Day 25: Beach Body Bootcamp April 30th

"Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food and medicine for the soul." - Luther Burbank

Today's Update:  
I am not feeling like I will finish this challenge.  I have been missing my schedule and so... I will try to keep moving until my next challenge.

Today's task: Cardio Day
Day 25 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.

I ended up gardening for a half an hour since my favorite plant sale is this coming weekend.

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_gardening.html

Day 24: Beach Body Bootcamp April 29th

"Stay positive! Do what you love in life don't make decisions just to please others, put yourself first and help others when you can." - Unknown

Today's Update:  
I am feeling a little more normal today although I was up last night for an hour and couldn't sleep.

Today's task: Toning Day
Day 23 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a toning day.

Equipment needed for workout is an Exercise Band
Part 1: The workout:
Squat and Twist
Hike and Row
Proposal Curls
T is for Triceps
Rock Band
Side Plank Pull
Slying Sumo
Resist a Push

Since I did toning yesterday and you are not supposed to do 2 toning days in a row, I did a cardio day, a little switch.

For more info and videos of how to do these moves click below:
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/videos/m/38855823/the-beach-body-boot-camp-workout.htm#q=plguid165074

This challenge's breakdown:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/looking-ahead-next-30-day-challenge.html

This challenge's shopping list:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/beach-body-bootcamp-shopping-list.html

Quote from:
http://www.searchquotes.com/search/Stay_Positive/

Day 23: Beach Body Bootcamp April 28th

"Keep your spirits up and stay positive in all you are doing... hard work will always pay off.  Keep Going!" - Unknown

Today's Update:  
It's been a rough couple of days/weeks.  With my new work schedule and changes in my little ones nap habits, my workouts have definitely failed recently.  But, I have to keep going.

Today's task: Cardio Day
Day 23 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.

I am trying to keep going on this challenge.  I did the toning workout today with a medium band.  It felt pretty good.  I still definitely need to do some cardio.

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/failing.html

Day 22: Beach Body Bootcamp April 27th

"It's all about quality of life and finding a happy balance between work and friends and family." - Philip Green

Today's Update:  
I am feeling just awful today.  This feeling won't go away from an exercise video I need a good hour at the gym to make this go away.

Today's task: Toning Workout Day
Day 22 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a toning day.

I am having such a difficult time this challenge sticking to my schedule.  My little one's nap schedule is changing and I often have to choose between a shower or a workout, not both.  I've been mostly choosing the shower unfortunately.  So.... I did not workout today.

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/balance.html

Day 21: Beach Body Bootcamp April 26th

"A wise woman recognizes when her life is out of balance and summons the courage to act to correct it, she knows the meaning of true generosity, happiness is the reward for a life lived in harmony, with courage and grace." - Suze Orman

Today's Update:  
Still trying to find my balance in my life.  Family is taking a lot of time and things are changing so fast.

Today's task: Rest Day
Day 21 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a rest day.

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/balance.html

Day 20: Beach Body Bootcamp April 25th

"It is not a disgrace to fail. Failing is one of the greatest arts in the world." - Charles Kettering

Today's Update:  
My LO left little time to do anything today.  Maybe only a 30 minute nap.

Today's task: Cardio Day
Day 20 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.

Ahh.. Doing nothing is becoming a bad habit.  Old habits die hard.

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/failing.html

Day 19: Beach Body Bootcamp April 24th

"If you're not failing every now and again, it's a sign you're not doing anything very innovative." - Woody Allen

Today's Update:  
I went for a walk today but did not workout.  :(

Today's task: Toning Workout Day
Day 19 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a toning day.

No toning workout today since I did the toning workout yesterday.

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_failure.html#9beHCl5sgRDiMmiU.99

Day 18: Beach Body Bootcamp April 23rd

"Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be." - John Wooden

Today's Update:  
My motivation is very low.

Today's task: Cardio Day
Day 18 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.

I ended up doing the toning workout today.  This week is all mixed up.

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_failure.html

Day 17: Beach Body Bootcamp April 22nd

"Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure.. than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much, because they live in a gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat." - Theodore Roosevelt

Today's Update:  
I didn't sleep well last night.  Life is just a bit too stressful right now.

