Day 1 Week 1 of the February 30 Day Challenge

Well, I did it! I made it through my first 30 days and now I am moving on to the February challenge. I don't think I ended my January 30 day challenge as well as I should have, but I did the best I could for where I was. I did not workout Monday and Tuesday this week since I was traveling, but I will compensate by working out Saturday and Sunday to get my 5 days in this week. I began with the Fit Test and since I just took pictures I won't take new ones for 2 more weeks. I noticed also on the site that there are levels of workouts available (beginner, intermediate, and hard). I recommend taking a look at these levels if you are unsure when you begin, or if you want to see where you are after some time with Body Rock.  The Fit Test only called for 8 sequences, but I felt like doing one more when I got done! Here goes...

Workout: Fit Test 8 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds between sequences
#1 Squat jumps [30]
#2 Push ups [24]
#3 Burpees [17]
#4 High knees [159]
#5 Switch lunges [41]
#6 Tuck jumps [27]
#7 Tricep dips [25]
#8 Straight abs [22]
*I did a complete sit up, from the floor to the knees! The very first fit test I did crunches, then on the second fit test I did halfway up, now I am getting stronger to do more of a complete sit up. I have always bee good at crunches and have defined upper abs...but the harder ones to work are the lower abs and a complete sit up does it right!
#9 Side leap using the ball [44]
*I like to workout the back of my legs more now that I can really see a difference, plus these help work those obliques and arms

I think I did great for my first day of this Challenge. I also did my homework beforehand and got my thoughts in place for the next few days. It helps me put into perspective what I have ahead of me for the week...and it is a good thing I did! This next month is going to be killer!! I am excited for it though! Here's to Day 2 Week 1 for February! Until tomorrow...

April **My inspiration for today is Goals**

Day 5 Week 4 of the 30 Day Challenge

Well, I did it! I made it through the whole 30 Day Challenge and I think I did great! I loved it and I look forward to the next challenge. I woke up here in New York after a terrible night of sleep with the building next to us being built very loudly beginning at 3:30am! But, I still got up and did the last Fit Test. My scores were not completely better than the last one, but I feel stronger and am ready to move on to harder more intense workouts! I could also do a better job at watching what I eat, not that I eat bad; I just could do better. I also have my ending pictures from this series...I hope you can see the changes that I feel!!

Workout: 7 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds between sequences [Fit Test]
#1 Squat jumps [28]
#2 Push ups [19]
*I did girl push ups
#3 Burpees [15]
#4 High knees [135]
#5 Switch lunges [36]
#6 Tuck jumps [21]
#7 Straight abs [25]
*I did abs with my hands behind my head and came up into a V with my knees

Well, here they are...my "after" pictures from this 30 Day Challenge. I look forward to hearing and seeing your accomplishments! Here's to the next 30 days! Until then...

April **My word for today is Accomplished**

Day 4 Week 4 of the 30 Day Challenge

Happy Body Rockin' from New York!! I really wanted to wake up early this morning and workout before we left for our trip, but I woke up on time at 3:55am and just didn't have time! It literally was the only thing I thought of today! We are having a great time...we landed at JFK at 11:11am (Eastern time) and got checked in at our hotel, we ate a good lunch and dinner and went for a walk through Central Park. Even after being awake and going for 19.5 hours I still found 16 minutes and a small amount of space to get the workout done. Luckily I didn't need weights or equipment today, but I did need motivation to get up and do the routine! So there I was, on the 11th floor of the hotel stomping every other 30 second sequence with high knees wondering if someone was going to knock on the door and tell me to quit stomping around! :) Well, here is the workout for today...

Workout: 16 minutes with 30 second sequences and 10 seconds in between sequences [Do once]
#1 Push up + burpee + tuck jump [6]
#2 High knees [91]
#3 Switch lunges [22]
#4 High knees [88]
#5 Press up with spider knee [13]
#6 High knees [93]
#7 High knees x 10 + mountain climbers x 10 [4]
#8 High knees [92]
#9 Side burpee + oblique abs [6]
#10 High knees [95]
#11 Push up + side plank twist + oblique drop [7]
#12 High knees [95]
#13 V abs left [21]
*I did obliques on the floor because the V side sit hurts my hips
#14 High knees [95]
#15 V abs right [22]
*I did obliques on the floor because the V side sit hurts my hips
#16 High knees [95]
#17 Hug knees + star jack [20]
#18 High knees [96]
#19 Single toe touch abs [14]
#20 High knees [96]
#21 Squat jumps [18]
#22 High knees [95]
#23 1/2 burpee + 1 push up [10]
#24 High knees [100]

I noticed that today's workout was not as good as the last time I did this workout...but I am not going to get discouraged. As long as you try your hardest each day, then you know you did your best and you should be proud of your numbers! I only have one more day of the January 30 Day Challenge, the Fit Test! Tomorrow I will also be posting my "after" pictures for this Challenge. I hope I have helped inspire some of you out there! I try to tell everyone I know about this because it is amazing!! Here's to Day 5 Week 4! Until tomorrow...

