Caus is back with a brand new edition

So - it has been quite awhile since I updated, but that's ok. I started the blog as a tool to keep me accountable, and to be honest, the whole fitness/healthier eating habit routine has become such a huge part of my day to day life, the accountability issue has become almost irrelevant. I signed up for the Pittsburgh Marathon, which is super exciting! I have a few friends who are running the full or half marathon, too, which will be a great motivator for doing group runs. We have set up a training team and the actual, scheduled training starts January 4. Woo! I have been running a lot since I last updated in early July. I have done five 5k races so far this summer, have a 10k on Sept 26, and a 5k each Saturday after that. I love running these races - they give you a pretty nice measuring stick to follow your progress, and there's usually a pretty sweet shirt involved with some other SWAG to boot.
All right, that's my quick update. I am going to try to do this a couple times a week, but will be updating daily once I start my marathon training - which will be 7 days a week with the cross-training (lifting, yoga, etc.). Still fitting into my clothes, and have been hearing about how much a difference people can see (in the year(s) since we lost saw each other).... pretty awesome!

Can't believe it's July!

This has been the busiest summer of my life... and I totally blame it on getting older. And for taking on so much extra - two softball teams? It's a lot... but, we only have softball weather for a short period of time in Pittsburgh, soooo... gotta make the most of it!
Two days ago I ran a little over 4 miles in the afternoon, and felt pretty awesome for it. This is a semi-big deal because a) I felt really good after the run and b) I plan on making this my new route. Why the big deal? Because it's an increase in my normal running distance, and the first step in growing my ability to run long distances... like a MARATHON! I am actually more excited about the prospect of finishing a marathon than I was for p90x. I think the reason for this is now that I have done P90X, and continue to keep with the diet aspect of the program and the lifting aspects when time allows, I have come to realize there isn't much I can't do if I put my mind to it. And finishing a marathon is an awesome goal - only 10% of 1% of the entire human population has finished a marathon - what an awesome group to be in!
I signed up for The Great Race 10k run in September yesterday which is pretty cool, because the next step after the 10k is the Marathon! Actually, it's probably the half marathon... but go big or go home, right?
I think my breathing and form has gotten a lot better with my running, which is what is going to play a big part in my ability to do 26.2 miles. But, it's all mental and I'm 100% that I will be able to do it. Once the weather changes and baseball season ends (see no more umpiring), I will be able to dedicate 3-4 days a week to running for probably 6 months leading up to the race. I plan on inserting P90X upper body and Ab workouts in there as well, so I can come out of winter ready to CRUSH ALL THINGS PHYSICAL!!!

And not be fat.

Crazy weekend!

So - for father'sd ay weekend I headed on North to Erie, PA - the Motherland, for a nice weekend at home with the family. There was a lot going on and the weather was awesome, which is always fun. One of the nice things about the trip home was I got to check out the new hot yoga studio that recently opened (www.yogaerie.com). I heard about it from the website of the yoga studio I use in Pittsburgh, and thought it would be a fun thing to check out during a trip home sometime. I had also been harping at my mother to try it out since I learned about it, and she did about two weeks prior to my coming to town. She loved it! So me and mum went to the 9 am yoga class and rocked out to 90 minutes of hot yoga! It was a good workout, and kind of cool to get into a new studio, see a different teacher's style and whatnot.
Sunday was my day of super activity! I ran a 5k in the am with my dad (yay Father's day!), and it was pretty awesome. I went in there with the goal of breaking 20 minutes, and did it in 19:45. I think that end sup being just over a 6 minute mile average - which is pretty fantastic! It was super tough, too, because the first stretch of the course was through sand, and the end was as well. Definitely made my legs feel tired pretty much right off the bat. I'll admit - I was pretty dead tired and had to really push it to finish. But I did! And I met my goal! So... I was pumped!
I went home and took a nap, and when I woke up, my buddy Tony asked me if I could play softball for his team. I cannot say no to softball, so I went and it turned out it was a doubleheader. It worked out that in 8 hours I ran a 5k and played 2 softball games... then had to drive back to Pittsburgh! I was exhausted, to say the least. I umpired Monday, had my game cancelled Tuesday and umpire again tonight - so I hope to get a good run in Thursday evening. I don't mind taking those days off, as I probably sweat off about 6 pounds working behind the plate when I umpire, and my ankles/shins were feeling a little sore after the 5k (I imagine because of the sand running).
Anywho - Next 5k is July 31 in Mount Washington. Should be fairly intense! Still crushing pull/push-ups on the reg and getting softball in twice a week. Daily long dog walks by 10-13 miles running each week... The fitness train keeps on going!

