Wednesday, September 30, 2015

9-30-15 HY: ChaLEAN Extreme- Dynamic Flow Yoga + Splits + TCF.

9-30-15 HY: ChaLEAN Extreme- Dynamic Flow Yoga + Splits + TCF.

Mid-week recovery days are dessert! 

This was another new ChaLEAN Extreme Deluxe routine. Time wise, this routine fits perfectly right in the middle of a pack of my yoga routines. I've got a 20min., 30min., now, a 40min. Then it jumps to 70min. and 90min.  But this was awesome with a lot of new and different variations on standard moves.  I didn't have the weighted gloves this time, but it was actually a good thing because my shoulders were just killing me at the end.  I was able to get through the whole routine pretty well, but when I got the the last progression with the Triangle Pose, I started to cramp up in my hip flexor and had to come out of the pose and shake it out.  It happened on both sides. The 90 degree drop was new.  Now that I know what the routine is like, I may get some wrist weights and give it a try with them the next time around.  And yes, there WILL be a next time.

I had a time crunch so I wasn't able to do my splits and Flow until after work.  But I was very happy that I was able to get right to my mark right off the bat.  Got to keep pushing the lows.  I also had a good and virtually perfect set of Flows. 

I tried this routine with a HRM to see what my calorie burn was like, so in the end, just the yoga burned 245kcals.  Not bad.  But I felt really good today, energized for the day.

Oh, and my shins were really sore from the tennis yesterday.  All that stop and go movement really worked my legs in a different way.

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

9-29-15 HY: Tennis + Weight Machines + Splits + TCF.

9-29-15 HY: Tennis + Weight Machines + Splits + TCF.

FINALLY got back to some tennis.  Glad to be back, but after almost a month of no playing, I wasn't expecting to much, and rightfully so.  It took some time to get used to playing on the slick floor in the gym.  Timing-wise it was tough. But we got a short match in which I took 6-4, 6-4.  But it should have been better.  I was up 4-2 in the first set, but just lost it over the next two games and struggled to close it out.  We were 2-2 in the second.  I went up to 5-2, 40-love, then I fell apart, losing the next two games, eventually taking it 6-4.  But my concentration is just off.  I need to play more matches to get it back up.  But there were some really good shots on both ends of the court.  And, unfortunately, some real bad ones as well.  But it's a process.  I have to be patient and go with it.

I had some time so I went into the weight machine room after the tennis and pumped some iron.  I did pull ups (12), chest presses (60-80-100kgs at 12-10-8 reps), squats (80-90-130kgs all at 10 reps), lat pull-downs (40-50kgs at 10 reps each), and calf extensions (100kgs 3 sets of 10 reps).  My back was getting a bit sore, so I quit there.  But my legs were shaking at the end.  Good quick pump out.

At home, later that day, I did my splits and Flow.  All as good as usual.

In the end, I was REALLY MAD because I forgot to pack my HRM so I don't have a record for today or a calorie burn number.  But I would guess that it was close to 900kcals for the tennis and weights.  I need a recovery day!

9-28-15 HY: ChaLEAN Extreme- Get Lean Intervals + I've Got Abs + Splits + TCF.

9-28-15 HY: ChaLEAN Extreme- Get Lean Intervals + I've Got Abs + Splits + TCF.

I was planning to do a different set of routines in the ChaLEAN Extreme Deluxe pack, but when I put the DVD in, it was all messed up. It STARTED with the Cool Down, then jumped to another section, then to another place.  I'm having my coach see how I can get it replaced.  Hope to get a replacement soon.

So I did another Interval routine.  Same basic concept as yesterday's routine, but the moves were harder, and some of the cardio moves used a resistance band, so my butt was dying!  A lot of new moves, and new move combinations.  Just like yesterday, it seemed to go on forever. Every time I checked the time, I was like, "What? Still that much left?!?" But I pushed through and got through it.  Used the 5kg set again.  But I actually started off with 6kgs, but I only lasted half way through the first bicep curl set.  When the reps slowed down to a 4-count, I was like, "Uh-Uh, Can't do it." So I went back to the 5's.  Another great workout combining the new with the old.

I've Got Abs is also new, and it steps up the intensity one more step.  Now, I have a full week of ab routines within on program and the levels are very clear and progressive.  Loved the new moves in this routine, and the weighted moves.  I got a little cocky with the oblique move and tried it with a 10kg dumbbell, but no way, I wasn't doing it with 10kgs.  So I went back to the 5's.  Smart decision.  Such a great ab routine! Got a great burn as well.

Splits and Flow were good, and clean.  Pushed it hard and got low.  The Flow flowed and was solid.

In the end, I torched over 800kcals. I'm getting there.

9-27-15 HY: ChaLEAN Extreme: Extreme Intervals + Power90- Ab Ripper 300 + Splits + TCF.

9-27-15 HY: ChaLEAN Extreme: Extreme Intervals + Power90- Ab Ripper 300 + Splits + TCF.

Very tiring day with my daughter's Sports Day, but well worth the time.  My daughter won her event, the High Jump beating out members of the track team in the process.  So Proud!

After relaxing a bit, I got my butt up off the couch and started my workout.

