12 Week Challenge Sun Feb 24th 2008

idream

Cathlete
Hi everyone.

I didn't check in yesturday, so I am early onto it today.

I accomplished Imax 3 yesturday, my second time doing it. Totally awesome workout. Loved it but my calves were very sore afterwards and during all the plyo stuff.

Todays workout was muscle endurance and I pushed the weights up and so I'm a bit chuffed. 550 jumping jacks but no jump rope as again my calves gave out! :-(

My eating is still not really clean, but I am improving and being more aware of what I am putting in my mouth. (Still mainly junk) Damn It.

Does anyone else get sore in the calves when working out?
And do you have those dreaded (I won't say it out loud I'm whispering now, bend in closer to the computer)........ those awful "V" blue sticky out veins);( ;( :p :p

I have them in my calves and I am not sure what to do with them. They are painful. Any suggestions?

Lori : Your workouts are not only endless, but HUGE!! You really go girl! I don't think you would have one ounce of excess fat!

Ladies I will read the posts to come in the morning (your afternoon/evening.

TTFN
Andrea
 
12-Week Challenge Check-in

Challengers:

Good morning! I have been stuck in the mud and stalled out with my weight loss for 3 weeks. I started struggling and doubting the first night I weighed in for my Biggest Loser challenge and saw a “zero” loss after a stressful day at work. I resisted chocolate for that! We were weighing at the gym that night instead of the church. The scale could have been different but still. I let that number mess with my mind. Oh, this is such a mind game! Thankfully, my eating has been good since I started this challenge on New Year’s Eve. I have not even tasted a drop of sweet tea! Even my planned treats on my free days are relatively good like organic whole wheat burritos and organic chocolate. I went through a stressful time at work and battled sleepless nights and fatigue. I kept pressing on when everything in me wanted to give up and throw in the towel. I am so glad! Other than my workouts, I gave myself permission to rest and relax this weekend. I am also enjoying a few free days with my eating (without getting out of control). Today is my rest day, and I am ready to hit the ground running in the morning. I am hoping that my body will start giving up the weight when I return to my fitness and nutrition game plan after a weekend of relaxation and planned splurges (with no junk ingredients).

I confess that I have been coasting spiritually too. I have been spiritually lazy and not spending quality time in Bible study. I need a quiet time every morning. I need spiritual food and exercise. I am learning that this is primarily a mental and spiritual battle for me. When I start focusing on my body, weight, and food more than my spirit, I am on a slippery slope. All this to say, my game plan is great for fitness and nutrition. I need to start getting to bed earlier so I can wake up in time for a quiet time. I have made the mistake of putting my game face on physically this month without putting my spiritual armor on. And I am losing battles in my mind every day! The mind is the battlefield. I believe that with all my heart. That is why it is so important for me to speak and believe affirmations of faith. I make progress and positive changes in every area of my life when I believe I can! All things are possible for those who believe!

I am off to enjoy the stability ball segment of Stretch Max before church.

Andrea, where do you live? I read that Cathe is giving international customers a choice of UPS or USPS, so that should help you with shipping costs!

Blessings,
Heather B.

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV).
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Good Morning Fellow Challengers,

I'm sorry I haven't been able to post regularly. I join this great group and then am MIA. My posting time is limited b/c I'm taking an online course - Optimum Performance Training for Weight Management. I'm a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor so I have to take courses either in person and/or online to maintain my certs. The course is going well so far. I plan on taking OPT for youth next. I'm meeting with a new client this afternoon and I am looking forward to working with her.

Andrea, Sweet dreams and check out the blog when you get up if you haven't already.

Heather, It sounds like you have a good plan and you know what works for you. I too, have been spiritually lazy and it makes a difference in my life. I'm in agreement that the mind is a battlefield and affirmations of faith truly help. I am a believer not a doubter. This declaration helps in all areas of life.

Today is my rest day. I plan to stretch and practice a new round I'll be teaching in one of my classes this week.

Hello to everyone else; I need to read the posts from the past couple days. I'll try to catch up with personals.

