6-1, 6-1, 6-3, 6-1.
I was rather nervous about this workout out. I was just starting to nail Rip'T Circuit with the heavier weights. I was considering going back down to the 7.5kg's but I guess I let my ego get the better of me and I stuck it out with the 9kgs. That was a mistake. I am tempted to go down next week. We'll see if my ego trumps my common sense.
NR4 is great. It is
forcing me to do something that I absolutely hate, but I should do for
my flexibility... splits. Every since I can remember, I've wanted to be
able to do splits, but never endured the pain to actually do them.
Well, I'm going through the pain now with Dr. Cheng. I am seeing very
minimal results, but results none the less. I do hope I see much bigger
results by the end of the program so I will be motivated to continue
till I get them.
Again, very impatient. I couldn't wait for next week to put all three sequences together. I've pretty much worked the hiccups and brain farts out of sequence one, and I've gotten them almost all worked out of sequence two, Sequence three is another story. A lot of complicated moves so I'm needing more time to nail that down. But I am really enjoying the flow thus far. I still need to work on my footing and I need to ask some questions regarding Tai Cheng that don't get answered in the master scroll. So if anyone knows where I can ask questions regarding Tai Cheng, please let me know.
Great workout today. I'm missing my HRM!!!
Again, very impatient. I couldn't wait for next week to put all three sequences together. I've pretty much worked the hiccups and brain farts out of sequence one, and I've gotten them almost all worked out of sequence two, Sequence three is another story. A lot of complicated moves so I'm needing more time to nail that down. But I am really enjoying the flow thus far. I still need to work on my footing and I need to ask some questions regarding Tai Cheng that don't get answered in the master scroll. So if anyone knows where I can ask questions regarding Tai Cheng, please let me know.
Great workout today. I'm missing my HRM!!!
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