New workout routine today.  This one from the ChaLEAN Extreme DELUXE collection which I just purchased so I was excited to give it a try.  Wow!  It was really tough.  Similar in pattern with the Burn Intervals, but the combination of moves just got my heart rate going and burned my out a lot quicker.  The cardio moves were good, but I used a pair of 5kg dumbbells so that was really tough.  High rep count and high speed with control.  The cardio moves were supposed to be the tough half of this routine, but for me the weighted recovery was the tough half.  As for the cardio, it was short and quick, I also went for deeper range of motion and explosive power on the come back so I wasn't able to go faster than Chalene's pace.  My legs were dying at the end of this one along with everything else.  Since this was my first time, it felt REALLY LONG!!!  It will take a few more times going through this routine before it feels like a short 35 minutes workout.

For abs, I did the original Power 90 Ab Ripper 200+100.  Basically, the same 10 moves with 30 reps each.  KILLER!!!!  My abs were killing me near the end of this thing.  Really hit the core good.

Splits and Flow were well done.  I am at the next plateau getting ready to keep on pushing.

In the end, I torched a good 700+kcals!  Good start to my week.


Saturday, September 26, 2015

9-25-15 HY: P90X/One on One/10 Minute Trainer- Friday Night Arms + Chest and Back + Plyo Intervals + Splits + TCF.

9-25-15 HY: P90X/One on One/10 Minute Trainer- Friday Night Arms + Chest and Back + Plyo Intervals + Splits + TCF.

Final 10 minute Triple-Header! This was the perfect workout to do today because I was on a major time crunch. I wrote the order of the routines as is on the DVD.  When I saw it, I was like, "Okay, first two resistance and then the cardio." But the order was actually Chest & Back, Plyo Intervals, Friday Night Arms.  Which to me, was a lot more difficult.  I knew Chest and Back would burn me out so doing it first really set the tone and pushed me hard.  A lot of push ups and pulling on the bands.  Major pump! Then the Plyo Intervals just burned out my legs, and I mean just fried them good.  All that jumping, the intervals didn't do much to lower my heart rate.  I was heaving like crazy!  Then to add insult to injury (metaphorically speaking, of course) FNA just gobbled up whatever was left of my strength in my upper body.  Totally burned out my triceps and forearms especially.  My biceps caught a break because I had to use the lighter bands.  Again, this is why I wish Beachbody would give more than just one set of handles with each set of bands.  I couldn't take the time to switch the handles between every move.  Tony even had three different tensions ready to use.  I'll have to invest in a set of handled bands pretty soon here.  But I finished my workout with a little time to spare.

I was able to go right into the splits and hammer out a few Flows.  Great workout today, and in the end, I totally torched over 1000kcals!  Awesome way to end the week and Flow into the weekend!

Friday, September 25, 2015

9-24-15 HY: One on One 10 Minute Trainer- Lower Body + Upper Body + Cardio Intervals + Splits + TCF.

9-24-15 HY: One on One 10 Minute Trainer- Lower Body + Upper Body + Cardio Intervals + Splits + TCF.
Busiest day of the week. Was rather tired, but when I got home after work, I was ready to workout!
Lower Body really killed my legs. All the squatting, lunging and hopping around is really tough. Talk about BURN!
My triceps were especially sore from the past few days, but this routine just burned out what I had left. I wish beachbody gave two sets of handles with their bands i...n stead of just one. It would have been nice to alternate heavy and medium bands. I love the Policeman Curls. I think that is my favorite move.
Cardio Intervals just burned out all my reserve. Another cardio essentially lower body routine. OUCH!!!
Splits were awesome as well as the Flow. Got really low and pushed lower. Also, for the first time, I was able to touch both knees to the ground on my butterfly stretch... with some help. (See pic below)
In the end, I torched 965kcals. No wonder with all the lower body work. Burned off a ton!


Wednesday, September 23, 2015

9-23-15 HY: 10 Minute Trainer- Total Body 2 + Core Cardio + Upper Body + Splits + TCF.

9-23-15 HY: 10 Minute Trainer- Total Body 2 + Core Cardio + Upper Body + Splits + TCF.

Finally, all caught up and up to date. Unfortunately, still feeling jet lagged so I'm heading off to bed early.  Maybe that is a good thing, because I've been getting a lot of good quality sleep recently.

For some reason, my lower body was feeling sore and tingly all day.  Total body just burned out what strength I had left. It also warmed up the upper body for Upper Body which burned out my shoulders and triceps.  The Core Cardio got the heart rate up to get my heart rate up to burn more calories.  As I've said before, I really like workouts the combine resistance and cardio because it increases the calorie burn. Well, it does for me.  I wasn't using a very strong band, but the high rep count BURRRRRRNNEDDD!!! 

The Splits and Flow were good.  Although I tried doing the Flow in a very confined space which just threw me off. So I resorted to going back and doing it in my regular space and as usual, had a good Flow.

In the end, I torched a solid 765kcals.  Time for some good REM sleep.

9-22-15 HY: One on One- On One Leg + 10 Minute Trainer- Cardio + Splits + TCF.

9-22-15 HY: One on One- On One Leg + 10 Minute Trainer- Cardio + Splits + TCF.