April **My word for today is Obsession**

Day 3 Week 4 of the 30 Day Challenge

WOW, today is such a busy day for me! I leave for my conference tomorrow!!! New York here I come! :) I made sure I had all of my things packed last night and additionally checked my bag this morning...and still made a point to get up and bodyrock with Day 3's workout! It was a good one too! I feel great too. The morning workouts have helped me sustain energy throughout the day...I think this is a trend I will continue! Well, not much to say and not much time to say it in...here is my workout!

Workout: 12 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds rest between [ Do twice ]
#1 Push up + front raise [ 7, 7 ]
*Do a push up and then get to your feet and front raise your weight or bag. I did a 10lb weight
#2 Bag Drag [ 46, 48 ]
*I did not drag a bag because I didn't have one, so I did the solo steps and each step counts as one.
#3 Commando push up + roll + mountain climbers x 10  [ 2.5, 3 ]
*A commando push up is where you do a push up then bring one knee in and then do a push up and bring the other knee in, then roll. On the first set I did not finish the mountain climbers.
#4 Shoulder list + squat + one leg lift [ 8, 10 ]
#5 Round the world using the sand bag [ 11, 13 ]
*Do a squat and then take your bag (or in my case weight) and rotate it around your head back to the front.
#6 Squat + Press + Jump [ 17, 17 ]

This workout is a great one to do on an active rest day too! I hope I can keep this up and get my last 2 days in while I am in New York! Good luck everyone and here's to Day 4 Week 4! Until tomorrow...

April *My word for today is Speed**

Day 2 Week 4 of the 30 Day Challenge

Busy morning!! But, I did get up bright an early at 5:55am and get ready for my workout! It was intense and while I can definitely tell my arms are getting stronger, I think I need to work on my wrist strength! By round 2 they were killing me! I really like doing these workouts to start my day. It gives me more energy and helps me push through that afternoon slump that usually occurs at 2:30! So, without further ado here are my scores :)

Workout: 12 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds rest [ Do 3 times ] #1 Push up + Clean and press + Squat and press [ 6, 5, 5 ]
*The first set I did regular push ups and for sets 2 and 3 I did girl push ups
#2 Poly-metric jump + Press up [ 9, 7, 8 ]
*The first set I did regular push ups and for sets 2 and 3 I did girl push ups
#3 Plank + Floor Touch + Knee touch (alternating sides) [ 7, 7, 8 ]
*I do not have the equalizer so I used a chair
#4 Reverse pull ups [ 17, 15, 20 ]
*I do not have the equalizer so I used a chair

This morning was great! I am super excited to get to Friday and see what I can do for the Fit Test again. I will also post pictures for the end of the workout, but don't be distraught...I will continue the blog and continue to exercise and hopefully continue to inspire more people to get up and use the time they have wisely. I look forward to seeing your progress, remember to comment or send me a link to your blog if you have one! Here's to Day 3 Week 4! Until tomorrow...

April **My work for today is Lively!**

Day 1 Week 4 of the 30 Day Challenge

Well, I made it...Week 4 is here! Even though I feel like crap and this sickness in my sinus cavities is killing me, I got up and did my workout this morning. (Friday night I even bowled 3 games for a second workout on Friday!) I can already say there have been HUGE changes physically and mentally over the last 3 weeks. The Mardi Gras dress I bought at the end of January is too big (it is an 8, which was great to begin with), the skinny jeans I just bought a week and a half ago are now too big (they are a 10, which I was amazed I am back in at America Eagle), and I bought a new pair of shorts last week just because they fir and they were a size 7/8!!! I have not been that size since I was 18! Now, does this mean all size 8's will fit me...of course not. All clothes are made differently. I even went back to American Eagle to see if the skinny jeans I bought would fit in an 8 and they are a bit snug and that is not a big deal at all! The fact that I could pull them over my thighs, button them, zip them, AND there was NO muffin top put a BIG smile on my face! I am very happy with my progress and I hope I can continue to push myself through moments like today when I don't feel like doing anything! So, here are my scores from this morning...