A friend in fitness,
Shirl
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Good Morning Everyone,

Today is a rest day for me also. DH and I are headed to Kansas City shopping when we get home I will do total body stretching. Iam going to try and get up in the mornings to workout wish me luck.

Lori- I would like an all wt workout DVD I have enough cardio ones what do you suggest?

Have a good day everyone.
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Good Morning ladies

This is the start of week 7 for me on Body For Life! I noticed after stepping out of the shower yesterday the changes in my body! My legs and arms are leaning out,showing more muscle. All my upper body is showing so much progress,my shoulders,biceps are showing more of a cut,and my chest too...so exciting! Its becoming clear that this program is working very well for me!:)

I started bfl on jan.13 and weighed 194.2, and as of yesterday(my WI/cheat/rest day) i wieghed 185.2...pretty cool! :D

And i keep on truckin...Today is a 30 min HIIT on the TM,but first some abb work.

hey to everybody...bbl
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Ok, I read the personals. I probably should have taken notes. ;)

Roxie, I think Muscle Max would be a good one b/c you can heavy up on that one if you want to. There are a couple good premixes on it too.

Kath, No chips or salsa for 54 days! Wow! Are you following a plan or do you just have amazing willpower? You go girl!

Becca, First, I have a gazillion Longaberger baskets. Today is a new day and Girl Scout cookies do not exist today! ;)

Amelia, Good job with the weight loss. It's definitley frustrating when you work so hard and wanted to see more of that hard work pay of. Keep plugging away; you're doing GREAT!

Gayle, How'd the run go? How's the butt today?

Lori, Great workout as usual. I think you're part machine with the way you work, exercise and manage a family!

Jacque, Great workouts! Do you mix your cranberry juice with water? I like to do that. I have to go to our local health food store after church today to get a few items.

Have a great day everyone!

A friend in fitness,
Shirl
 
12-Week Challenge Check-in

Where is everyone this morning? Rise and shine! :7

Shirl, what kind of classes do you teach? Let us know if you learn anything good in your online class.

Roxie, Muscle Max is one of Cathe’s best total body weight workouts in my opinion. Supersets is another personal favorite. Muscle Max is more traditional with bonus band work. On the other hand, Supersets is more playful and uses the stability ball for many exercises. I enjoy both. Supersets is more fun (as produced but there are tougher premixes). Muscle Max is more challenging. You can lift heavier with Muscle Max. If I remember correctly, you recently finished Cathe’s rotation for beginners as well as the Timesaver DVD. In that case, I would start with the Supersets/Push Pull DVD as they are a little more intermediate. Muscle Max is more advanced. Muscle Max, of course, is less expensive with only a single workout on the DVD with a few premixes.

Amelia, I am rejoicing with you.

Blessings,
Heather B.

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV).
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Good morning ladies! Happy Sunday! The sun is shining and it's a GORGEOUS (but cold) day out there!!!

Amelia-I'm doing the HAPPY DANCE with you! you've come a LOOOOOOONG WAY, baby, and you're gonna keep on TRUCKIN' forward to MORE progress! I'm so proud of you!

This morning, for me, was my long run of 10 miles on the TM! I really DID NOT want to do it on the TM, but the icy roads just are NOT worth the risk of falling and getting hurt. So I used iTread set 6 (60 minute outdoor set) for the first 6.25 miles, then I just listened to music on my iPod and increased and decreased the speed and hill every song, till I hit my 10 miles.

(oh, and Shirl, my legs weren't so bad once I hit, like, mile 4! LOL)

The kids and I are going to have breakfast, then watch Terminator 2. (we saw the first one last night, and we'll see the third one tonight...the kids love movies like that). Then we have DS' basketball game this afternoon, the SO's DS' game right after. Quiet day, though....all fun family stuff!

KEEP ON TRUCKIN', LADIES! Let's set this week ON FIRE!