I can't believe I forgot about this routine.  I got this routine a while ago, put it in my library and didn't find it until just today. So I decided to go for it if it wasn't too long.  I went for it because it is only 30 minutes or so long. Perfect!  I had thought all along that this was a lower body routine, but in is actually an upper body routine with a lot of secondary and tertiary muscle work on the lower body and core.  I only used the bands (same color as Tony) and a pair of 10kgs dumbbells.  I got a huge pump and burn from this routine and I got some major soreness in my chest (for some reason) and legs the following day.  The biggest surprise is the soreness in my triceps.  It didn't feel, at the moment, that I was really working out my triceps all that intensively, but the following day, there was a latent soreness that screamed "tough workout".  All the moves were done twice, first on one leg, then on the other leg.  A shoulder move, a Tricep move, then sort of a core move, but each move made each level of my body work.  The pace of the routine was extremely slow.  A lot of talking between most of the moves, but it was really just right for how I'm feeling now so I was happy with it.  My balance was terrible! Or actually, it was terrible on the right side. A little better on the left.  But I was standing on a very soft surface so that may have been a big factor.  I was constantly tapping out, and I was, frankly, getting a little frustrated with myself.  I was wearing shoes as well.  So next time, I may try doing it on a harder surface and see if that works better.  But I got some major upper body pump by the first round.  Felt good!

I wanted a little more, so I added the little 10MT-Cardio routine.  Got my heart pumping just at the right level so as not to kill me, but give me a good sweat and cardiovascular workout.  But my legs were noodles at the end, shaking like crazy at the end.

Splits and Flow were very good so I was happy with that progress.  Got to keep pushing towards that goal of full splits by Dec. 31.  I am considering going back to review each move again so I can recall them by name during my Flow.  If I have time, that is the plan.  Still very jet lagged, but getting better.  One huge benefit of the Jet lag is the amount of sleep I'm getting.  Between 8-10 hours the past 3 nights.  I'm going to try and keep this going so I can get in as many hours before midnight as possible. I want to be able to get to sleep by 10pm every night for the month of October and I want to see if that has any influence on my weight, since all these trainers are saying fat burning happens during sleep. We'll see if they're right. So I'm getting a running start into October.

In the end, i torched over 700kcals again today.  With the shorter routines, that is my average so I'm happy!

9-21-15 HY: 10 Minute Trainer- Total Body + Lower Body + Abs + Splits + TCF.

9-21-15 HY: 10 Minute Trainer- Total Body + Lower Body + Abs + Splits + TCF.

Still really feeling the affects of jet lag so I don't feel ready to get back to the super intense routines just yet. I will take the week to recover somewhat and just do a series of the 10 Minute Trainer routines.  Perfect intensity level, they're fast and I can get a good burn and sweat from them.

Total body has a lot of good synergistic moves combining strength with cardio so the title is very precise. Worked out my entire body in 10 minutes. 

Lower body really took what my legs had left in them after total body and burned it out.  I had nothing left in my lower body after Lower Body.  Major shake as I entered the next routine.

This routine is always a good one for me.  Love to just do those intense ab moves that make that pain grow and burn.  I always get an awesome burn from this routine.

Splits recently have been really good and low.  I think something happened to me on my recent trip back to the U.S.A. that put me into the next level of splits because since coming back, I have been at a much lower distance that I was before the trip.  I am also less afraid of pushing lower.  I get to my mark and past it faster now, and I even feel good about going longer, adding rounds to the present circuit.  My goal is in sight, and coming clear.  Just over 3 months left.  I need to start pushing even more.

Flow was good.  Recently, I've been trying something that I thought would improve my Flow; Image Training.  At night, as I lay in bed, I tried to image the Flow.  However, it is a lot more difficult than I expected.  I just can't imagine the Flow.  I can't just see it, I have to move a little to activate my mental Flow, or I can't visualize the movements.  Also, I always get stuck at one point and can't seem to find my way around it.  I just can't figure out what to do next in the visualization.  Very off putting.  I don't want to mess up my regular Flow, but I should be able to visualize it, one would think, if I really knew it backwards and forwards.  If you have any ideas on this, I'd love to hear them.

In the end, great workout! Torched over 700kcals.  Jet lag still making me feel exhausted though. Just can't get that refreshing feeling yet.

9-20-15 HY: P90X3- X3 Yoga + Splits + TCF.

9-20-15 HY: P90X3- X3 Yoga + Splits + TCF.
I was feeling just exhausted from jet lag so I just went with some yoga to keep up with my flexibility and strength.  Felt a lot better afterwards, but got sleepy pretty quick.  I really think my recent trip to the US helped my flexibility a lot because I have definitely gotten to a new level in my splits.  Consistently lower now and able to push even lower each time. Goal is just coming into my sights with just over 3 months left.

9-19-15 HY: Tai Cheng- Neural Reboot 4

9-19-15 HY: Tai Cheng- Neural Reboot 4
This would normally be an off day, but I didn't want to miss two days in a row of stretching and splits, so I stretched out. Got a really good low on the splits! Jet lag still affecting me bad.

9-17/18-15 Going back home walking and bag lifting.

9-17/18-15 Going back home walking and bag lifting. I walked over 5km through 4 airports and 6 terminals, carrying my bags that weighed in excess of 15kgs. Glad I got a good series of workouts leading up to today. Not much cardio, but my legs got really tired by the end of the almost 30 hour journey.

9-16-15 HY: P90X3- MMX + ChaLEAN Extreme- Extreme Abs + Splits + TCF.

9-16-15 HY: P90X3- MMX + ChaLEAN Extreme- Extreme Abs + Splits + TCF.
I had planned to make MMX my closing routine. So I went all out and killed it! Great all around workout. Got a great sweat and burn on. Sad to be leaving the U.S.A.

9-15-15 HY: YAYOG- Intermediate Timed Sets + Circuit + Hip Hop Abs- Last Minute Abs + Splits + TCF.