Workout: 12 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds rest between [Do each sequence 3 times] #1 1 leg push up & jump over [ 8, 8, 8 ]
*I did not have a sand bag, so I just jumped side ways as if I were jumping over something
#2 Side straddle run & burpee with tuck jump [ 9, 9, 10 ]
*Again, I did not have the equipment so I did a side run as if doing tires for a 4 count and then dropped down and did my push up with one leg extended and one knee on the ground. Also, alternate legs that you extend as you go from side to side.
#3 Squat & woodchuck - alternate sides [ 22, 23, 25 ]
*I do not have the equalizer so I used my fitness ball
#4 Plank jump using a chair [ 52, 60, 60 ]
*My fitness ball is not as stable as the Ugi ball so I used a dining room chair

This is one workout that again proves you do not need equipment to do these workouts. All you need is motivation and a positive attitude and you will achieve the goal(s)  you are striving for! I am glad I got up this morning and pushed myself to become a healthier April!! Here's to Day 2 Week 4! Until tomorrow...

April **My word for today is Push**

Day 5 Week 3 of the 30 Day Challenge

WOW!! I cannot believe I am writing this blog this early in the day! My day started with my alarm going off at 6:10am and 6:20am...like normal. However, today...like the last 2 days...all I could think about was working! I "contemplated" with myself for the better part of 50 minutes before finally realizing that if this was going to happen I needed to get my butt out of bed and get moving! I had not looked at the workout for today yet because I usually do that at night. However, my love is going back to work Sunday :( and I didn't want to interfere with out plans for this evening by having to workout first. (Not that he would have minded!) So...I did it! I made the decision to get up and do the 800 rep challenge this morning and OMG I have so much energy right now! I feel like I am on an endorphin high!! And, it feels great! I was even up throughout the night with both of my loves who did not feel good, and still got up and did my routine! If that's not motivating I don't know what is!! So, without further delay...here is the workout!

Workout: 800 Rep Challenge (Time each session and do twice)
#1 25 Push ups [ 48 seconds, 50 seconds ]
#2 100 High knees [ 32 seconds, 33 seconds ]
#3 25 Tuck jumps [ 43 seconds, 38 seconds ]
#4 100 High knees [ 33 seconds, 33 seconds ]
#5 25 Squats [55 seconds, 51 seconds ]
#6 100 High knees [32 seconds, 31 seconds ]
#7 25 Tricep curls [42 seconds, 37 seconds ]
*I did not have the equalizer bar this workout, so for this exercise I did tricep extensions with a 5lb weight in each hand, bend your knees and extend your arms behind you. I did both arms at the same time.

I feel so good right now! I hope this will motivate me to do my workouts in the morning for the last week of this challenge. I also noticed that the first thing I grabbed was not a chocolate granola bar like I have done all week...but instead, I grabbed a bag of apple slices and a glass of water! Way better for me! :) Remember, you are your biggest motivator and biggest fan...so give yourself some support and get moving!! Try a morning workout and let me know how it affected you!! Here's to Day 1 Week 4!! Until Monday...

April **My word for today is Decision**

Day 4 Week 3 of the 30 Day Challenge

Day 4 Week 3 was great! I did not have the equipment that Lisa used, but I improvised. I also did the workouts to my level of expertise. I was not able to do each exercise she did the way she did it. I did my best though and that is all that matters!! Here is my workout for today...

Workout: 12 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds between them (Do 3 times)
#1 Over/Under equalizer bar [ 17, 22, 23 ]
*I do not have the bar, so I did a very deep squat and then held the seat of a chair and jumped as if jumping over the seat. 
#2 1 x Over/1 x Under elevated push up (alternate legs after 5) [ 8, 9, 10 ]
*I did girls push ups and brought my knee in after a push up and then did a leg raise after the next push up. I did this 5 times before switching legs. So, I actually did [ 16, 18, 20 ] push ups because I counted a push up, knee in, push up, leg raise as 1.
#3 Side plank leg lifts left side [ 23, 29, 34 ]
*Of my totals I did 12 out of 23, 14 out of 29, and 19 out of 34 with my leg completely raised.
#4 Side plank leg lifts right side [ 30, 32, 33 ]
*Of my totals I did 3 out of 30, 18 out of 32, and 20 out of 33 with my leg completely raised. 

Additionally I did 100 abs and 50 switch lunges. The abs are broken down as follows:
10 straight, 10 right obliques, 10 straight, 10 left obliques, 10 straight, 10 arms raised, 10 arms straight out in front, 15 right obliques, and 15 left obliques. 