Gayle
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Hi Heather, I teach a variety of classes; Turbo Kick, PiYo, Cardio Kickbox, Core Cardio, Cardio Drill, Boot Camp, Circuit and I throw in step occasionally. I live in a small community and work at a corporate gym. Most of the members are men and they make up the majority of my classes. The choreography is very basic to keep them coming. They like athletic, drill style classes. I teach Turbo and PiYo at another studio in town. I'll let you know if there's anything new or interesting.

Roxie, I agree with Heather. I love SS/PP! I feel it's underrated. There are fantastic premixes on this one!

Time for church - have a great day!

A friend in fitness,
Shirl
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Hi Challengers:

Shirl - I teach step aerobics, step intervals and a walking interval class in a small community, too. I'm DESPERATE to teach some new and different classes. Yours sound wonderful!!!! Are you certified in all of those classes? Can you give me any tips or ideas on how to get information on teaching those different kinds of classes? I'm so intrigured now. :)

Today I finally feel back 100%, it's been a long haul with this walking pneumonia, but I think life is back to 'normal'. (scary)

Todays workout will be on the TM with a run and maybe some TJ Ab Jam, too. I'm hoping to run as much as I can up to 3 miles. I haven't done much for a while so we'll see how the body reacts. :eek:

Have a great day everyone! I'll be back later.
Marcia.
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Hi Marcia,

I'm certified in group fitness and personal training and attend several trainings a year to keep my classes fresh and to get new ideas. I am certified in Turbo Kick and PiYo as well; you can go to http://turbokick.com/ for more information about these formats. If you like Turbo Jam, you'll Love Turbo Kick! Sorry that you had walking pneumonia but happy to hear you're feeling 100%.

A friend in fitness,
Shirl
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Good Morning:)

I feel much better after a couple of hours in my own bed after work! Last night shift tonight:) Almost over!

Today is suppose to be a rest day but I won't be taking one. Im not sure what i will be doing but it will be something. I will report back when that is done.

Andrea** I know it is hard to eat clean alot of the time. I have a habit of baking stuff and I am the only one in the house who eats sweets! LOL SO I either eat them all, send them to DH's work or after test tasting to much, I throw it in the garbage:+ But then, only to get bored again and bake something else}( Its an endless cycle! hehe

Heather** Sorrt to hear you weightloss as stalled! Thats to bad! As healthy as you eat,something as to give. Have you been counting cals?

Gayle** Good job on the run today! Woo Hoo! I to would rather run outside but there is no way these st's are ready yet. Enjoy your day with your boys!

Marcia** Glad to hear you are feeling better.Sometimes the road to recovery is longer then we like!

Ameila** Ha, you have to be seeing muscle girl!:) You have been working hard and eating soooo clean. Lets just say you have more will power then I~!

Roxie** My favs are PH,MM and ME. Im not into supersets or push pull at all. Ive only used them a handful of times but after no DOMS I have never bothered with them. I thought about selling them but they are VHS workouts and I probably wouldn't get for them what they are worth for me. Then there is always the thought that I may start a rotation that calls for them. So if you were to buy just one, buy Muscle Max. If you have the extra coin and don't have the GS's at all...i would suggest getting GS UB and LB! They are awesome workouts! And my fav!

Shirl** You don't have to explain to me about checking in! LOL I kind of come and go in some threads.Its so easy to check in first thing in the morning cause I am drinking my coffee and DS is playing but as the day goes by it gets harder.

I don't think I missed anyone but its quit possible that I did!
Have a good day everyone!
Lori:)
 
12-Week Challenge Check-in

Lori, I am not a calorie counter by nature as the numbers make me obsessed, but I have been keeping a journal and saving my menus for such a time as this. My trainer encouraged me to increase my calories from 1,400 to 1,800. I did last week and still maintained, but I maintained on more food and calories. I have been busy at work and not drinking enough water. I usually drink a gallon a day. It took 4 days for me to drink a gallon last week! My fingers are puffy, and my rings are tight. I have not been sleeping restfully at night either. I am confident that the scale will start showing progress again when I get my sleep and water intake back on track. Oh, my waist and hips are getting smaller. The only thing that is stuck is my scale weight.

