STS DEAL OF THE DAY!!!!!

[jrichards111]

Hi ladies!
Glad you can get new step workouts now! Not me, I can't do it well and lose interest very quickly. I'm sticking to my weight lifting and kickboxing hiit.

Work has been crazy busy. Today I actually made time every hour to walk around vs. sitting in the chair all day.

Last night was Turbo Fire. I noticed that it was kind of easy. I was out of breath but not dying. I think X Train made Turbo Fire easier. I did it for 5 weeks or so and I can tell a difference in my performance now. Even thought I don't have noticeable results, I feel like I'm more fit now.

I love Target, H&M, Forever 21, Gap, JCrew, Old Navy and Banana Republic. Though I can only buy certain things at these stores. Every brand fits differently for some reason.

Tonight is STS Legs!

Have a good night!

Justina

 

[jrichards111]

Good morning ladies!
I just checked out the new DVDs coming this summer. I think I will get the Rockout Knockout, X10 and FlexTrain to start with. How about you?

 

[mini-natty]

Yesterday's w/o was...

GYM STYLE BACK, SHOULDER'S, BI'S!!!!!!!
O-M-G. Love. Now I know why you ladies love GS so much!!!! Holy tamale is it ever awesome . I also took a lovely 1hr walk with Bella. Looking at the snow today, you would have never guessed it was so balmy out yesterday .

Nancy
Here I am gloating about the new step w/o's, and I totally forgot you had a difficult time with step . Have you ever given a 2nd thought to acupuncture or acupressure? I swear it could totally help you out! I will tell you a bit of an embarrassing story . I had an appointment with my first acupuncture session right after I got off from work. I remember feeling as though I had to "go to the bathroom" (and no, not pee). I was in a such a rush to make the appointment, that I figured I could wait until I went home (I can't go #2 in public anyway). So I was sitting there while the needles were being inserted. I could not feel a thing (really, you can't feel the needles). So one needle went in, and I felt the pinch and flinched! As soon as the doctor noticed that, he told me that my...ummm...ok wait for it...intestine and colon was obstructed! OMG could you imagine my embarrassment AND shock! I kinda brushed it off saying "oh, oh, really? That's surprising". But I KNEW he was right. Can you believe that??? Anyway, I was thinking of going back one day for my back pain and just general aches and pains. When I worked full-time, I had a $500 yearly coverage, but now I have none .

Justina
It must be so hard for you to sit all day! I don't blame you for getting up and walking every hour. I remember working in an office during my late teens, getting very antsy in the chair. I looked for every excuse to get up and walk.
Congrats on your results! Feeling more fit is definitely something to be proud of! I should try one of my Bob Harper DVD's to see if they feel easy (they used to kill me).
I know what you mean about how each brand fits differently. I find Old Navy uses vanity sizing the most. I could fit in a size 2 of their jeans, but in Gap I can go up to a 6. It's all good though . I have found to ignore sizing and just go by what fits me well, no matter the size .

Have a great day ladies!

 

[Nanbo]

SAY GOODBYE TO FEBRUARY!!!​

I have to admit that I'm a little anxious to leap into March (even though today is not "Leap Day"). Last night I did Gym Styles Legs, and even though I backed off on the weights by 5# on the barbell squats (since it had been a while since I'd done GSL), I am feeling it today ! Today I'll be doing GS chest & triceps along with High Reps biceps & shoulders. Natasha, I KNOW you will love GS C&T!!!! If you thought GS B,B,&S was good, you're in for a real treat! Please don't feel bad about your enthusiasm for step and my boo-boo foot ; I seem to recall getting all pumped about STS M3 and you were suffering with your boo-boo back . I get very inspired by the infectious enthusiasm that everyone has for Cathe's works of art! I have been considering your advice on the accupunture for my foot, as well as theraputic massage. I just need to find out about my insurance coverage and find reputable practitioners. For some reason, last night's weight training really aggrevated it , I was really pushing my body weight up through my heel with impeccable form and I didn't have time to do the foam roller like I usually do after my stretching.