The plank raises were quite challenging, but I think over time they will be very effective. I can already tell that my legs are toning up...a lot! Even Scott told me he could see a huge difference in my booty area! :) That made me feel really good! It also helps to motivate me to keep going and do more. I hope this motivates you to do more too! Good luck and here's to Day 5 Week 3! Only one more week!! Until tomorrow...

April **My word for today is Toned**

Day 3 Week 3 of the 30 Day Challenge

At 5:00a.m. I rolled over and looked at the clock...my first thought was, "I could get up right now and do my workout. It's only 12-15 minutes." It would start my day off good and I would be more energized for my work day. Instead...what actually happened was after that thought my little one rolled over, coughed in my face, started crying, and grabbed my neck tight and went to sleep. I fought the thought for the next hour and 10 minutes until my first alarm went off. At that moment I wished I would have gotten up and done the workout. I think I have more time and concentration then to get my workout done, especially once Scott leaves when I have to do it all by myself and don't have someone to occupy Khloe while I workout. I need to tap into my will power and make myself get up and do it! When I looked at the website I noticed there was a glitch in their system, so today's workout will be the same as Day 3 Week 2 and I added one more sequence to the workout for a total of 14 minutes. 

Workout: 14 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds between each
#1 Clean and Press [ 14, 20 ]
#2 Squat Leaps [ 29, 30 ]
#3 3 Tier Push-Ups [ 15, 17 ]
**I did girl push ups
#4 Reverse Pull ups [ 15, 20 ]
**I did dips with a chair
#5 Squat and Press [ 22, 23 ]
#6 Switch Lunges [ 38, 40 ]
#7 Side Leap using ball [ 42, 46 ]
**I added this last one to make the workout longer since I did not do Sean's workout

I am proud of myself for getting to motivation to do this workout this evening. Now, I would like to get that same motivation in the morning and get up and do it early to help me start my day. Does anyone workout in the morning? If so, how does it help you with the rest of your day? I would love to hear from you! Here's to Day 4 Week 3! Until tomorrow...

April **My word for today is Will Power**

Day 2 Week 3 of the 30 Day Challenge

Today was crazy!! Not work...but the workout! Each section was  broken into 30 second workouts and there are 24 workouts to do!! 16 minutes of intense body rockin' just happened! By the way...Happy Valentine's Day! Just because it is a holiday that is full of candy and treats...doesn't mean you should give in! Don't let your guard down, be strong, focus on your goal and push through! I have to say for me...today my word of the day is encouragement. Each of you that has followed my progress has encouraged me to push forward toward my goals. I want to thank each of you for encouraging me, you are all wonderful!! I hope that my journey can encourage you to seek and fulfill your goals too! Here's my workout :) 

Workout: 24 sequences with 30 second intervals and 10 second rests in between
#1 Push up + Burpee + Tuck jump [ 6 ]
#2 High knees [93 ]
#3 Switch knees [25 ]
#4 High knees [95 ]
#5 Press up spider knees [ 14 ]
** I did real push ups here and went all the way down!!
#6 High knees [ 95 ]
#7 High knees x 10 + Mountain climbers x 10 [ 4 ]
#8 High knees [ 92 ]
#9 Side burpee + Obliques [ 6 ]
#10 High knees [ 94 ]
#11 Push up + Side plank twist + oblique drop [ 7 ]
** I did girl push ups here
#12 High knees [96 ]
#13 V abs left **I did obliques, like a half bicycle** [ 18 ]
#14 High knees [ 95 ]
#15 V abs right **I did obliques, like a half bicycle** [ 18 ]
#16 High knees [ 97 ]
#17 Hug knees + Star jack [ 21 ]
#18 High knees [96 ]
#19 Single toe touch abs [ 17 ]
#20 High knees [ 95 ]
#21 Squat jumps [ 30 ]
#22 High knees [ 98 ]
#23 1/2 Burpee + press up [ 10 ]
#24 High knees [110 ]

This workout was intense and well worth it! I am glad I pushed myself..again...and persevered. Remember to always see the light at the end of the tunnel. The long term benefits of your positive choices will out weigh the short term anguish you think you feel. Tell how you are doing? What are your numbers for the first 2 weeks workouts? What do you do to alter workouts to contour the session to your needs? I look forward to hearing from each of you everyday! As much as you motivate me by checking out my blog, it also encourages and motivates others to hear your progress too! Here's to Day 3 Week 3! Until tomorrow... 