Blessings,
Heather B.

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV).
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Hello, everyone!

Can't remember the last time I checked in (Wednesday?). The kids didn't have school Thursday and Friday so we went to an indoor waterpark resort. It was a lot of fun until DS who spent almost every waking minute in the water developed a painful rash Friday night. After that he didn't want to go anywhere near the water! Can't say I blame him. Another family we know was at the same place and their 2 kids also came down with a rash. Hmmmm. . . someone is not maintaining their chlorine and ph levels very well I think. DS is fine now anyway.

Eating was relatively under control. I ate more than usual but all the walking and stair climbing gave me a huge appetite. I weighed in this morning and I'm the same. Speaking of weighing in, do you like my new weight tracker? :7 Losing 28 pounds is my ultimate goal but I had hoped to lose 15-18 by the end of 12 weeks. I think I have 4 weeks left so I need to really buckle down. I'll be in Dallas for one of those weeks though (work) so don't know how eating or exercise will go that week.

As far as workouts go:
Thursday - KPC before we left
Friday - 20 min. on treadmill and 20 min. on recumbent at hotel plus TONS of walking
Saturday - HSC
Sunday - ? (cardio of some sort)

Sorry I don't have time for personals. Just know that we all have the same struggles and challenges so don't feel like you're in this alone and no matter what DON'T QUIT!

Gotta go get that workout in now. Celebrating my mom's birthday later today. She turned 86 on Friday (she was 42 when she had me). I bought her a beautiful cranberry vase and can't wait to see the expression on her face when she opens it up. (Feels like Christmas!)

Take care everyone,
Sue
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Heather** I know that sometimes we only look at the progress the scale shows but we should go by other things. Since i started lifting heavy the scale as went up about 4 lbs for me. My measurements did go up a little but now they are back down. You have alot of support with your own trainer so Im sure you get lots of tips about what you should try. You also must be holding a bit of water with your fingers swollen like that, sometimes I feel the same way! Hope you start seeing the progress you want, I know it can be fustrating to keep going at times.

Lori:)
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Well, I didn't go to church, DS is too sick.

Lori, I bet you'd get some DOMS if you had SS/PP on DVD - great premixes. I like the 3 set premixes.

Sue, It's always fun to give a gift you know someone is going to love. Hope you have a great day.


A friend in fitness,
Shirl
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Good morning all !

Yesterday didn't turn out well for me in either the exercise or eating dept.

Was doing great until late afternoon when all of a sudden I felt warm and weak. The only thing that helps me with that is a quick dose of chocolatex(

Unfortunately it was about 15 minutes before I had planned on getting my WO in so was not feeling up to it at all. Guess yesterday was my rest day.

Think I will do my cardio today and finish my week's 4DS tomorrow since I have legs left and weekdays work great for weights for me.

Will hunker down on the eating today too - will just need to stop during my day while working on my household "projects" and eat. Even though I'd rather be home during the week just chatting with y'all and working out, while I'm at work it is soooo much easier to keep my eating in check:+

Andrea - I was so feeling like an Imax yesterday - will do one today but think I'll go with one of the other two since 3 is my fav and I have been neglecting my older workouts. I don't notice much calf soreness anymore since I use my TM quite often and the inclines have helped them to get stronger.

Heather - those darn plateaus are a bugger, but if you just recently added the additional calories and had your water intake down, I bet next week will be a good one for you. So happy to hear you are continuing your positive attitude and keeping up with your challenge:7

Shirl - glad to see you're back with us. Most of us go MIA occasionally, but the point is the motivation and the consistency with our workouts and eating. I have so little willpower once I get on the computer that sometimes it is better I stay away and workout instead;) Sure sounds like you have fun with your teaching - I would much rather be doing that than some of the things I get to do at work.