Today's task: Rest Day
Day 17 of my Beach Body Bootcamp program is a toning day.  But since I did toning yesterday, I did not do it today.  You aren't supposed to do the toning workout 2 days in a row.

I worked on getting my house in order and didn't work out.  :(  Another day of not doing what I planned.  These last few weeks are all mixed up.

I know working out will help reduce my stress, but I just can't seem to muster the energy today.

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_failure.html

Day 16: Beach Body Bootcamp April 21st

"Do not fear mistakes. You will know failure. Continue to reach out." - Benjamin Franklin

Today's Update:  
 I have to try to keep going on this challenge, but I am having a difficult time.  Motivation is dropping.  Oh no!  I just have to keep moving.

Today's task: Cardio Day
Day 16 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.

I ended up doing the toning workout today.   I have this strange feeling in my abdomen like I pulled something.  I hope I didn't do anything terrible as I have had an injury in my abdomen since labor.

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_failure.html

Day 14: Beach Body Bootcamp April 19th

"There is more to life than increasing its speed." - Mahatma Gandhi

Today's Update:  
I almost think I need a reboot for this challenge.  I can't really review the Beach Body Bootcamp if I haven't done it as written.

Today's task: Rest Day
Day 14 of my Beach Body Bootcamp program is a rest day.  I did end up resting today, a nap.  I am exhausted from this week.

Quote from:
http://voices.yahoo.com/25-quotes-busy-people-6014574.html

Day 13: Beach Body Bootcamp April 18th

"With age, you see people fail more. You see yourself fail more. How do you keep that fearlessness of a kid? You keep going.  Luckily, I'm not afraid to make a fool of myself." - Hugh Jackman

Today's Update:  
I am pretty out of sorts this week.  It's been really difficult to take care of myself this week.  I found out my uncle died on Monday this week and my mind is kind of reeling.  I wasn't too close to him, but I am sad.

Today's task: Cardio Day
Day 13 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.
This week is all messed up, so I ended up doing the toning workout today.

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/keep_going.html#sPSK6dZGmBjAFcUB.99

Day 12: Beach Body Bootcamp April 17th

"A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing." - George Bernard Shaw

Today's Update:  
I am feeling pretty rotten today.  I have a bad attitude and am super grumpy.

Today's task: A Workout
Shape Sexy Muscles
Day 12 of the Beach Body Bootcamp starts with the Shape Sexy Muscles workout.

I did not do my workout again today.  This is becoming a bad habit and is probably why I feel so crummy.

There is a note I should write.  For the Beach Body Bootcamp, you need to do the Toning workout 3 times a week and a total of 60 to 85 minutes of cardio a week.  I've done the toning twice this week and only 20 minutes of cardio.  Just need to do a lot the next two days.

For more info and videos of how to do these moves click below:
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/videos/m/38855823/the-beach-body-boot-camp-workout.htm#q=plguid165074

Quote from:

http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/workout.html

Day 11: Beach Body Bootcamp April 16th

"Tomorrow is a new day to be someone you are proud of.  Be positive.  Have faith. And Always keep going." - Unknown

Today's Update:  
I have to be honest.  I find myself feeling less than excited about this 30 day challenge. It has been difficult to keep myself on the right track.

Today's task: Cardio Day
Day 11 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.  Since I missed yesterday's toning workout,  I did it today and then I tried to do some cardio, this time option 2 from the Beach Body Workout but only managed to get 20 minutes of cardio.

Cardio Option 2: After-Burn Blast

A steady and sweaty 30- to 40-minute workout ideal for post-toning

MOVE	EFFORT	MINUTES
Warm up	Easy	5
Speed up	Moderate to hard	2
Recover	Easy	1
Gradually increase speed and distance as you get fitter	Moderate to hard	20-30
Cool down	Easy	2

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.searchquotes.com/search/Keep_Going/

Day 10: Beach Body Bootcamp April 15th

"To fail is a natural consequence of trying, to succeed takes time and prolonged effort in the face of unfriendly odds.  To think it will be any other way, no matter what you do, is to invite yourself to be hurt and to limit your enthusiasm for trying." - David Viscott

Today's Update:  
I can't believe how little rest I got today.  I just had an awful day and to make matters worse I didn't get my workout.

Today's task: Workout
Day 10 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a toning workout day.