April **My word of the day is Encouragement**

Day 1 Week 3 of the 30 Day Challenge

Woo Hoo!!! Week 3!! I am pumped! I did the fit test again and did great! I, however, did not feel up to the Challenge today. I was mentally drained when I got home! My head hurt, my eyes were tired, and I had no desire to workout today...but I knew it would be a pivotal day for my working out so I pushed myself to get dressed and do my workout. I am also posting pictures today to show my progress after 2 weeks of working hard! I even went to a Mardi Gras Ball Saturday and the dress I bought was an 8. I was so excited that I was in an 8...a place I had not been in almost ever!! I bought it a week before I started Body Rockin' and when I put it on Saturday...it...was...too...big!!! WHAT?! I could not believe what I was seeing! I have only lost 2 pounds in the last 2 weeks, but weight was not what I was looking to lose. I worked out hard last year from May to October and did my first ever Triathlon. I continued to lose weight from my intense workouts from October to January (when I did absolutely nothing...which was a bad decision!). I am now 15 pounds smaller than from before I got pregnant with my little love :) So, weight I am not concerned with, it's my toning. I want to cross train for my Triathlon that I am doing this year in October and Body Rockin' is amazing! I don't have the time to go on a 20 mile bike ride, or run 4 miles, or swim 1000 yards after work everyday or even one day a week! This exercise regime is a great way for me to get short intense workouts in and stay in shape in the off season. Well, here are my scores from the first and second fit test...

Workout: 7 minutes, 50 second sequences and 10 seconds in between [Fit Test 2]
#1 Squat jumps [Fit Test 2 - 30] [Fit Test 1 - 25]
#2 Push ups [Fit Test 2 - 23] [Fit Test 1 - 20]
**I did girl push ups (knees bent on the floor)
#3 Burpees [Fit Test 2 - 15] [Fit Test 1 - 13]
#4 High Knees [Fit Test 2 - 150] [Fit Test 1 - 123]
#5 Switch Lunges [Fit Test 2 - 43] [Fit Test 1 - 22]
#6 Tuck Jumps [Fit Test 2 - 25] [Fit Test 1 - 21]
#7 Straight Abs [Fit Test 2 - 28] [Fit Test 1 - 40]
**For the Fit Test 2 I did straight abs where I came all the way up and touched my elbows to my knees. For the Fit Test 1, I did short crunches halfway up; so the number is not as bad.

Here are my pictures after 2 weeks of Body Rockin!!

I still need work on my lower abs, but I can tell that my obliques are doing better. My arms are stronger...maybe I should have added one with my "guns" showing! Hahaha I am very proud of myself for getting in there and producing the numbers I did. I admit...I am tired! Just remember to stick with it, remember your goals, and remember why you started this journey to begin with. I started my journey to become more fit, healthier, stronger, leaner, and in better shape. I hope that I have helped you feel better about your journey by sharing mine. :) Here's to Day 2 Week 3. Until tomorrow...

April **My word for today is Persistence**

Day 5 Week 2 of the 30 Day Challenge

WOW!! Today was a 600 rep challenge, which I brushed off as no big deal... Until I realized there was 100 squats to be done at once!!! What?! I in no way wanted to workout today. I was convinced that I needed to just do it tomorrow because I had to pack, we were going out of town, and I just didn't have the time. Thank goodness for Scott...he helped give me the motivation I needed to get it done. It was a killer but I did it!

Workout: Time each workout
#1 100 High knees [32 seconds]
#2 100 Lunge kicks (50 each leg) with weights [3:39]
#3 100 High knees [32 seconds]
#4 100 Squats with weights [3:24]
#5 100 High knees [32 seconds]
#6 25 straight abs [35 seconds]
#7 25 V abs left [45 seconds]
**My hip began to hurt so I only brought one knee to my elbow instead
#8 25 V abs right [39 seconds]
#9 25 Bicycle abs [40 seconds]
#10 50 Side leaps using fitness ball [1:02]
#11 50 Obliques on the floor (25 each side) [56 seconds]

I decided to add the last 2 exercises because I did not feel I effectively did the V abs. I am glad I decided to workout today. I feel great and it brings me one step closer to my goal. Here's to Day 1 Week 3 and Fit Test 2! Until Monday...