Roxie - have fun shopping and enjoy your rest day. I don't have enough time or energy when it comes to a full workout before work (4:30 would be too early for me to get up cuz my bod is used to a 10 or 11 P.M. nitey nite time), but have been getting up and hitting the TM for 30 min every morning. I absolutely love the added decrease in weight/size it is making for me and feel so much more energetic during the day. I'll be thinking of you in approx 20 hours or so, wondering if you are up with me:p

Amelia - Woo Hoo ! Great job on staying consistent and making this whole challenge work to your advantage. The results are so nice to see when we work hard aren't they?

Gayle - with all you ladies and your running long distances I am getting very motivated. Seems like the running (really jogging in my case) is helping me slim down. I think I am going to shoot for some longer distances and see if I can get anywhere close to you, Lori and Kath:eek: I'm with ya on setting next week ON FIRE}( Let's go Challengers ! Have fun with your movies and games today and boys (SO included).

Marcia - glad to hear you are pretty much back on track finally. Sure kills me when I can't workout cuz I'm sick or not feeling well. Have a good week back.

Lori - I know you're a strong one, but I have such a hard time when my sleep patterns are interrupted - glad you got a few good hours in. Hope you have a good workout today. Next week will I am definitely trying your TM/weights workout when I hit a circuit day:+

Sue - you sure have been busy ! Sounds like fun though - as much as I love the "freedom" of not having young children around that are dependent on me, I sure miss the days where we did the park or sports days. Mine are all grown and basically on their own (though one is living here) and now I am waiting for my 6 month old grandson to get a bit bigger - then I'll be back in the saddle again but will be the "Soccer Grandma" instead of the "Soccer Mom":p It is hard to stay on track when you are so busy - but living life is what it is all about and you are definitely still sticking with your plan. Hope you have a kicka$% week and drop a couple lbs.

Happy Sunday to all - off to clean fridge and see what I have lurking in my 2nd freezer???
:7
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Hey everyone! Yesterday was my "rest" day - meaning I didn't find time to WO even though I wanted to. SOOOO I made extra sure to get in a good one today - iClimb5 - 40min. Enjoyed this one - the time really flew by! Got new cross-trainers yesterday, so I'm looking forward to a step WO tomorrow - I think either LIC cardio premix or CF step only premix. Didn't try the new shoes on the elliptical - I've found that my little toes go to sleep on the ellip in the CT shoes, but not in my running shoes, so there you have it.

Roxie, I like PUB for arms - again one where you can max as heavy as you want to. I also like ME for all around, and L&G for legs.

Gayle, smart to do your run on the TM. I MUCH prefer WO outside, though.

Went to my WW meeting yesterday - I'm disgusted w/ myself cuz I haven't managed to lose a single # since starting this challenge. The meeting was helpful - topic was focusing on positive thoughts and actions, which I definitely need. I feel more energized to WO and eat right than I have in a long time. We'll see what the next few weeks have in store...

OK, I'd better scoot! Need to hit the shower & shave a few body parts before taking the kids to the pool @ the gym this afternoon. Hope you have a great day!
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Afternoon Girl :) :) :)

Hope everyone is having a great Sunday :)

Today is my rest day. Was going to throw in a small run --but I know my body would appreciate the rest. Give my muscles a chance to grow :) and the legs to adjust to next weeks running :)


This is also weigh in day for me. I really do not like to be a slave to the scale at all. I go by clothes and well let's face it--Seeing is believing :) But having said that I'm happy to report I'm down another poud --118. BF is holding at 10% Most importantly is I'm seeing muscle defination. I have abs :) and my legs are more chiseled than they were 7 weeks ago. Im seeing muscle tone/defination in my arms. I mean I have triceps and biceps :) So I'm very pleased with that. Of course clothes are fitting nicer which is a good way for me to know --I'm right on track. My key is I have bene consistant with eating and workouts. I haven't missed a one and whne I feel like I want something to eat that may not be as clean as I like I take abite and say ok is it worth the extra time on the treadmill ? :)

Time for personals:

Heather: Sounds like you have a good plan set. I know lack of sleep or possible stress in our lives can play games with us in our weight loss goals. Get some sleep hon. And stay with it :) You will start to see results soon.