I have to do this tomorrow since I missed it today.

Quote from:
http://thinkexist.com/quotations/failure/3.html

Day 9: Beach Body Bootcamp April 14th

"If your life isn't going as planned, take a look at yourself before blaming everyone around you." - Unknown

Today's Update:  
Sundays are getting to be too hard to try to do a workout.  I might have to change my schedule for this challenge.

Today's task: Cardio Day
Day 9 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.

I was unable to do my workout today.  :(  I am just exhausted. This weekend was not very restful.  I moved a piano and a book shelf.  I guess that was my work for today.

The routine breakdown:

MOVE	EFFORT	MINUTES
Warm up	Easy	3
Jog	Moderate	2
Run	Hard	2
Recover	Easy	1
Repeat jog-run-recover set 3 times, increasing run time by 1 min each set	Moderate to hard	21
Jog	Moderate	1
Sprint	Very hard	1
Repeat jog-sprint sets up to 6 times	Moderate to very hard	2-12
Cool down	Easy	2

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_life2.html#42Q0ZiBWXVUXQdK8.99

Day 8: Beach Body Bootcamp April 13th

"Nothing lifts me out of a bad mood better than a hard workout on my treadmill.  It never fails. Exercise is nothing short of a miracle." - Cher

Today's Update:  
It is a busy day today. I hope I get everything done.

Today's task: A Workout
Shape Sexy Muscles
Day 8 of the Beach Body Bootcamp starts with the Shape Sexy Muscles workout.

Equipment needed for the Level are as follows: Exercise Band

Part 1: The workout:
Squat and Twist
Hike and Row
Proposal Curls
T is for Triceps
Rock Band
Side Plank Pull
Slying Sumo
Resist a Push

I am getting the hang of this workout.  I like it and it seems like an efficient use of time.  No big results yet though.

For more info and videos of how to do these moves click below:
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/videos/m/38855823/the-beach-body-boot-camp-workout.htm#q=plguid165074

This challenge's breakdown:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/looking-ahead-next-30-day-challenge.html

This challenge's shopping list:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/beach-body-bootcamp-shopping-list.html

Quote from:

http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/workout.html

Day 7: Beach Body Bootcamp April 12th

"Everything needs a break." - Toba Beta

Today's Update:  
I am sore from yesterday's workout.  The cardio was working.

Today's task: Rest Day
Day 7 of my Beach Body Bootcamp program is a rest day.  I don't know if you could call this a rest day. I was working hard today!

Quote from:
http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/rest

Day 6: Beach Body Bootcamp April 11th

"Motivation will almost always beat mere talent." - Norman R. Augustine

Today's Update:  
I am feeling tired today, but I have to keep going!

Today's task: Cardio Day
Day 6 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.  Since I am doing option 3 of the cardio options since I do not have time to do both the toning workout and cardio on the same day , I am supposed to try to do the Seriously Sizzling Cardio session that is a turn up the sweat 35 to 45 minute routine best done between toning days.

The routine breakdown:

MOVE	EFFORT	MINUTES
Warm up	Easy	3
Jog	Moderate	2
Run	Hard	2
Recover	Easy	1
Repeat jog-run-recover set 3 times, increasing run time by 1 min each set	Moderate to hard	21
Jog	Moderate	1
Sprint	Very hard	1
Repeat jog-sprint sets up to 6 times	Moderate to very hard	2-12
Cool down	Easy	2

So, I did the cardio again with the music so I don't have to stare at a stop watch.  I really enjoy that fact.  I hate trying to do math when I am trying to do interval training cardio.  It's just too much! :)

I wanted to say that I am still trying to do more cardio kickboxing to the music.  The only hard parts are the run sections when the music is really fast.  So. I often end up running during these sections.  The other sections, the jog section and recovery sections I do a lot of jab, crosses, uppercuts and bob and weaves.  I also did jump rope and speed bag.

I have this boxing circuit workout from Cooking Light Magazine.  I used it as ideas to help inspire me during my workout. Repeat combos for desired sets or until you are bored.