9-15-15 HY: YAYOG- Intermediate Timed Sets + Circuit + Hip Hop Abs- Last Minute Abs + Splits + TCF.
I had some time today so I wanted to try a double routine. I was also feeling really good. Jet lag is finally starting to abate. To make a long story short, this workout was very tough. Had to dig deep to get through it. Legs were burning, and shoulders were aching, but I got through but best of all, I was able to finish strong.

9-14-15 HY: P90X3- Accelerator + ChaLEAN Extreme- Extreme Abs.

9-14-15 HY: P90X3- Accelerator + ChaLEAN Extreme- Extreme Abs.
Great workout and had sweat a good sweat. Had a time issue so I had to cut the workout after abs.

9-13-15 HY: P90X3- Agility X + ChaLEAN Extreme- Extreme Abs + Splits + TCF.

9-13-15 HY: P90X3- Agility X + ChaLEAN Extreme- Extreme Abs + Splits + TCF.
Today was extremely busy for family. Got up late and went to brunch with my sister and parents. Then we did our Yoga photo session. My sis was a bit out of shape so we weren't able to do some of the more challenging moves. But we were able to do it in nature which was fun. Then we went shopping then lunner (lunch+dinner) at Olive Garden. I didn't get my usual Nada Colada, and I ordered off of the light menu. It was still very good. Afterwards, we brought my sister to the airport to catch her plane home. By the time we got home, it was almost 9pm but after all that eating, I wasn't about to skip my workout.
I was still a bit full. I was wanting to do MMX, but opted for Agility X because I didn't want all the up and down action MMX has. It might have induced some vomiting. All the moves were awesome and worked perfectly for my needs. I made it all the way through until the very final move in which I had to tap out with just under 20 seconds remaining. I got back in after a quick shake out, and completed all the passes of moving and plyo push-ups. Burn burn BURN!
I moved right into the Ab work, and was very happy with the stamina I had through the whole routine. Lasted the whole routine. AND I got an awesome burn.
Splits and Flow were good. Just as good as the previous day.
In the end, I torched I solid 912kcal! Hope it made up for some of what I ate today.

9-12-15 Splits + TCF.

9-12-15 Splits + TCF.
I missed doing these parts yesterday, so I was sworn to do them today. I was able to get awesomely deep today on my splits. I actually didn't feel any adverse affects from the impromptu day off yesterday. I was very happy to get that low today.
Also, the Flow was extremely smooth and clean today. There were no residual effects of the other day's lapse in memory. Went all the way through with a strong sense of confidence.

9-11-15 HY: ChaLEAN Extreme- Burn It Off + Ab Burner + Yoga moves.

9-11-15 HY: ChaLEAN Extreme- Burn It Off + Ab Burner + Yoga moves.
Today was a rather unorthodox day. First of all, I invited my sister to workout with me and she readily accepted. She just signed up for the 30-day trial at beachbody so she wanted to try some routines I do. So I chose Burn it off. Working out with someone really changes the dynamic of the workout. For me, I felt I needed to step it up and get through the routine with seemingly no problem. That in and of i...tself really pushed me a lot because I went right up to my limit and a little past. According to my HRM there was a point that my rate shot up past 200bps. But this was the first time I had to take a longer break between rounds. I also had to teach the moves in between each move so there wouldn't be much of a break, so I was moving more than usual. Got a great lung burn on the cardio today.
Then my sister suggested we try Ab Burner, so I went with it. Personally, since I did this routine yesterday, it was a bit easier today, but it was still tough, but I still had to play it cool. HA! But I couldn't avoid the mandatory occasional grunt groan and moan after tough moves.
Then we tried some yoga poses and shot some pictures. Last year we shot a whole series of yoga poses together and we wanted to do it again. But since we didn't have much time we only shot a couple poses. It was fun!
In the end, I torched another solid 800+kcal workout. Plus the fun of working out with my sister was a great bonus!

9-10-15 HY: P90X3-Triometrix + ChaLEAN Extreme- Ab Burner + Splits + TCF.

9-10-15 HY: P90X3-Triometrix + ChaLEAN Extreme- Ab Burner + Splits + TCF.
I was feeling really good today, but I had somewhat of a time issue so I went with an X3 routine. I knew Trio was tough but I didn't really remember what it consisted of, but either way I went with it. The 3 levels on each move was ok at the beginning, but by the time I got to the Slaters, I was really heaving heavily. I really got a great burn. Trio is primarily a lower body cardio workout and I reall...y hit the target. I'm really grateful that these routines are not HIIT style because I probably wouldn't be able to take it at this time. The routine really tested me, and I sweat like crazy. My towel was the wettest it has been all week.
I went with Ab Burner for my abs today. I was really tested today. I can usually get through this routine pretty well, but today seemed tougher than usual. That sort of tell me that even though I may feel okay, my body is still not at 100%.
The Splits were good. Since I'm on carpet I can't slide, so I have to put one leg in a static position and the other leg on a sliding surface and slide it open. Luckily, my knees are still feeling okay so I, happy about that. I think I'm doing okay pushing low so far so I'll keep pushing.
The Flow was a lot better today, but I still didn't feel totally comfortable. My hand positioning still was a bit odd in that I still feel unsure as to just exactly where my hands are supposed to be. When I get home, I'll have to review the Flow to get that confidence back. But maybe it will click some time in the near future.
In the end, I torched a solid 850+kcals. I had to leave right after showering, but my legs were wobbly!