Roxie: Enjoy your rest day

Amelia: way to go on the weight loss You go girl :)

Marcia: So glad you feel better

Shirl: You must be in amazing shape. To teach all those classes. Sounds like some neat classes. Do you have a favorite?

Lori: Are you running or working out right now ? :) I have a full week of running ahead of me. I'm loving this training. I know I'll be ready for a 10K and I think I may start training for a half :) Is DH still thinking of running with ya? Mine did a race with me one year ago. It was the 5K I actually placed in the top 3 for my age group. He didn't like that LOL.

Ok time to load dishwasher and get a few things done around the house. Its one of those bright sunny winter days here in NY. I may take the retriever out for a walk and air :) I know --rest day but sometimes us machines just can't seem to rest :)

I may be back !!

}(
 
RE: 12-Week Challenge Check-in

Good afternoon ladies!

We are a pretty chatty bunch today! I have 3 sleeping wee ones, so we will see how many personals I can get through. Today may or may not be a rest day for me. I may do tomorrow's WO today so that I can be a day ahead. I have KJP on tap. I did BM2 yesterday, everything except the power circuits. I had lots and lots of yummy sushi last night. :9 Now I am drinking gallons upon gallons of H2O to move some of this sodium through my body. DH and I went to the grocery store after dinner and I found Fage 2% Greek yogurt.:) :) :) I was down right giddy! I am not a big fan of fat free, so 2% is perfect for me!

Today my eats have been OK. I had my above mentioned Greek yogurt for breakfast. A bit of breakfast casserole that we had for Sunday School for a snack. Then hot chicken sandwiches for lunch, plus a handful of chips. No afternoon snack yet because DS and I just got back from a funeral visitation. I'm not sure about dinner yet, probably some chicken of some sort. We shall see.

Andrea, if you lived in the States, my DH could help you with that nasty "V" word. He does laser surger for them. I have a few on my shin that I plan to get lasered off at some point in time. WTG on Imax3!! I hope you got a good night's rest. :D

Heather, thank you for sharing what you are going through spiritually. When I first started working out again, I was fearful that I would use it as an idol and devote my entire life to exercise and fitness and take glory away from God. Every now and then I will catch myself doing just that (e.g. I didn't have time for my quiet time/Bible Study but I previewed Cathe videos for hours on end...). I think once I turn the focus back to God and treat exercise and diet as the tools that they are, God blesses my work that much more. That is when I have truly seen the best results. I will keep you in my prayers that you will be able to keep your "eye on the prize".:)

Roxie, Happy Rest day to you and have fun shopping! I don't have MM, but I do have PP/SS and I enjoy it quite a bit. I also think the PH/MIS/BM DVD has some quality weight work on it. Good luck with whatever you decide.

Amelia, you are doing awesome!!! I love to hear results like that!!!

Shirl, if you ever want to make that a gazillion and ONE Longaberger baskets, let me know. ;) The classes you teach sound really neat! Very different from anything we have here in small town Ohio.

Gayle, great run! My DH and oldest DS just finished the Terminator series last weekend. They love the action packed, shoot 'em up movies.

Marcia, so glad to hear that you are feeling back to normal. I hope that your run went well for you.

Lori, enjoy your rest day, if you take it. I struggle taking a true rest day as well. I always think of the people on the Biggest Loser. You know THEY aren't taking a rest day. }(

Sue, love your new ticker! I hope your Mom loves her present. I'm sure that she will.

Jacque, there are very few ailments that chocolate can not cure.:9 I know it always makes me feel better.

Andrea, glad to hear that you are re-energized! I know that it can be frustrating when the scale doesn't move in the right direction. Just stick with it and it will come.

Kath, WTG on the weight loss!! 10% BF is amazing!!!! I hope you have a great rest day. We are having one of those sunny winter days here as well. We came home from church to find my neighbor in a tank top and shorts sunning herself on the back porch. Seriously, it's 32 degrees here! Just 'cause the sun's shining, doesn't mean it's sun bathing weather.

Alrighty then... I think I got everyone. If I didn't, I'm sorry I missed you. Have a great Sunday all!!!
 

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