7 reps left jab, switch leading leg, 7 reps right jab/ 8 Bob and weave/

7 left hooks, switch leading leg, 7 right hooks, switch leading leg

7 left uppercuts, scissor jump to switch legs, 7 right uppercuts, scissor jump to switch legs, 7 scissor jumps

Left jab, left hook, right uppercut, scissor jump to switch legs, right jab, right hook, left uppercut scissor jump to switch legs, 8 bob and weave

Left hook, right upper, double left jab, scisor jump to switch legs, right hook, left uppercut, double right jab, scissor jump to switch legs, 7 jump rope

7 Left jabs, 7 right jabs, 7 left uppercuts, 7 right uppercuts, 7 left hooks, 7 right hooks, 7 jumping jacks

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.acefitness.org/acefit/fitness_programs_article.aspx?id=2927

Day 5: Beach Body Bootcamp April 10th

"As long as I'm healthy and can keep going that's what I'll do." - Gunther Schuller

Today's Update:  
Sleep has been getting better.  I am tired today though.

Today's task: A Workout
Shape Sexy Muscles
Day 5 of the Beach Body Bootcamp is the Shape Sexy Muscles workout.

Equipment needed for the Level are as follows: Exercise Band

Part 1: The workout:
Squat and Twist (12 reps each side for 3 sets)
Hike and Row (15 to 20 reps each side for 3 sets)
Proposal Curls (10 reps each side for 3 sets)
T is for Triceps (12 reps for 3 sets)
Rock Band (10 reps each side for 3 sets)
Side Plank Pull (10 reps each side for 3 sets)
Slying Sumo (12 reps for 3 sets)
Resist a Push (10 reps for 3 sets)

I have to say I really enjoy the fact that I can do these moves pretty much everywhere. All you need is a band and a doorknob.  I am getting more used to this workout and I feel like it is working.

For more info and videos of how to do these moves click below:
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/videos/m/38855823/the-beach-body-boot-camp-workout.htm#q=plguid165074

This challenge's breakdown:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/looking-ahead-next-30-day-challenge.html

This challenge's shopping list:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/beach-body-bootcamp-shopping-list.html

Quote from:

http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/keep_going.html#sPSK6dZGmBjAFcUB.99

Day 4: Beach Body Bootcamp April 9th

"Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." - Marcel Proust

Today's Update:  
I am feeling gratitude for my husband who helps me immensely and gave me some rest this weekend. I was tired! I am sore from yesterday's toning session.  I don't know if I am imagining it, but I am noticing my abdominal muscles getting tighter and more toned.

Today's task: Cardio Day
My Day 4 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.  Since I am doing option 3 of the cardio options since I do not have time to do both the toning workout and cardio on the same day, I am supposed to do the Seriously Sizzling Cardio session that is a turn up the sweat 35 to 45 minute routine best done between toning days.

The routine breakdown:

MOVE	EFFORT	MINUTES
Warm up	Easy	3
Jog	Moderate	2
Run	Hard	2
Recover	Easy	1
Repeat jog-run-recover set 3 times, increasing run time by 1 min each set	Moderate to hard	21
Jog	Moderate	1
Sprint	Very hard	1
Repeat jog-sprint sets up to 6 times	Moderate to very hard	2-12
Cool down	Easy	2

I created my own cardio kick boxing/dance routine to the music again.  I think it was working.  I think I might have to make up a routine that goes with the music for a more definite workout.

If you have time for both the toning and cardio on the same day about an hour and 15 minutes, there are cardio options 1 and 2.

Cardio Option 1: Work Your Booty Off

Butt-firming bonus! 45 minutes of hitting the hills on the treadmill or elliptical (Do it after toning or on its own.)

MOVE	EFFORT	INCLINE	MINUTES
Warm up	Easy	0	5
Speed up	Moderate to hard	0	5
Recover	Easy	0	1
Speed up; increase incline 1 point every 2 min	Hard	1-5	10
Recover	Easy	5	1
Speed up; increase incline 1 point every 2 min	Hard	6-10	10
Recover	Easy	10	1
Speed up; increase incline 1 point every 2 min	Hard	11-15	10
Cool down	Easy	0	2

Cardio Option 2: After-Burn Blast

A steady and sweaty 30- to 40-minute workout ideal for post-toning

MOVE	EFFORT	MINUTES
Warm up	Easy	5
Speed up	Moderate to hard	2
Recover	Easy	1
Gradually increase speed and distance as you get fitter	Moderate to hard	20-30
Cool down	Easy	2

Link to workout details:
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/you-can-do-it/beach-body-boot-camp-workout/?page=10

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_life2.html#42Q0ZiBWXVUXQdK8.99

Beach Body Bootcamp Recipes

I failed to post the link to the meals and snacks that go with the Beach Body Bootcamp.