In a moment of optimism I have decided to go ahead and pre-order the new series including Pedal Power just in case I decide to invest in a spin bike in the future. I may also buy Ride and CycleMax if they show up as a daily deal. It is important to stay flexible in thought as well as in body as we grow up ...I never thought I'd want to do spin, but my body may respond to it in a very agreeable manner, right? And I don't want to miss out on what may be some of Cathe's best step and lower body DVDs!!! I know that my foot can't hurt forever, right?

Justina, even though you may not want to use all the DVDs in the series it may be a good idea to get the presale deal because it is CHEAP!!!! after the presale the DVDs seem to go for $20 a piece. Getting 7 DVDs for under $100 is a great deal! You might get a sudden urge to master step or get access to a spin bike someday???? I like that you get up from your desk and stroll...I try to do the same thing and will even take a walk around the outside of our building to get energized. I have a green band hanging off my coat rack that I play with from time to time and we unfurl a yoga mat for push-up breaks now and then (although not as often as I used to ). My boss went from being able to do 3 push-ups to 54 in a row. He also has lost over 100 pounds during the last 2 years. It's been inspiring and amazing to witness! I'd like to think that I set a good example !

Well my fine fitness friends, I think I'll sign off for now! Enjoy the last day of our shortest month!

 

[Nanbo]

Hello Natasha & Justina!
Hope you have started March out with a great workout! I ended up taking a rest day on Thursday and kicked my butt with with GS C&T and HR Bis & Shoulders yesterday. There is something about GS C&T that turns my upper body into a quivering crazy thing ! My pecs dance like crazy during the tricep work and my tris are jello by the end! Then I did the bis and shoulders chapters from High Reps and I was toast! I could barely hold my water bottle ! I love that!
I didn't do the pre-order yesterday...I'm going to hold out and see what the daily deals bring!
Today I'm doing AOHiit + Core 1, some housework, and READING!!!! It is grey and chilly so this is a good day for all of that!
WHAT ARE YOU LADIES UP TO???

 

[mini-natty]

Hello fit & fabulous ones

Thurs w/o was LEGS & GLUTES (FIRST TIME!). OMG . Can you say legs & glutes o'fire??? What an awesome LB workout! For those have have not pulled that one out in awhile, I would encourage you to do so. The Body Blast series totally rocks .

Yesterdays' w/o was HS (cardio only). I'm still waiting for my gloves .

Wed w/o was CF (as much I could do while Bella was awake). I got to the Circuit Blast section (yes, that far!) and then she busted in and wanted my attention. I got her to do some jumping and trying to simulate some of the moves with me. I had to put my weights away though cuz' I didn't want to injure my child with a 5lb'er . Then she got silly, and so I called it quits .

Nancy
Today is GS Chest & Tri's!!!!! I'm super stoked for it!!!!!!
A few girls from my check-in have a spin bike. If you need advice on which model to get, or have any questions, let me know and I can ask them . Jennifer Love is the most nicest, helpful woman I have ever met on-line! You can always PM her and ask about the bike (she is from my check-in).
I'm sorry to hear about all the problems going on with your foot . And no, I don't think it will "hurt" forever. I'm truly amazed at how you continue to stay so optimistic .

Justina
I think for the download price ($69.00) I might as well get all the w/o's. For me, it's worth it to get the bundle discount than purchase the w/o's individually.

Have a rockin' w/e ladies!

 

[mini-natty]

GYM STYLE CHEST & TRI'S!!!!!!! Cathe, I am not worthy .
I'm in serious DOMS mode you guys . I love Gym Style so much that I'm thinking of doing a monthly rotation with it.
(that was yesterday's w/o btw)

Today's w/o was Cardio Leg Blast minus weights (I made the mix in my blender). It turned out to be about 30min. My hope was that it would be like a hiit workout, and OH YES IT WAS!

Hope you ladies had a wonderful w/e

 

[jrichards111]

Hi fit ladies!
Hope you are having a good weekend so far.
Last night was an off day. On Friday I did STS Legs. I can still feel it in my calves.

That's true. Buying the bundle is cheaper overall. I'm excited to try something new again. I think I will wait for the Daily Deals too Nancy.