Modified P90X these days

Well, it has been significantly harder to get into a full out P90 regiment since recovering from my elbow injury, but I don't think it has been bad. A lot of what I have been doing is running about 3 to 4 miles, and then putting in about 20-25 minutes of push/pull-ups, resistance band work. This has been nice because it has allowed me to get ready for the upcoming 5k this weekend, and keep my focus on the new goal of distance running. Of course, I don't want to lose sight of P90, but with umpiring as much as I am, I just can't find the hour to do it after working and then being gone an extra 4 hours to get the baseball games in. Not upset, though. I would say that the best thing I got from P90 is the drive to keep working out, even if it isn't exactly the program. P90 MIGHT just have to be a fall/winter/spring workout - because with baseball as often as it is during the week, plus playing softball... no way it's going to happen.

On a bright note, I did a light 3.5 mile run yesterday in under 25 minutes... which is pretty awesome! I can feel my light pace picking up, and am going to start my runs being 4 mile minimum in the next week or so. The marathon won't have anything on me!

Almost back!

So - I am about 90% healed. I plan on beginning phase 3 of P90X a week from Sunday or Monday... Probably Monday so I can have Wednesdays free of yoga because I will be playing softball. In the meantime, I have been running a lot. I ran a 5K (3.2 miles) yesterday and the day before, and have been running a decent distance about 3-5 times a week since hurting my arm. I can do pull ups again, and push-ups a little bit. trying to get into it slowly so I don't relapse and kill my arm! The goal is to move ahead and kick some major butt over the last 4 weeks. Because of all the cardio, I am still feeling super lean, still fitting into all my smaller clothes, and feel great! I am beyond excited to get back into working out on a daily basis. Still committed to the marathon next year. I have a 5k in Erie on Father's day, and signed up for another one July 31st in Mount Washington - which means HILLS!

I am going to try to find a 10k to do before the summer is over - maybe make a weekend out of it if there's one in Cleveland or Buffalo, maybe even Philly? We'll see!

So, the running phase is still in effect, but so is the foot pain. This now leaves me with a bum left elbow/arm and an injured left foot - awesome! The foot was feeling a lot better by yesterday afternoon, and we got a break in the weather so I decided to do an easy 2 mile run... felt great until about 60% of the way into the run and then BAM!, foot starting hurting. All along the outside of my left foot. I am getting so frustrated with all of this I can't even describe it. I realize the elbow is going to take some time to heal, but I feel like getting the foot injury at the same time, effectively limiting any physical activity in which I can take part, is just a kick in the teeth. I went to Elite Runners & Walkers in Pittsburgh to get fitted for a really good pair of running shoes that will hopefully negate any future foot problems. The guy took one look at my old shoes are basically said that it was only a matter of time until something like this happened. These new ones feelt great; they're lighter and support my entire foot. I could tell instantly that these shoes were specifically for running, so here's hoping that this helps!

On a bright note, I sent in my sign up for the Father's Day 5k in Erie on the Presque Isle Penninsula. I REALLY want to be able to get some training in for this, because after how well I ran in Pittsburgh, I think I can come close to a 20:00 time since this course will be considerably less hilly... actually, I think it will be basically a flat run. I am umpiring all weekend, so I will give the foot another 3 days off. If I have time this weekend, which I should, I will at least be able to hop on the stationary bike.

Oh, and last day at the Cancer Institute! Very excited to start my new job on Monday. All I need now is to heal up get back on the fitness wagon.

Running.. a whole new set of issues to tackle..