April **My word for today is accountable**

Day 4 Week 2 of the 30 Day Challenge

Today was quite the challenge. Not because the workout was too hard, but because we had our first Mardi Gras parade here in Hattiesburg and Scott, Khloe and I went. We had a great time, especially Khloe! She was dancing, moving her arms, and yelling beads! This put us getting home at 7:30pm and by the time I got Khloe dinner and ready to workout it was 8:15. I was tired! But, I made myself do it anyway and it was a good workout. I do have to say I did not do any extra today and I am kind of mad at myself for it, but I did the workout that was intended for today and I did it as hard as I could. So, I am happy that I did something rather than nothing. Here are my scores for Lisa's workout :)

Workout: 12 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds between sequences
Do this set of 4 exercises 3 times
#1 Press up burpee + plyometric jump or (squat/tuck jump) [10, 9, 10]
**I did the squat/tuck jumps
#2 Star single toe touch abs [21, 26, 26]
#3 Sit squat & jump using the pink sand bag [20, 25, 25]
#4 Ugi ball mountain climbers x 10 + ugi ball toe touches x 10 [5, 6, 5.5]
**I did not have the ugi ball so I used a chair

Today's workout was different, but challenging. I loved the star single toe touch abs! They were awesome! I am very tired, but again I am glad that I am sticking to my goal :) What goals do you have? I would love to hear about your progress! Comment below and let me know how you are doing! Here's to Day 5 Week 2! Until tomorrow...

April **My word for today is Achieve**

Day 3 Week 2 of the 30 Day Challenge

It's the middle of week 2 and I feel great! I love these strength training exercises. I think I am getting better at my push ups too...even if they are girl push ups!! :) I ate fairly well today...I did have that afternoon coffee, but it seemed to give me a boost that helped me push through my workout...even if it was the wrong kind of boost, I still pushed hard. I did Lisa's workout twice through and Freddy's workout once through.

Workout: 12 minutes 50 second sequences with 10 seconds between [do through twice]
#1 Clean & Press [I used free weights] [16, 16]
#2 Squat leaps [31, 33]
#3 3 tier push ups [14, 20]
#4 Reverse pull ups [I did dips then knee to elbow in a chair] [15, 15]
#5 Squat & Press [22, 25]
#6 Switch lunges [37, 47]

I did not have a sand bag, so I did all of these exercises with a 10 pound free weight [Do 15 of each]
#1 Sand bag swing 26 seconds
#2 Sand bag up right row 31 seconds
#3 Sand bag squat jump press 1:16
#4 Sand bag lunge press side turn 1:02

I really liked the squat leaps, especially after doing the presses. I can really feel the burn in the back of my arms! My favorite exercise of Freddy's workout was the lunge press side turn. They worked my obliques good. Each day I get better and faster at the exercises because I know what I am doing now. Don't get discouraged if you are just starting and it takes you more time to study the exercise plan than to do the routine! Hang in there and stick with it! Here's to Day 4 Week 2! Until tomorrow...

April **My word for today is Consistency**

Day 2 Week 2 of the 30 Day Challenge

I feel much better today than I did yesterday! I had a very productive work day and ate a great breakfast and lunch! I had a goal today to do more and push myself harder than whatever workout I was going to do when I got home. I have begun to find that I can do more push ups and that I have strength in areas that I did not know existed! Today's workout was all about cardio. 

Workout: 12 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds between sequences [Do whole workout twice] 
#1 Box jump + 1/2 burpee [alternate side to side] [8, 10] 
#2 Lunges and swing with sandbag [22, 22] 
** I used a 10 pound weight 
#3 3 point jump + right and left knee to elbow [ 10, 12] 
#4 Side leap using ball [38, 42] 
#5 Tricep dip + knee tuck [17, 13] 
** I did not have a dip station so I used a chair and bent my knees and after each dip I brought my right then left leg toward my chest 
#6 Walking pike push up [7, 8] 

 After this workout I decided to do some abs: 
25 punches
 25 hook punches 
50 obliques - knees bent with arms behind your head and rock/pulse back and forth aiming your elbows at your knees 
25 dance lower abs - bend your knees and put your hands on your hips. I did it to the beat of a song but basically rock your hips from side, middle, side with an attitude! Before you know it your lower abs that never really get a workout will be on fire!! 
Floor abs: 15 middle, 15 right obliques, 15 middle, 15 left obliques, 15 arms straight above head, 15 arms out to the side, and 10 middle. 
 25 dance lower abs 
25 jump punches - jump up and land in a squatted position and then punch 
25 jump leg lift obliques (right) - each time you jump up, bring your right leg toward your head while also bringing your arms toward your knees. 
25 jump leg lift obliques (left) - same as right but with the left leg 

 WOW! At this point I was on fire! It was a great workout today. I like how I am getting to know the routines so well that I am altering them in ways that are truly benefiting me. I hope that on Day 1 Week 3 you too can see my progress. That will be Fit Test 2 and I will be taking pictures that day to show you my progress! I can see subtle results at this point, but I won't stop until the end of 30 days and then see what I have accomplished! Here's to Day 3 Week 2! Until tomorrow... 