Today I rewarded myself with some new workout attire. It's motivation for me to keep going strong. I'm considering buying another yoga mate to bring to work for push-ups, and a band for resistance training. I sit in a cube and a short one, so I don't know how people are going to react. It's for my health and fitness, I shouldn't care what I look like.

About to hit GS in a few minutes. Looking forward to it!

Have a good night ladies.

Justina

 

[Nanbo]

Today was Butts & Guts....enough said !
I love that you guys are doing GS!!!! Happy Happy Joy Joy!!!!

 

[jrichards111]

Hi Natasha, Nancy,

How are you fit ladies doing? Last night I took a night off. I had to put in some study time. But tonight I'm getting back on track! Not sure what I want to do yet. Might have to do a hiit since I haven't done cardio since last week.

I've been watching what I eat (reading JM's new book and watched this documentary about eating better). Last weekend we hit the farmer's market. I purchased almond butter for $14.99 by accident!!!! It's the 360 organic brand. I defintely had sticker shock the next day when I happended to look at the receipt. I can get a good brand a Walmart for $6.99. Craziness. I have been writing down every that I eat in this little note book too. I snack the most between 1-4 pm when I have a light lunch.

I ordered heavier weight again. I think it's time. I feel great when I can increase the weight. It makes me feel strong.

Have a good day ladies!

Justina

 

[mini-natty]

Happy Hump Day Fit Ones

OMG, can you believe my UB is still DOMS'ing hard from GS??? I was slotted to do an UB workout today, but I just can't! That's ok, I'll just do a LB workout instead. I wanted to do B&G, but for some reason my shoulder's are talking to me (FYI- my last GS was Chest & Tri's ). I don't want to hoist a heavy barbell over my head because of my shoulder's, so I might opt for XT legs instead.

Yesterday's w/o was hiit 40/20 + Leslie 3 mile walk/jog intervals. I muted both workouts and played Songza instead: Hip Hop Cardio, 80's & 90's hits, Classic Rock. Great workout!

Justina
Glad you are enjoying JM's new book. I know many people dislike her, but I have always loved her. She really gave me the push I needed to lose all those unwanted pregnancy pounds I gained. I don't like people sugar coating things, and so I appreciated her tough-in-your-face attitude.
Sticker shock indeed! I would never in my right mind pay $14.99 for almond butter! It's good and all, but not that good.
I tend to snack the most after dinner . I think it is mostly out of boredom, and not hunger TBH.
Congrats on buying new workout clothes and heavier weights! I love it when people come over and see my big ol' barbell and 25lbs dumbbells. It makes me feel strong and kick a$$ .

Nancy
How have you been doing?

Have a great day ladies!

 

[Nanbo]

Wobbly (in my upper body) Wednesday!
Yesterday was GS Back, Shoulders, & Biceps with High Reps Triceps & Abs tossed in for good measure. I totally forgot about the shoulder segment with the band! OWIE!!! I had to drop down to my pink band for cryin' out loud ! And my biceps...oh, my biceps were so pumped up....GAWD I LOVE GS!!!!!!! Tonight I am supposed to do Afterburn...I'm greatful that it is not anything with a heavy weight ! Natasha, aren't you glad you've experienced GS????? Did your pecs do that crazy quiver dance during the lying triceps extensions? Mine are out of control at that point! I'm almost sorry to see this week come to a close. Gym Styles always makes me feel like I'm really workin' it!
Justina, that WAS some pricey almond butter! YIKES! I buy a store brand (Harris Teeter Naturals) for about $8 that has no added sugar or oil and tastes fabulous! Who'd have thought the store brand would rock so much???!! Isn't it amazing to see what you eat when you log it all down everyday? I think it helps to recognize patterns of cravings and to get control of them. I also love your idea about using new workout attire as a reward! I used to buy myself crazy shoelaces when I reached small goals to keep myself motivated. Made my feet happy while I was flying around the room doing cardio! And, congrats on the progress with your weights! Last time I bought new dumbbells I was barely able to lift them up to the counter to be scanned when I paid for them and I had to use a cart to get them to my car ! But Cathe has made me stronger...so next time it'll be a cake walk, right?...mmmmm, cake ......