Here is the link:
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/workout/you-can-do-it/beach-body-boot-camp-diet-healthy-recipes-for-weight-loss/

I tried the Blueberry Pineapple smoothie.  It was lightly flavored, mostly milk but tasty and refreshing.  The magazine says that it is great for a post workout boost.

1/4 cup frozen blueberries
1/4 cup frozen pineapple
1 cup of lowfat milk
Blend it up!

Day 3: Beach Body Bootcamp April 8th

"Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude." - Denis Waitley

Today's Update:  
I was sore from yesterday.  I guess I was really working during my dance/cardio kickboxing routine I did yesterday. I am in a better mood today!  I was feeling pretty low energy and tired yesterday.

Today's task: A Workout
Shape Sexy Muscles
Day 3 of the Beach Body Bootcamp starts with the Shape Sexy Muscles workout.

Equipment needed for the Level are as follows: Exercise Band

Part 1: The workout:
Squat and Twist
Hike and Row
Proposal Curls
T is for Triceps
Rock Band
Side Plank Pull
Slying Sumo
Resist a Push

I thought today's workout was great. I felt good afterward.  Again it took me about 30 minutes.  I used the videos from the website and pause it after each move was shown.  I enjoyed this better than reading the description.  I think I did some of the moves incorrectly on Day 1.

For more info and videos of how to do these moves click below:
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/videos/m/38855823/the-beach-body-boot-camp-workout.htm#q=plguid165074

This challenge's breakdown:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/looking-ahead-next-30-day-challenge.html

This challenge's shopping list:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/beach-body-bootcamp-shopping-list.html

Quote from:

http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/gratitude.html

Just a Note

Hey there,

  I started to label the challenges so that they are easier to read since I have started my third challenge.  The labels are located at the bottom right of the blogs.

Day 1: This is where you can see where I started on all challenges.

Upcoming Challenges: This link is where you can find more details about each challenge.

Reviews: You can find my reviews of DVD workouts

Meal Guidelines: This is where you can find details on meal guidelines associated with the challenges. 

Day 2: Beach Body Bootcamp April 7th

"We must let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us." - Joseph Campbell

Today's Update:  
I am glad to see the last day of the Butt Bible program.  It has been getting old.

Today's task: Cardio Day
Day 2 of the Beach Body Bootcamp program is a cardio day.  Since I am doing option 3 of the cardio options since I do not have time to do both the toning workout and cardio on the same day , I am supposed to try to do the Seriously Sizzling Cardio session that is a turn up the sweat 35 to 45 minute routine best done between toning days.

The routine breakdown:

MOVE	EFFORT	MINUTES
Warm up	Easy	3
Jog	Moderate	2
Run	Hard	2
Recover	Easy	1
Repeat jog-run-recover set 3 times, increasing run time by 1 min each set	Moderate to hard	21
Jog	Moderate	1
Sprint	Very hard	1
Repeat jog-sprint sets up to 6 times	Moderate to very hard	2-12
Cool down	Easy	2

I was wondering how I would coordinate /keep track of what level of exertion I was supposed to be in. Would I start a stop watch and keep track of the time of when I was supposed to start the jog?  After 3 minutes of warm up, start the jog.  When the stop watch hits 5 minutes, start to run, etc.

Then I figured out that there are playlists that had the cues with music so that you just had to put on your shoes and go.  I tried it out and I really loved that I didn't have to keep track / stare at a stopwatch the entire time.  Basically, I created my own cardio kickboxing routine to the beats of the music.  I had a good time.

Link to music with cues for workout:
Use the Beach Body Option music from March 2011
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/motion-traxx-upbeat-workout/id300391393

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_life2.html#42Q0ZiBWXVUXQdK8.99

Day 1: Beach Body Bootcamp April 6th

"All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Today's Update:  
Today is that start of a new challenge!  I am excited to start a new challenge since my last challenge, the Butt Bible, although very effective was getting boring.