 April **My word for today is Perseverance**

Day 1 Week 2 of the 30 Day Challenge

I had the most productive weekend!! 5 hours of softball Saturday made for a very sore Sunday! :) It was a good sore though. I feel as though it helped me stay motivated for my workout today. Since this was the beginning of my "lady week" I needed extra motivation today to workout. It is strange...since the month before I got pregnant with my child (July 2009), I have not had cramps at all! So today, when I got them for the first time in almost 3 years...I just didn't quite know what to do with myself!! I decided that my determination and dedication was going to push me through today. I waited until 4:45 to study the workout and I did not do Sean's weighted workout. Instead I did Lisa's 12 minute workout and 200 crunches. I still feel the burn and even though it took a lot of motivation to look at myself in my workout gear during my "fat week" I persevered. I am glad I made myself workout today. Consistency is a vital key to success in the fitness world. I also know that eating that molten chocolate cake at 3:00pm was a Very Bad Thing! :( It was the first chocolate I have had  in a very long time though...I don't eat a lot of sweets, but I know it did not help me today. But, rather than dwell on the negative, I worked out and pushed hard.

Workout: 12 minutes with 50 second intervals and 10 seconds between sequences [Do 3 rounds]
#1 Press + Burpee + Tuck jump, then 10 straight punches [3 sets, 4 sets, 3 sets]
#2 Press + Burpee + Tuck jump, then 10 hook punches [3 sets, 3 sets, 3 sets]
#3 Press + Burpee + Tuck jump, then alternate 2 straight and 2 hook punches until you get to 10 [3 sets, 3 sets, 3 sets]
#4 2 Mid abs + 2 Bag touch abs (arms above head) [5 sets, 4.5 sets, 5.5 sets]

After the original workout I did 200 additional crunches:
50 on the fitness ball - knees bent, back straight do 10 with arms straight in front, 10 with arms out to the side, 10 with arms straight above your head, 10 with arms behind the head and crunch from side to side for obliques,  and then 10 with arm straight ahead again.
50 punches: stand with knees slightly bent and punch straight ahead for a 25 count, then do 25 more hook punches.
50 obliques: stand with knees slightly bent and hands behind your head, bend your body pointing your elbows toward your knees and rock back and forth until you get to 50. Remember to keep your back straight and abs engaged.
50 punches: same sequence as before.

I find that ending my workout with crunches and ab workouts works my core just that much more and gives me that feel good hurt in my abs. It makes me feel like I did that much more!! Here's to Day 2 of Week 2! Some good rest and a little Midol can go a long way!! Until tomorrow...

April ** My word for today is Dedication**

Day 5 Week 1 of the 30 Day Challenge

One week down!! WOW! I am so proud of myself! Today was intense!! I pushed myself as hard as I could and I am now one week closer to my goal :) Now, just because it is the weekend, doesn't mean I will falter. I have a softball tournament tomorrow and even though sleeping late would be amazing, I am going to get up and make the best of the day! Today's workout was a 400 repetition challenge (75 high knees and 25 knee lifts on the bar station). I decided to combined Lisa Marie's 400 repetition challenge and Sean's weighted workout (Do 15 reps of each workout). I do not have the bar so I am going to do 100 high knees in between each weighted set. Both videos are online under Day 5 Week 1. One thing I loved about this workout is I had something to compare to after round one. It made me want to work harder because the first number was based off of my effort not someone else. I was determined to make round 2 faster than round one...and I did!!

Workout: Using a stop watch this time, time each session [Do this entire workout twice]
#1 15 Half burpee rows using pink sandbag - curl [53 seconds, 51 seconds]
**I used my individual weights instead
#2 100 High knees [36 seconds, 32 seconds]
#3 15 Single leg one arm rows (L&R) using pink sandbag [1:06, 51 seconds]
**Again, I used an individual weight
#4 100 High knees [35 seconds, 31 seconds]
#5 15 Dip station arm ups [30 seconds, 26 seconds]
** I did push ups instead
#6 100 High knees [31 seconds, 30 seconds]
#7 15 Jack curls using the pink sandbags [40 seconds, 30 seconds] ** I used individual weights here too
#8 100 High knees [31 seconds, 29 seconds]

I know it doesn't seem like I worked out long, but I was sweating so bad when I got done!! I opted not to do abs today. It was definitely an arms heavy workout, but a good one. I hope everyone has a great Day 5 and I will see you all Monday!! Until then...