9-9-15 HY: YAYOG- Intermediate Ladders + Novice Circuit + Splits + TCF

9-9-15 HY: YAYOG- Intermediate Ladders + Novice Circuit + Splits + TCF,
I was feeling a lot better today because of the good sleep I had the previous night. I didn't have much sleepiness through the day so that was good. I had some time so I wanted to go a bit more intense, but not necessarily kill myself yet.
The intermediate Ladders was the perfect level. Not too long, with a matching level of intensity. It also added some strength work with push ups. The first two moves were lower body moves and totally burned out my legs. Got a good shake on. The second two moves were chest and back moves, push ups and back flies. Also, I doubled the number of reps. The ladder was simply 1-2-3-4 up and down twice for the push ups, and 2-4-6-8 for the back flies. But I doubled that and tried to do it in the same amount of time. I was dying by the end, but I was able to push through and keep up. Got a great pump and burn on.
I wasn't quite spent though so I was ready to do one more routine. The Novice Circuit was perfect because it was also quick and intense. 4 moves all at once in 4 circuits. I don't remember now what the moves were (since I'm writing this two days late) but I do remember the I started off with 14 reps for the first two circuits, then I tried to push it to at least 16 reps and higher for the last two circuits. One of the moves was Pike Push Ups and in the final circuit I pushed for 22 reps. Oh, in this routine, each move is 20 seconds with 10 seconds rest. But that rest time goes by really fast. Another move was again, Back flies. I didn't try to blast it this time because my back was somewhat burned out already. As I type, I'm slowly remembering the moves, and the first move was a burpee. 14 reps in 20 seconds was tough, but not killer. But I had to really push it to get 16 reps in the final circuit. The last move is Single Legged Deadlift. The first couple circuits were fine, but the last two were extremely tough because my lower left back was really starting to feel it. But it was a great routine to close off the main workout with.
I moved right into the splits and Flow. Again, I added time to each position so it added a total of about 3 minutes to the whole stretch for a total of 23 minutes. For the Flow... DISASTER! As I was going through the Flow, I just suddenly lost it. I totally blacked out and forgot what I was supposed to do with my hands. I tried a few times to restart, but I lost it. Total brain freeze! I ended up having to go to YouTube to watch my own video of the Flow that I posted. I had to watch it a few times to get the hand positioning I needed. I went back to the Flow and got through it, but I still felt really uncomfortable with it.
The big difference is that I'm doing my workouts on carpet so I had trouble with sliding and getting on the ground because I don't want to sweat up the carpet. Also, the little carpet fibers get on me and all over, sometimes even in my mouth so I am a bit vexed by that. But I'm pushing through it.
In the end, I torched a solid 830+kcals. Felt really good.

9-8-15 HY: YAYOG-Novice Ladders + ChaLEAN Extreme-Extreme Abs + Splits + TCF.

9-8-15 HY: YAYOG-Novice Ladders + ChaLEAN Extreme-Extreme Abs + Splits + TCF.
Today was somewhat messed up. I was scheduled to go to the Notre Dame campus to start my research, but first glitch in my plan is that I woke up too early, then went back to sleep and woke up at noon. I had brunch, then I got really sleepy again so I planned to take a quick nap, hammer out a quick workout, then head to ND. Also, I really needed a shower. The next thing I know, my dad is waking me... up at 10 to Six telling me it's time to go to the funeral of a family friend. Well, school was out, and my workout seemed not in the cards as well as a shower. Luckily, I had a pack of those body wipes that literally saved me, or should I say, it saved the people around me. HA! Anyway, the funeral went really long, I mean really REALLY long, and I didn't get back until close to 10pm. Fortunately, I was feeling wide awake so I got ready for my workout. I had been feeling in a haze all day and I had a bit of a headache so I went with a mild routine to get my body back to normal. The second level of the novice cycle of You Are Your Own Gym (YAYOG). I worked up a good sweat, and the full body nature of the workout really activated my bodies sleepy points and seemed to knock some rust out.
I moved right into Abs, and I got an awesome burn on them today.
I had to jimmy a slide for my splits because where I'm working out is carpeted. But I got it going and I got a good stretch.
I had to move a few things, but I made enough ace for my Flow. It was a bit tight, but what's new?
In the end, everything worked out, and I torched a respectable 604kcals! I was expecting around 300-400, so I was happy I got over 600. I have to make my plan work tomorrow. No matter what!

9-7-15 Transit Walking and luggage lifting.

9-7-15 Transit Walking and luggage lifting.
Today is the day I left for the USA. This is probably the smoothest trip I've taken, EVER! Hardly any lines to wait in, security checks were fast and easy along with immigration and customs. But I must have walked at least 5 miles carrying and pulling my bags. Going from one flight to another, terminal to terminal. Door to door, the trip was almost 26 hours. I totally spaced on bringing two things, first, a hat. I always wear a hat, but this time, no hat. But that also gives me an excuse to get a new one. Second, my pedometer. As I was walking, I was bummed that I didn't bring it. But I might get a new one here if I have the time to shop around. When I got to my destination, I was exhausted and sleepy. Glad to be in the good ol' USA!

9-6-15 HY: P90X-Kempo Cardio PLUS + RevAbs-Merciless Abs + Splits + TCF.