Today's task: A Workout
Shape Sexy Muscles
Day 1 of the Beach Body Bootcamp starts with the Shape Sexy Muscles workout.

Equipment needed for the Level are as follows: Exercise Band

Part 1: The workout:
Squat and Twist
Hike and Row
Proposal Curls
T is for Triceps
Rock Band
Side Plank Pull
Slying Sumo
Resist a Push

The workout started out pretty well and then I broke my exercise band.  It was really kind of funny to be honest.  Thankfully I had another exercise band.  It was kind of light though.  I need a medium or maybe even a heavy band.

At the beginning of every new challenge, I am getting to know the moves.  The workout was not that challenging, but that may be due to the fact that I was using a light band.  Next time I definitely need to up the strength of the band.

I enjoyed this workout.  I thought it was really working my arms and abdominal area, key areas in getting beach body ready. The workout took me approximately 30 minutes.

For more info and videos of how to do these moves click below:
http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/videos/m/38855823/the-beach-body-boot-camp-workout.htm#q=plguid165074

This challenge's breakdown:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/looking-ahead-next-30-day-challenge.html

This challenge's shopping list:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/beach-body-bootcamp-shopping-list.html

Quote from:

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Butt Bible Review and Notes

The Butt Bible is a 6 week workout program with 3 levels of workouts with instructor Pauline Nordin.  The workouts are 3 different levels which increase in difficulty.  Each level has a lower body workout and an upper body workout.

Each level is on a separate DVD of this 3-DVD set.

For the 6 workouts, the equipment needed for each workout is as follows:
Level 1:   2  -  20 minute workouts
Lower body equipment: A towel
Upper body equipment: A set of dumbbells

Level 2:  2 - 30 minute workouts
Lower body equipment: A set of dumbbells
Upper body equipment: A light set of dumbbells and a heavier set of dumbbells

Level 3:  2 - 40 minute workouts
Lower body equipment: Barbell, a set of dumbbells, a chair
Upper body equipment: A set of dumbbells, a towel and a chair

Review:
The DVD workout series is supposed to give you the best butt of your life in 6 weeks.  Pauline Nordine is a Swedish woman who keeps the workouts moving with her incessant talking.  The incessant talking might annoy some people and if you read some of the reviews on Amazon it really does annoy some people.  I found it to be helpful in a distracting sort of way because some of the moves were difficult and her talking kept me going and not thinking about the discomfort and sometimes the pain.

When I ordered the DVD set and it arrived, the DVD case said that the workout schedule and the meal guidelines could be found on the Butt Bible web-site.  Well, the Butt Bible web-site does not exist anymore and I had to dig deep through web searches to get the schedule that someone had posted on a discussion group.  No luck finding the meal guidelines that go with the DVD.  This result was a big disappointment.  The DVD should come with the workout schedule and the meal guidelines if it is not available on-line.  The DVDs are produced on demand meaning they make it when you order it.  I think this maybe why this DVD set was a bit on the pricey side.

Each DVD has 2 workouts for each level.  One nice feature is that if you have enough time you can choose to do both the Lower Body and the Upper Body workout by selecting Play all or if you only have time for one of the workouts you can select either the Lower Body or the Upper Body.

The workouts were fast paced with little to no breaks.  Pauline keeps you are constantly moving from one move to another.  Pauline's incessant talking and unintentionally funny zingers make these workouts go fast.  I don't believe that anyone who does this workout will not end up laughing.  Pauline talks about cracking nuts between your cheeks and you think did she really say that?  She constantly says one line zingers like "Terminator style" and I thought what is that was supposed to mean "I'll be back."  But that doesn't make sense.

For the most part, the timing of the workouts is as described with just a minute or two over the written workout time.  I appreciate this timeliness of the workouts very much.  It is nice to know that when I only have 20, 30, or 40 minutes I will finish the workout that I start.

My biggest pet peeve with this workout series is that Pauline often starts a move on one arm and ends on the same arm, which means that she unintentionally makes you lopsided if you do exactly the same reps that she does.  I end up doing one more rep than she does so that I am not lopsided which is not a big deal but it is a little annoying.

Results:

My husband told me that after 2 weeks he could tell the difference.  I think that's pretty amazing for just a short amount of time.  Personally, I can tell the difference with the way my pants are fitting.  My legs are stronger and my posture has improved.