April **My work for today is Strength**

Day 4 Week 1 of the 30 Day Challenge

Sore...that would be the best word to describe today! But, it is a great feeling. It means I have worked hard and will soon see the results of my hard work. Today was a short round of exercises that was repeated 3 times. I liked it because it gave me a goal to "beat" each round. Even though I was more tired each time, it motivated me to work harder. 

Work out: 12 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds between sequences
These 4 sequences are done 3 times so my scores are recorded in set order
#1 Burpee + push-up + tuck jump - 8, 8, 9
#2 Reverse pull up - 10, 14, 15
** I don't have the bars, so I did push ups (girl version) and then knee to elbow L&R
#3 Triple plank jump - 4, 3, 3
** These were so hard...I want to work on my form for these because I feel they can be real effective
#4 High knees - 125, 134, 136
** Each knee up counts for 1

I was very winded when I got done with today's exercises, but still, I pushed through and did an additional 250 ab workouts. I did 10 crunches to the middle, 10 obliques with right arm to the side, 10 middle, 10 obliques with left arm to the side, 10 middle, 10 with arms straight up, 10 with both arms out to the side, 10 obliques with right arm to the side, 10 middle, and 10 obliques with left arm to the side. Then I did 25 bicycles twice for 50 total, 50 obliques standing in a squatted position with arms behind your head and rock from side to side (each side equals one), and then I did 50 punches still in a squatted position alternating arms. 

I am very excited to see what Day 5 has to offer! Then, one week will be down! It is very motivating to see someone like Lisa Marie so fired up about working out and helping me. I hope I can do the same...inspire someone to want to feel better about themselves...motivate someone to get up and get moving! So...what did you do today? I would love to hear your progress! Until tomorrow...

April ** My word for today is Motivated**

Day 3 Week 1 of the 30 Day Challenge

Feeling much better today! I'm not sure if it is the medicine (it is!) or the determination to push through yesterday that gave me a boost of energy today! I was pumped and ready to do Day 3's workout the moment I woke up. I want to note that even if you don't have the equipment that Lisa Marie uses in the video, don't be discouraged! She additionally gives alternatives at the end of the routine for people who can only use what they have at home. I do not have the parallel bars for the dips, the weighted ball for lifting, or the sandbag. Not. A. Problem. I improvised where needed because the mere fact that I was working out was better than giving up because of lack of equipment!

Workout: 12 minutes with 50 second sequences and 10 seconds rest between sequences
#1 Superman push ups - 7
#2 Elevated push ups and left and right knee to elbow - 16
** I did not do elevated push ups, I did regular push ups then knee to elbows
#3 Squat and Press - 20
** I did not have the sandbag to press, so I used a 10 pound weight
#4 Clean and press + jump forward + 3 squat jumps - 6
** I used the 10 pound weight here too
#5 Reverse pull ups - 27
** I did not have the bars so I did girl push ups
#6 Side jump burpee + 2 knee to elbows + tuck jump - 7
#7 Forward lunge + side lunge + knee lift L&R - 10
#8 Push up + burpee + sumo L&R knee touch - 7
#9 Tricep dip + kick out V abs - 15
** I did not have the bars so I used a dining room chair
#10 Overhead abs with weight - 15
** Again, I used the 10 pound weight
#11 Shoulder lift + Squat + switch shoulder press - 9
** I did not have the sand bag, so I used the 10 pound weight
#12 Speed Run - 184

Lisa Marie offered an additional workout with a guy providing 4 more workouts...however I was feeling like my abs needed more attention so I did additional abs workouts. I did a combination on the floor of 10 middle crunches, 10 to the right side, 10 middle, 10 to the left side, 10 middle, 10 with my arms raised above my head, 10 with my arms to the sides, 10 to the right side, 10 middle, and 10 to the left side. Then standing up, I did 25 obliques (squat with your knees slightly bent and rock from side to side with you hand behind your head. Be sure your abs are as tight as possible), 50 punches (alternating hands), and then 25 more obliques. I figured 200 abs would be a good substitute to the other video!

I must say, I am so sore!! It is the best feeling ever! Here's to Day 4!! Have you started yet? Let me know your progress!! Until tomorrow...

April **My word for today is Energetic**