Well, since my elbow is still in recovery, I have taken to running and did my first 5k yesterday. Learned quite a bit about it... still learning today. The race was in Schenley Park and was the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure. It was definitely a test of my mental toughness, as I only really "trained" for a week to get ready for it. Also, it was substantially uphill for the majority of the race - it was brutal!
I had set a goal of finishing in under 25 minutes, and finished around the 22:30 mark! Awesome... I couldn't believe it. I was (and am still) totally stoked about this. I attribute a lot of this success to P90X. It definitely gave me a pretty high starting point to begin my training, which allowed me to run as well as I did.
I have regained basically all of the mobility in my left arm, but still can't quite put pressure on the arm - meaning no push/pull-ups, meaning still on the DL for starting Phase 3.
Further complicating things, my running shoes are pretty old and crappy, and I have a hurt left foot to show for it. Still, I regret nothing. A 22:30 is an awesome time for me, and with a concentrated effort, I think I could significantly improve that. Today is an off day, I umpire Tuesday, and then hopefully I will be able to run on Wednesday. Well, either run or go purchase a pair of high-quality running shoes. June 18th is a Father's day 5k/10k... still debating which one I want to do. Maybe another 5k, then do a 10k before the end of summer. I am not giving up on the Pittsburgh Marathon next year!

Running.... lots of running...

So, this week has been an eye opener for me. My elbow is slowly getting better, but not as quickly as I would like. I have regained all the mobility, but it's still a bit too tender to put weight on. This basically means no push/pull-ups, which is about every P90X workout... so phase 3 is still on hold a bit. BUT, this hasn't been too horrible. I'll admit I am pretty bummed, because I really enjoyed the daily workouts - and can't do yoga!! - but it has allowed me to run A LOT. I did probably 3+ miles outside with the dogs yesterday, and really enjoyed it. Running in Pittsburgh is an amazing workout, by the way. Why is it any different than elsewhere, you ask? Because running up hills is awful! I've also mixed in Plyometrics this week, and am going to do a little ARX today after the jog. Doing the 5k this Sunday - pretty excited to get timed on a course so I can really gauge where I am running wise. Still excited about training for the marathon. I plan on keeping running as part of my general workout schedule, and will probably kick in specific marathon training in September. Everything I have read said 4 1/2 months needed to train for a marathon, so I figure I'll try and add a little bit to it to make it a less strenuous or rigorous schedule.

Week of cardio, 5k, then onto Phase 3!

Pretty excited about this week. After finishing up my recovery week, I am going to focus this week on getting my legs and feet (and lungs) ready for the 5k I am running on Mother's Day. It's almost like another recovery week, but I feel like it is important to get myself as prepared for this as I can. Also, I hurt my elbow a bit and can't really do all the things I would need to do, so this gives me some extra time to heal up before my last push! Only 4 weeks left of P90X... can't believe it!
I ran for 1.5 miles yesterday, and feel like I could have gone longer. The first half of the run was basically all uphill on Penn Ave. It was brutal, but I gutted it out and did a lot better on the run than I thought I would. Today I am going to try to do the same route twice, which would get me pretty close to the 3.2 miles I will be running for the 5k.
AND - furthermore, I watched the Pittsburgh Marathon Sunday as it went right past my apt. complex at mile 24. I was inspired. I AM GOING TO RUN THE PITTSBURGH MARATHON NEXT YEAR!! Only 1/10 of 1% of the population can say they ran a marathon, and I want to be able to say I have done it! Plus, it will be an interesting challenge after p90x. I am going to look into training schedules and see how I can integrate the p90 workouts into marathon training. Details to follow.

Yoga is awesome

Yesterday was the middle of my recovery week, and the schedule says to do Stretch X; I chose to go to yoga instead. The way I see it, I am getting a lot of stretching in, plus extra - so why not?? I had Karen for class (the owner) and it was the first time I had her as an instructor. She was awesome and the class was definitely a butt kicker. One thing I really love about going to the studio instead of using the DVD is that each class is different. Every instructor has a different style, and even every instructor does a different class each time. Plus, it's great having the help getting in the right position. I think from here on out I am going to make a greater attempt at increasing the flexibility in my hips and my shoulders, both of which do not move very much. Good to have a goal.

Also, I did wheel for the first time! Next pose to conquer... crow. I will overcome! Core Synergistics today, and another Yoga day tomorrow!

Kenpo X

Yesterday was day 3 of the second recovery week, and it was kenpo time! Definitely had a good cardio workout, but my kicks weren't too great this time around. I am still having trouble keeping my balance on some of my kicks, especially back and sidekicks, but I am at least getting the cardio benefits out of it. I think the next time I do this one I am going to have to put more of my focus on balance and setting the kicks up. On a brighter note, my punch combos are pretty darn good. I have definitely been more wary of keeping my elbows in and keeping everything tight, and I think that better form has helped me get a lot more out of the workout. Win!