9-6-15 HY: P90X-Kempo Cardio PLUS + RevAbs-Merciless Abs + Splits + TCF.
Last workout of the summer here at home, when I get back from my trip, I will only have a few days to recover from jet lag and then it's back to school. I don't even know my schedule yet. HA!
Good workout today. When Tony said it was a moving workout, he wasn't lying! I was constantly moving during the routine and I worked up a great sweat. Overall, I really like the routine, except for the Spinning ...Sword move and the next move, Spinning Sword and Low Back Fist. Tony says to look back each time, but I can't. I tried, but I could feel the dizziness coming on and so I just kept looking at the screen. Love the Gladiator, the combo knee and kick moves, the moving punches and elbows, etc. A lot of fun!
I finally got to do the Merciless Abs routine! Other routines seemed to bump it out of place when it was scheduled. But it ended up being my finisher for P90X. As expected, and as usual, I got a great burn and ache from it. Felt the tight abs for hours afterwards. LOVE IT!
The Splits were very good. Got to my mark quickly. I doubt I could have done that if I didn't do them last night. But to up the intensity, I am now adding time regularly to all the moves. I may try to just add a whole extra cycle in. Time permitting, that is what I will do starting when I get back, or even during my trip.
The Flow was also as usual. No hiccups this time. Just a good solid Flow. Happy to get through it in good fashion. But still need to steady up the ship.
I was not planning to bring my HRM, but the closer I got to filling my bags, I changed my mind and decided to bring it. It is a huge tool in my motivation so I need it with me. I also am bringing a resistance band so I can do some strength training as much as possible. If I can pick up a set in the US, I will. The ones I have are old and are starting to get that used eraser look. I don't want one to snap on me in the middle of a workout. I will try to maintain my daily reports while I'm away. Thank goodness for free Wi-Fi!
In the end, I torched over 830kcals today. Great way to begin my week, and finish P90X! CHEERS ALL!!

Sunday, September 6, 2015

9-5-15 HY: Splits + TCF.

9-5-15 HY: Splits + TCF.

Previously I vowed to never let two days go by without doing my splits.  Since I missed doing my splits yesterday, I had to do them today.  The big challenge is that I had to do them without the benefit of warming up my muscles through a workout.  So I did my usual Neural Reboot from Tai Cheng to loosen up but I tried to do it a bit slower to get a better pre-stretch.  I also added time to each move so I could try and hit my mark, and I almost did.  I was still sore and tight from Legs & Back and tennis.  But I got a good stretch.

The Flow was a good slow pass.  I had a bit of a balance issue because I was trying to stay in control of my speed.  But I handled it and got through.  But I still need to have better all around control at any time and at any speed.

I wanted to do a regular workout tonight, but I just didn't have the time with my travel preparations and helping my kids with various things.  So I guess tomorrow is my final regular workout before my trip. I'm going to have to bring it!

Saturday, September 5, 2015

9-4-15 HY: Tennis + TCF.

9-4-15 HY: Tennis + TCF.
As expected, I woke up quite sore in my glutes and legs. Not as much in my back so that was good. I was wondering how I would do my workout with this soreness then my son came home early and said, "I reserved the court for 3 hours, let's play!" What was I to say? "Let's Go!". So I played, or should I say worked out through tennis for three hours. Conditions were perfect! It had been a while since I had played last, so I had a lot of rust to work out. Did a lot of drills and practice. My legs were sore to begin with, but they loosened up a bit once they got warm. We took some time to do some videoing of my son's serve, then got back to playing. We tried to "groove rally" but my timing was just off that I couldn't keep it going. But we had a good time.
In the end, I torched just under 1600kcals!
Once I stopped the running and moving, my legs and especially my knees just stiffened up and I was again in pain. I did the Flow in the evening, but only for a few passes because I was too sore. No splits tonight for the same reason. I will foam roll tomorrow and do Splits. I am also considering doing a workout tomorrow night since I will be taking Monday off for my trip back to the USA. Can't wait. 28 hours!
So glad it's the weekend!

Thursday, September 3, 2015

9-3-15 HY: P90X-Legs and Back + Ab Ripper X + Splits + TCF.

9-3-15 HY: P90X-Legs and Back + Ab Ripper X + Splits + TCF.

This is the last resistance routine of the week.  To finish out my P90X(+) run, I only have one routine left, but it is a cardio routine so that is for tomorrow.  So, I decided to test my legs and back and did Legs and Back, my nemesis routine.

The last time I did this routine, I used the assist band on all the pull up variations except the last Switch Grip Pull ups.  Today, I used no assist band at all on any of the sets.  Instead, I limited about 0.25 to 0.3 of all my reps to about 85% range of motion.  I would do about 3 reps going 85% of the way down, then once I got warmed up and got my form steady, I went all the way down.  But there was absolutely ZERO pain in my shoulder at any point during the workout.  I was very VERY happy for that.  The last time I did this routine, My inner thigh started cramping on move 8.  Today, no cramping feeling at all during the entire routine.  Again, Happy!  I used 3kgs X2 for all the weighted stuff except for the calf raises on which I used 12kgs X2.  Today, i upped that weight to 5kgs X2, and then 19.5kgs X2 respectively.   Legs were feeling good.  But after the routine, I could feel my legs just shaking like crazy!  I have one comment about one move.  The Three-Way Lunges.  I was watching Tony do them and when he went to the side, he was basically just doing a regular lunge squaring his hips to the left or right, then added the front kick.  Same thing with the 45degree lunge and the front lunge which is the only one that was technically correct.  Isn't the point of that move to open your hip in three different angles with the lunge and kick?  That is what I am trying to do every time.  Today, I also tried to maximize every move.  It was fine until I got to the Dead lift Squats.  The move actually seems more like a weighted squat to me but what do I know.  Tony does 20 reps. My right leg had to tap out a 15 and jump back in for the last 5.  Left made it all the way to 20 reps.  OUCH!!!  All in all, it was a great workout.  I was happy I was able to up my weights and not use the assist band.  Also, I pushed myself to get at least 12 reps on all the pull up moves so I ended up with a total of 96 pull ups.  So at the end, I did 4 reps to round out a good 100 reps.

