nkhansen1
Cathlete
So, I had a huge post about each phase ready to publish for y'all, and my computer reset, and I lost it all. 
Now you get the condensed version instead!
Overall, GREAT program. I have done two workouts from each phase, and I can tell you that it is no joke. Each phase consists of five total body workouts: two "front of the body", two "back of the body", and one cardio. Each workout incorporates cardio and abs. Each workout uses weights and resistance bands. Jillian gives suggestions on light, medium or heavy, so you can make your own selection. The training consists of compound, functional, traditional, balance, plyo and isometric moves. Lots of variety. The workouts are truly 30 minutes- there is only a minute of ballistic stretching at the beginning and then a one minute stretch at the end. The other 28 minutes are all work. Jillian moves fast (but not too fast) so there is no rest time between sets or circuits.
Phase 1 starts from absolute zero. Jillian says that phase 1 is to shed those first 20-30 pounds. It's a starting point for those who have never trained before, but it is not what I would call easy, exactly. My perceived exertion was about a 4, and I was doing the plyo and more advanced version of the low impact/no impact moves. Starting from phase 1 would be excellent for those coming back from surgery, recovering from an illness or childbirth, or for those days you are feeling yucky but want to workout anyway.
Phase 2 ramps things up with more impact (tuck jumps and sumo jumps make an appearance) and heavier weights, though still on the lighter side since most moves are compound or functional in nature. Perceived exertion was about a 5-6. I had light DOMS after these. Lots of sweat, but didn't feel like I was going to die.
Phase 3 takes it to a whole 'nother level. Plyo with weights in hand, killer isometric poses, scorpion and jumping plyo-style push-ups, Insanity-inspired cardio bursts, just to name a few things. My perceived exertion was about an 8, and that was using challenging weights with the plyo (although 8s were plenty most of the time!) and really pushing with the cardio.
The meal plan is what you would expect: lots of lean protein, fruits, veggies and whole grains. It also includes a grocery list.
I am impressed with this program because I can see how easily someone who is just starting on their journey to wellness could achieve success with these workouts. They are ramped up in just the right way. For Cathletes like us who may already be in great shape, these would be wonderful add-ons (though phases 2 and 3 are tough), or to have in your arsenal for periods of recovery from surgery, illness or childbirth. These would be awesome for anyone who only has 30 minutes to get a workout in. Jillian is very motivating and tough throughout, and I liked her personality. She's not Cathe, and THAT'S OKAY! She has her own strengths and talents to share!
*For those with little kids running around, some mild language is used fairly regularly. If you don't want your little ones running around saying darn and heck and arse (you know what I mean!), then keep the volume down!*
Now you get the condensed version instead!
Overall, GREAT program. I have done two workouts from each phase, and I can tell you that it is no joke. Each phase consists of five total body workouts: two "front of the body", two "back of the body", and one cardio. Each workout incorporates cardio and abs. Each workout uses weights and resistance bands. Jillian gives suggestions on light, medium or heavy, so you can make your own selection. The training consists of compound, functional, traditional, balance, plyo and isometric moves. Lots of variety. The workouts are truly 30 minutes- there is only a minute of ballistic stretching at the beginning and then a one minute stretch at the end. The other 28 minutes are all work. Jillian moves fast (but not too fast) so there is no rest time between sets or circuits.
Phase 1 starts from absolute zero. Jillian says that phase 1 is to shed those first 20-30 pounds. It's a starting point for those who have never trained before, but it is not what I would call easy, exactly. My perceived exertion was about a 4, and I was doing the plyo and more advanced version of the low impact/no impact moves. Starting from phase 1 would be excellent for those coming back from surgery, recovering from an illness or childbirth, or for those days you are feeling yucky but want to workout anyway.
Phase 2 ramps things up with more impact (tuck jumps and sumo jumps make an appearance) and heavier weights, though still on the lighter side since most moves are compound or functional in nature. Perceived exertion was about a 5-6. I had light DOMS after these. Lots of sweat, but didn't feel like I was going to die.
Phase 3 takes it to a whole 'nother level. Plyo with weights in hand, killer isometric poses, scorpion and jumping plyo-style push-ups, Insanity-inspired cardio bursts, just to name a few things. My perceived exertion was about an 8, and that was using challenging weights with the plyo (although 8s were plenty most of the time!) and really pushing with the cardio.
The meal plan is what you would expect: lots of lean protein, fruits, veggies and whole grains. It also includes a grocery list.
I am impressed with this program because I can see how easily someone who is just starting on their journey to wellness could achieve success with these workouts. They are ramped up in just the right way. For Cathletes like us who may already be in great shape, these would be wonderful add-ons (though phases 2 and 3 are tough), or to have in your arsenal for periods of recovery from surgery, illness or childbirth. These would be awesome for anyone who only has 30 minutes to get a workout in. Jillian is very motivating and tough throughout, and I liked her personality. She's not Cathe, and THAT'S OKAY! She has her own strengths and talents to share!
*For those with little kids running around, some mild language is used fairly regularly. If you don't want your little ones running around saying darn and heck and arse (you know what I mean!), then keep the volume down!*
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