 

[jrichards111]

Hi Natasha, Nancy,
Hope you are doing well.
I'm busy but good here. Last night was STS Back and Biceps. Love the supersets.

Yeah, never buying something without seeing the price on the shelf again! Not safe to assume the price is decent. That almond butter is going back! I never opened the jar so hopefully I won't have a problem returning or get store credit.

Ha, Nancy, the heavy dumbbell purchase makes me laugh. I had to bring the cart to my car too. I don't see many women buying dumbbells anyway where I shop. Actually, I don't think I have ever seen it. Cathe's workouts definitely made me stronger. It's not so hard to pick up my 2 year old anymore (he's a big boy). I think I can toss him around the room a few times now!

Natasha, I know. I've heard people having negative perceptions of JM, but I like her. I like her no bs style. In the biggest loser she has to help people lose tons of weight and it's no easy task. You got to have the in-your-face attitude to make people change and motivate them.

I have been doing well with the food diary. I'm not counting calories but jotting down everything I eat and when I eat. I also note my mood. Yesterday after I came back from having lunch with a girlfriend, I did not snack at all; not even on the bus ride home. I didn't eat until dinner. I was very proud of myself. I wasn't even hungry. Now I'm noticing when I have cravings, and ways to control it; like drink water instead. I could be dehydrated. Another thing I learnd from JM's book.

Tonight I think I will do XTrain!

Have a good day ladies!

Justina

 

[Nanbo]

WAHOO FOR FRIDAY!!!​

I am SO looking forward to this weekend! Yesterday I surprised myself with a rest day (I think the GS week nearly took me out!) and went for a brisk walk (to me 45 degrees is brisk!). Tonight I'll start the Pyramids module with Pyramid Upper Body, tomorrow will be Supercuts, and Sunday will be Pyramid Lower Body...I can't wait!

One thing I need to try harder on is incorporating the 100 reps challenges. They really don't add that much more time to a workout...I don't know why I keep forgetting about them...I guess I have to just write them into my rotation so I will actually DO them ! How are you guys doing with the 100 rep challenges? I have to admit that I really miss the rear delt segment from XTRAIN Legs.

The other thing I'm enjoying is this book by Ken Follet (author of "Pillars of the Earth") called "Winter of the World". It is the 2nd in a trilogy (he calls it the Century series); I loved the first one too. The first one takes place during WWI (reminded me of some of the characters in Downton Abbey), and 2nd one takes place during WWII. I am learning much more from this historical fiction series than I did in History classes !

Anyway, that's my plan for the weekend: workout & read! Of course there will be the obligatory housework and laundry sessions, but as far as relaxing goes it's like Cathe says, "Ya gotta earn it!"!

 

[mini-natty]

Hello everyone

I'm writing as I'm waiting for my sweet potato orange protein muffins to finish baking in the oven . I really hope they turn out! Here is the recipe if you gals want it:
= PROTEIN POW(D)ER !: Orange & Vanilla Whey Protein Muffins

I used sweet potato as a substitute for "quark" because 1) I have no idea what that is. 2) I thought the recipe would taste rockin' with sweet potato. (Anna says sweet potato is ok to use with Whey).

Yesterday we went to Reptilia, which is a giant indoor zoo with just reptiles! This is Bella's 2nd time going, and she absolutely loves it! She even touched the snakes and lizards while the care-taker was holding them .

My w/o today was Power Max. An oldie but a goodie .

Justina
I love the idea of a food diary. I used to do it often before I had Bella, but now I'm just too lazy. It really helps in controlling calories and losing weight. I think I am going to order JM's Body Revolution soon . It comes with the book (I think) so I won't order it separately. I love the idea of intense 30min workouts, and THAT'S IT!! She packs a powerful bang in such a short time. I'm really surprised that you have not ordered Body Rev...yet .