I read somewhere on the internet that Pauline works out her lower body/butt for 1 hour a week for maintenance although I can't seem to find where I read that now.  I think the workout really works.  Your butt will be firmer, tighter and lifted.  I like the results so I might just have to work on my butt for an hour a week to maintain it like Pauline does.

Chart for Workout Plan:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/02/looking-ahead-next-30-day-challenge.html

Diet Guidelines that I found:
http://30daystoimprove.blogspot.com/2013/03/pauline-nordin-more-diet-guidelines.html

Out of 42 Days:
24 Workouts
12 Option of a Cardio or a Rest Day
6 Rest days

Link to workout DVD from:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Butt-Bible-Disc-Set/dp/B005KCIQQS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1361133164&sr=8-1&keywords=butt+bible

Day 42: Butt Bible April 5th

"Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated." - Confucius

Today's Update:  
I am glad to see the last day of the Butt Bible program.  It has been getting old.

Today's task: Rest or Cardio Day
Day 42 of the Butt Bible program is a rest day!  The final day of the Butt Bible challenge has arrived.  I am resting up to start up my next challenge the Beach Body Bootcamp tomorrow.

I was able to take a nice walk outside with my little one today as well.

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Day 41: Butt Bible April 4th

"We shall never have more time. We have, and always had, all the time there is.  No object is served in waiting until next week or even until tomorrow. Keep going... Concentrate on something useful." - Arnold Bennett

Today's Update:  
I am pretty tired today and I just am feeling worn down.  Maybe it's the weather?

Today's task: Rest or Cardio Day
Day 41 of the Butt Bible program is a choice between a rest day or a cardio day.

I chose a rest day today, but I took a lovely walk outside with my little one.

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/keep_going.html#sPSK6dZGmBjAFcUB.99

Day 40: Butt Bible April 3rd

"Don't watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going." - Sam Levenson

Today's Update:  
I am not too sore from yesterday surprisingly.  Does that mean that my body has adapted to be able to do that intense level 3 workout?

Today's task: Workout
Butt Bible
Day 39 of the Butt Bible program is the Butt Bible Upper Body Level 3 workout.
Today is thankfully the final day of butt bible Upper body level 3.  I am over this program.  I am getting bored, but at least the results are showing.

I am still annoyed that she does a backbend pushed up from the floor in the warm up.  Normal people cannot do that and your body should be more warmed up to make sure you don't hurt yourself before doing this advanced move.

Link to workout DVD from:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Butt-Bible-Disc-Set/dp/B005KCIQQS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1361133164&sr=8-1&keywords=butt+bible

Quote from:
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Day 39: Butt Bible April 2nd

"You just have to keep on doing what you do. It's the lesson I get from my husband; he just says, Keep going. Start by starting." - Meryl Streep


Today's Update:  
Whew!  I am glad that this challenge is almost over!

Today's task: Workout
Butt Bible
Day 39 of the Butt Bible program is the Butt Bible Lower Body Level 3 workout.  The final day of the lower body level 3 workout! I pushed it really hard to get extra boost to my final lower body workout from the Butt Bible.

I need some guidance on using a body bar. I bought a 15 pound body bar and it hurts my neck when I use it.  I guess I'll have to try to figure out a more ergonomic way to hold it on my shoulders.

Link to workout DVD from:
http://www.amazon.com/The-Butt-Bible-Disc-Set/dp/B005KCIQQS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1361133164&sr=8-1&keywords=butt+bible

Quote from:
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Day 38: Butt Bible April 1st

"You simply have to put one foot in front of the other and keep going.  Put blinders on and ploy right ahead." - George Lucas

Today's Update:  
I am not too sore today, surprisingly enough.  Maybe I'm not working that hard yesterday.  I have to admit, I am getting a bit bored.

Today's task: Rest or Cardio Day
Day 38 of the Butt Bible program is a choice between a rest day or a cardio day.  Since I was unable to finish my upper body workout yesterday, I finished it today.  It was difficult.  I still don't understand how she can put a raise up to a back bend in the warm up.  I can't do it then.  I can do it at the end of the workout when she does it again.

Quote from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/keep_going.html#sPSK6dZGmBjAFcUB.99