I was scheduled to do RevAbs Merciless Abs today, but when Ab Ripper X started up, I got lazy and just decided to go with it.  I quickly regretted it.  This is a killer ab routine in its own right, but doing after Legs and Back makes it way more difficult.  Just lifting the legs was like... OUCH!!!  But I held on all the way to Mason Twist.  I wanted to get to at least 40 reps, but I had to tap out at 20 reps.  Just too killer.  But I started the move over and I did 30 reps, took a 10 rep break, the did the bonus 10 reps.  So I did a total of 60 reps with two breaks.  I had to get that extra in there.  My legs were shaking like a wet and cold Chihuahua.

I had emptied my water bottle by this time so I went downstairs to get more water and my legs were wobbly!  But I refilled my bottle and got into the Splits and Flow.  With my legs that warm and stressed, the splits were actually good.  I felt really good and loose.  Got to the mark quickly and push past it a bit.  The Flow was actually better than I thought it would be.  The last time I did the Flow with this much leg shake, I had balance issues, but today, no such issues.  Everything was smooth and steady, except for at one point, I stepped back and accidentally stepped on my push up stand.  Lost some balance there, but I worked it out and finished the Flow.

In the end, I TORCHED 1268kcals!  Legs and Back always gives me a huge calorie burn! LOVE IT!!!

9-2-15 HY: P90X-Yoga X + Splits + TCF.

9-2-15 HY: P90X-Yoga X + Splits + TCF.

This was a good day.  I had minimal soreness from the previous day so I was able to go all out on the poses today.  I went for the full experience, turning off my florescent light and only had natural light coming into my space and I also went barefoot.  It was nice to just move in the semi-darkness and freely flow with no interruptions.  I tried to extend all my poses and open everything that was targeted with an open stance.  On the Warrior poses I really tried to stretch out my hip flexors keeping in mind to stay balanced.  The difficult poses was the Half-moon sequence with the standing splits.  I have never been able to get my back leg higher than 90 degrees on either side.  Balance was a huge issue on my right, but a lot better on my left.  I kept tapping out and falling off balance.  Warrior 3 was also a lot easier on my left than on my right.  In the second half, the balance poses were a lot easier than the previous time.  I have never been able to touch above my head on Plow, but I'm getting closer.  I don't want to push too hard because of how it bends my back.  Once I lose my spare tire, I think I will have a chance, but just my body shape puts me at a disadvantage for that kind of move.  All in all, it was a great session.

I was thinking to not do the splits, but I wanted to see if there would be a difference after Yoga.  BOY! WAS THERE EVER!!!  I was able to hit my mark right off the bat and later, push way past it.  This was the lowest ever to date.  Very happy about that.  So, I extended the times a bit for more work.

The Flow was also very good.  I did a slow run and was very smooth, again keeping watch of my hip tuck and steady speed on all points.  Breathing as well.

In the end, I burned a solid 460+kcals during this workout.  YEAH!!!

Tuesday, September 1, 2015


This is my workout calendar for August.  Keeping it going. Orange days were tennis only days. There was one day that I risked tennis and a regular workout. Thankfully, no further injury to my shoulder or anywhere else!

9-1-15 HY: P90X- Total Body PLUS + Abs/Core PLUS + Splits + TCF.

9-1-15 HY: P90X- Total Body PLUS + Abs/Core PLUS + Splits + TCF.

A new month is upon us and in one week my ultimate challenge will begin. Maintaining a good and healthy diet while in the USA and keeping up my workouts.  I won't have time to go to a gym and there is no equipment at the place I'm staying at so it will have to be all body weight and I am also going to bring a set of bands.  If I can find a good set in the US, I'll get a new set there.  Kind of excited for the challenge.  But planning ahead, I am scheduling a 3-Day Refresh all ready to go when I get back home!

Today was a really free day. No appointments, no chores, totally free, so I took my time and did my workout at my leisure.  Great workout today with a huge calorie burn coupled with a raging pump and burn all over my body!

As the name states, it was "Total Body" today.  And BOY was it ever!  A lot of push up variations, a lot of pull up variations, a lot of weighted twisting variations as well.  Then at the end, there were some killer combos that I really liked, "3&3" and "1&1".  Get the program to find out what those are.  You won't regret it!  Also, a lot of lunges and squats that BUUURNN!!!  With a tiny bit (one move) of yoga to keep me honest.  A lot of the names of the moves do not reveal what the move actually is like in other routines.  For example, "1/2 Dervish".  I assume, if you are majorly into fitness, one might know what that is, but it is similar to the Discus Throwers in the Ab/Core Plus routine.  Or a variation on Loading Dock.  Another challenging combo was "Kid Play" or more descriptively named, "Push up to Bridge Combo".  It was really tough to keep pace with Mark. One tough but great thing I liked about this routine is that it mixed resistance with cardio somewhat.  I really like doing that because for me personally, it give me a bigger calorie burn that just one or the other.  Love this routine!