Nancy
Holy Tamale, Gym Style took me out so bad that I still have DOMS -- ummm I did my last GS workout on Sat for pete's sake!!!!
You are not the only one who has had trouble incorporating the 100RC's. Everyone (I mean EVERYONE!) from my check-in just kinda forgot about them too. I'm going to try my hardest going forward to add them in!
Thanks for the book reviews too. I'm always looking for some great reads. I love all genre's, except for exotica and romance stuff. My fav is HORROR!


THE MUFFINS TURNED OUT FANTASTIC!!!!! I JUST TOOK THEM OUT OF THE OVEN AND HAD TO TRY ONE WARM . YOU GUYS HAVE TO MAKE THESE!

 

[Nanbo]

I WANT MY HOUR BACK!!!!!​

I don't know if it's the time change or the Pyramid LB from yesterday, but I am sleepy today ! I need to get it together for AOHiiT + Core #1 tonight!
I've been inspired by Justina and have started keeping better track of my food intake (I use Cathe's Nutritional Program)...I'm taking care to log everything, even a teaspoon of honey. I need to drop some weight and get these muscles to show ! I weighed myself Sunday (first time in a while) and was shocked that I have put on about 7 pounds since I backed off on high impact . That extra weight load can't be good for my foot. Then to add to my horror, I measured myself! Too scary for daytime TV!!!!! Many inches acquired from hips to knees . So, I will cut back on calories and boost up on the cardio! I definitely think a spin bike is in my future! My 51st B-day is on the 23rd, so that may be the perfect gift to give myself!

Natasha, the Reptile zoo sounds delightfully icky!!!!! I love our zoo here in NC, but the last time we were there (September) the reptile exhibit was being overhauled and we missed our scaly friends! BTW, the Toronto Zoo was SPECTACULAR when I was there in 1989! We went in November (brrrrr!) and really enjoyed those indoor pavilions (loved the Australian one in particular!). I like to visit the zoos in different cities when we travel.....Cincinnati has a nice one, too!

Well, I'm going to try to get some energy going here and psych myself up for cardio after work...think I'll tack on the lo-Tabata from Crossfire for good measure! Hope you both have a great workout today!

 

[jrichards111]

Hi fit ladies!!
I haven't been on much because I had a stressful problem I had to take care of; a blown motor in my car. I still owe on it. This is a financial nightmare. I had to roll my current car loan into a new car loan. A new motor would cost me 8k. So I was pretty stressed about it. Today we had to finalize the financing and buy a car. We went to Carmax and bought a full size sedan. We had a minivan. My monthly payment doubled. There isn't much I can do about this situation. We will be doing a lot of maintaining from this point forward. I can't afford not to!

I did not work out this weekend. I studied and also had this car problem on my mind. Tonight I will do GS.

Natasha, I actually thought about buying JM's body revolution a while back, but I bought Hardcore instead or XTrain? I don't recall when JM's BE came out but I picked Cathe's workout instead. I do have a friend at work who bought it. I have to find out how she's doing with it. Bella is brave! I'm scared of reptiles! Gosh, just hearing about them makes me cringe. Glad she had fun though. Those muffins look delish. I have try these. I just bought some vanilla protein powder.

Nancy, the food diary works well for me. It takes work but I think it's worth the time. I don't own a scale. Maybe it's time to get one? I always go by the way my clothes fit. About 1 months ago, I did not like what I saw. I had to lose some weight. I bought JM's book, started implementing some rules, started food diary. I feel lighter now and I think I lost some pounds. I don't see stuff spilling over anymore; well, not much. I'm still work in progress. I think boosting on cardio is a great idea! I'm doing the same. I try to do it at least two times a week. I also take the stairs at work. Small things add up for sure. Whatever goals you set for yourself I know you can accomplish! You are actually one of the most disciplinedpeople I know. I can't wait for you to report your results.

Have a good night!
Darn it, I forgot to pick up my heavy dumbbells at the store today!

 

[Nanbo]

Dang, Justina! I hate your car ! Glad you are in the position to get a replacement, though! Were you able to put your frustrations to good use with your GS workout? So far, I've been sticking to my food diary and keeping my calories down below 1600. I have to admit that I was throwing caution to the wind there for a while . My metabolism is not what it used to be. With that in mind, I am making a conscious effort to maximize the nutrition value of what I eat. I will try to curb my appetite with water like you do! I plan on weighing in more so that I can nip things in the bud if I notice too much variance; especially if my clothes start feeling tighter!

Natasha, hope you're doing well and are finally over the GS DOMS !!!! Is it warming up there? You would love walking down here with the daffodils and cherry trees in bloom! The birds are all busy and the trees are budding out! Feels so energizing! It's our time of the year, my Aries friend!

Last night was an unexpected rest night due to late work hours and having to run errands . Tonight I get to do STS Total Body (hooray!). One of the things I really love about these modules is the variety! I know that sooner or later a "golden oldie" will pop up and surprise my body! Tomorrow I will finish out this module with LIS CSS. Then I'll start XTRAIN Module #2 (it has Burn Sets in it).

I'm still debating the spin bike purchase. A good one is pricey. They take up room that I don't have. BUT....I NEED THE CARDIO!!!!! It's also something that my DH could use to cross-train with his running. So, the jury is still out!

Hope you both have an energizing day!!!!

 

[mini-natty]

Hi fit & fabulous ladies!

Today is Bella's 4th birthday. We had a fun (but tiring) day at Chuck E Cheese this afternoon. I asked her a few days ago what she wanted for her b-day, and her response was "Lego Batman". No, not the toy, the video game! She absolutely loves Lego Harry Potter for the PS3. I have to make sure I limit her time playing though cuz' that's all she seems to want to do . On the upside, it's not just a shoot, run, jump type game; you have to actually problem solve. It's even hard for me! Funny thing is that the games are designed for 10yrs+ and she's really good at them.

Yesterday's w/o was a 2mile walk + GS Back, Shoulder's, Bi's. For the back work, I'm a bit iffy on doing pull-overs, so I did pull/chin ups (all assisted) on my TT.

Nancy
I think if you can swing it, a spin bike would be a wonderful investment. I heard there is virtually no impact and you get an incredible calorie burn.
I think if anyone can accomplish a fitness goal, it's YOU my dear! I agree with Justina. You are one of the most healthy & disciplined people I know! And FWIW, I too will notice my pants a little "snug" in the winter time . I don't dare step on my scale though! I will, like you, eat a little less and up my activity level. You are right though about the quality of food being so very important.

Justina
I'm SO SORRY to hear about your car . Sometimes I think cars are a huge financial burden, even though they are also a big necessity. It's like a catch 22, you know? We get raped here big time with auto insurance!
And congrats on losing weight and inches! I'm so happy JM's book is working positively for you.

 

[jrichards111]

Hi Nancy, Natasha,
Having a car is a big headache for sure! When I lived in NY, I didn't own a car. I took the subway everywhere. Here, it's a necessity. It comes with maintenance, repairs, insurance etc. It is a financial burden. The whole situation made me sick. With just receiving a promotion, my pay increase is going to pay for a car I no longer have!

On a happier note, I continue to stick to workouts. Last night was XTrain Legs. I don't like the floor work much though.

Nancy, it's so like you to stick to your plan! I did the calculation in JM's book (here is the website she recommended), to figure out calorie intake. Very helpful. I have to keep mine at around 1660 to lose weight and 1860 to maintain. It's hard for me to lose weight now vs. when I was in my early 30's. I just have to accept that and make more of an effort to eat better and keep a healthy lifestyle.

LBM: Body Weight Simulator


HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO BELLA!!!!! I'm glad she had fun at Chuck E Cheese. She plays games on PS3? Wow, she's advanced. We don't have any gaming at home. Thought about getting a wii but don't know if it's a good investment. I can see the kids playing on it too much when I'm not around. My sister and her husband are big gamers. They just had a baby last year, so I don't think they play much at all now.

Thanks Natasha! I knew I needed to lose some pounds when my pants started to feel snug on me. And of course I can see the extras hanging when I sit down. Jamie Eason from Bodybuilding.com said "Abs are made in the Kitchen". Such a simple concept and it made me realized; this is 80 percent of the formula!


Tonight I think I will do upperbody work out. Plan to pick up my new dumbbells at the store after work.

Have a good day ladies!!

Justina