I was going to do RevAbs Merciless Abs today per my schedule, but since today was so free and I had a lot of time, I just went on and did the longer ab routine.  20 moves in 20 minutes.  5 rounds of 4 moves.  A crunch variation, a lying move variation, a hanging off the pull up bar variation, and a balance/yoga variation.  Also, several of the moves were weighted to give that extra little something something.  The only move I couldn't do because of space issues is the second to last move, "360 Chataranga Run"  I just don't have the space in my room to spin around, so I was just doing a multi-directional plank walk.  I wish I could have done it in Chataranga, but just couldn't.  One of the toughest moves for me was the Seated Backstroke.  It is a weighted move.  I initially tried it with 5kgs, but with the first rep, I said, "NOPE, Too heavy!"  I just wasn't able to control the dumbbells.  So I dropped down to 3kgs.  I might have been able to do 4kgs, but I decided to stay safe.  At the end of each set, I was happy for the decision. OUCH!!!  This routine gave me an exceptional core burn which I am still feeling a few hours later.  That's what I like!!

Moved right into the Splits which were a bit better than yesterday.  But for some reason I accidentally mixed up the order and did something new today.  But still got a good stretch in and got to the mark and even a little passed it.  Finally, the Flow was good.  I moved well and had no big balance hiccups.  Slow and steady was on the menu for today.

In the end, I torched a huge 1267kcals.  When I looked down at my HRM I was like WA WHAT??? Oh Happy Day!!!  And Happy September!!

8-31-15 HY: P90X-Intervals PLUS + Splits + TCF.

8-31-15 HY: P90X-Intervals PLUS + Splits + TCF.
I still remember the last time I did this routine. I did it as a cardio filler just because I had an extra cardio day that wasn't spoken for. I was really dying that time. It was a few months ago in early summer. I thought I would do better this time. I overestimated myself.
The routine was simple enough. It started out with just an easy three level running in place. All the moves ranged in time from 30 seconds to 90 second...s. The first round was tough and I felt winded after each of the third levels, but I was able to recover quickly and continue without any extra break. But the second round in reverse started with what essentially was a modified burpee to a super burpee. I pushed as hard as I could so as not to stop in the middle of the move, but once I finished the move, I was extremely winded and recovery took a lot longer. I needed extra break time. In fact, for almost every move in the second round, I needed some extra recovery time. I was okay during the move, but once it ended, I was so winded I needed time to rest. I tried going into a very modified level one, but found that that was even too much to take right away. I sort of recovered from that excessive windedness near the end of the second round so I was able to keep up with Tony. One interesting thing was that during the routine, Tony often announced his heart rate and asked the other two people what their heart rate was. When I checked my heart rate against theirs, mine was consistently lower than theirs was. The closest I got to theirs was within 2 points. Most of the time I was between 10 - 15 points lower even though I was more winded especially in the second round. But I did get a good sweat on, and I got a good burn on as well.
I moved right into Splits and tried to push it hard, but I was feeling a little bendier than usual on my knees so I pushed just a bit so as not to aggravate something.
I went for the slow pass today and really tried to get back to basics. I've been trying to clean up the Flow and chisel out each move. I have been noticing that my speed is a little erratic so I am trying to even everything out. Erratic in the sense that I move slower on some moves and faster on the easy ones. I especially noticed it when I punch. I always speed up on the punch, but today, I really had to focus to keep the punch slow but intense. I worked out okay. But I still need to work on it.
In the end, I torched well over 800kcals. I was surprised at the number, but happily surprised.

8-30-15 HY: P90X-Upper PLUS + RevAbs-Mercy Abs + Splits + TCF.

8-30-15 HY: P90X-Upper PLUS + RevAbs-Mercy Abs + Splits + TCF.
There is only one more week before I leave for the USA for about 10 days. I am really looking forward to the trip, but making time for working out and eating good will be, always has been a challenge. There are so many things that I can't get in Japan that I want to have while I'm there. Last year, I solved the workout issue, but the eating was still a puzzle. I'm sort of working out a plan now, what to eat, a...nd when. I'm watching my calorie intake and logging everything, or at least I'm preparing to log everything. ANYWAY...
Today was a good day. Had a good breakfast, then out for sushi for lunch with my ladies! Shake for dinner. But before that, WORKOUT!!!
This week will effectively allow me to finish all the P90X routines plus some extras. This will be the week for X+. Started today with Upper Plus. It was a lot more difficult that I remembered. This was my first introduction to the timed sets instead of rep count sets. Four groups of 5 moves each with a 30 second break in between each group. Move 1, a push up variation, 2-a pull up variation, 3-Shoulder\back, 4-Bicep, 5-Triceps. Really tough progression. It was interesting because I expected to do at least 12 reps in the allotted time, but the time changed from 30 seconds to often times, 90 seconds, sometime a minute. The longer periods were killer, I was dying to finish and the finish never seemed to come. I was happy to not use the assist on the pull up variations. The L-Chin up was especially tough. I cheated a bit on range of motion. I went down about 130 degrees instead of 180. With that ROM I could pump out only 10 reps, but I was satisfied. I got an extremely good pump and burn from this routine. One big change, I had to use my daughter's door instead of my son's door to set up my pull up bar because my kids' tutor came. It was okay today, but I wasn't able to as wide as I wanted on some of the switch grip pull ups. Also, it was a little tougher today because I couldn't grunt and groan a loudly as I usually like to when doing weights. BUMMER!!!
The door change is one reason I didn't do the Plus Abs routine. Swinging my knees side to side is difficult if not impossible to get a good range of motion on my daughter's door, so I went with Brett. Still got a super burn on the core. Still feeling the pump hours later.
The splits were a little painful at first, but once I got that initial stretch out of the way, it went well. Pushed low. I also got a good feel during the Flow.
In the end, I torched a solid 780+kcals today! Good way to start off my week!