Moving along, since there is only so much one can write about Kenpo X for the 9th time, my diet is coming along pretty well. I am totally, 100% transforming my physical look. I went with the 1800 calorie a day program, and have been pretty close to it most days. Actually, I think I fall under it sometimes, which is crazy. But, I have been very consistent with eating small meals often, not eating too late and only eating healthy foods. I don't think I have had any processed food in well over 50 days, which is fantastic. Another thing I have been doing is eating a turkey, lowfat swiss cheese and spinach wrap on a multigrain tortilla shell for lunch everyday. It's healthy and filling, quick to make and doesn't weigh me down. I think I have had it everyday (during the workweek) for a month. Best part about it, besides how quick and easy it is, is how cheap it is! Eating healthy can get pretty expensive, but this has definitely helped cut into the cost a bit. Go me.

Back to Core Work...

Recovery week round 2 is going nice... I am definitely in better shape than I was after phase 1, and can tell from a marked improvement in Core Synergistics that I have come a pretty long way in the past 4 weeks. Yesterday was Core Syn and I am not sure how this exercise is only in the recovery week - it is damn tough and seems like it would be beneficial to do weekly, but who knows?! Anyways, like I said earlier, I did pretty well - I remember making a mental note last time I did this DVD about how I did, and I am glad I did. I was dripping with sweat when I was done and kept up with the instructors on everything. A lot of this is yoga based, which is why I think I was able to do as well as I did.

On another note: I got my packet for the Mother's Day 5k in the mail yesterday! Very exciting! I know I would never do this without having gotten myself involved in a workout program/diet, and p90x has been phenomenal for me. My energy level is always up, which means I am always ready for anything! Including spontaneous jogs. I imagine I will go for a jog again this wknd - hopefully each day will be nice and I can get 2 runs in... I want to get my legs used to running since the only cardio I have really done is plyometric training and kenpo x (softball, bowling??)... and yoga is sort of a cardio workout, right?

AH! Finally, I got my black resistance band in the mail yesterday. Plus I got the extra resistance band handles... so now I have handles on each band (no more pausing to change band for different moves) and I have a super ninja intense black band, which is the color with the most resistance through the p90 catalog. Phase three is going to be intense.

Onto day 50!

Makin' moves! Big things have happened in the past few days - all pretty awesome for the most part. Friday I accepted a new position in a different department at the University, so I was definitely stoked about that. Had been looking for a new job for a few months, so it was nice to finally pay off. Only downside to the day was my knee was absolutely killing me! I had planned on gutting it out through Kenpo, but decided to listen to what my body was telling me and switched my rest day and kenpo (took off Fri and did kenpo Sat, then got back on my normal schedule). I don't think this will affect me negatively at all; if anything, I think I got more out of it. Saturday I did kenpo around 10:30 am, and around 2 I went for a 2 mile run outside with the pups - probably would have just been lazy all day if kenpo didn't get me moving so early!
Sunday was day one of my second recovery week, so it meant yoga time. I went to the 10am yoga class in the SouthSide studio, and it was intense! Normally, the hot yoga classes I go to are 75 minutes long, which in 90-95 degree heat is plenty! This one was 90 minutes, and I think a little more advanced. A number of yoga instructors, including the owner, were in class to participate... and they're all really good. Obviously. BUT, I think I had one of my personal best classes, and certainly got a great workout out of it!

Today's Core Synergistic workout will be day 51... only 39 days left of Round 1!

Legs & Back + Softball = tired

Well, softball season has started again, and with P90x has led to me sleeping pretty well on Thursdays...especially considering that I do legs before playing, and I am running around and on the balls of my feet for 90 minutes. BUT, I like getting the workout done before the games, so I am just going to keep things going as they are for now. The only downfall was my legs were just too tired for ARX last night; no big deal though. I got a crazy good ab workout at yoga the day before, and can make it up today or tomorrow. Tonight is my last workout in phase 2, AND THEN RECOVERY WEEK!!! I love recovery week... 3 days of yoga. AWESOME! I like the core synergistics workout, too... and hopefully this will help me get a little life in my legs because they have been feeling pretty dead the past few days. Just gotta make it through Kenpo today after work and I am good to go!

I am also going to add a few 3 mile runs in through the next 2 weeks to get ready for the 5k I am running on Mother's Day. I don't think I will have a problem with it cardio-wise, but I am a little concerned about how my legs will hold up to the running outside without a little preconditioning. Plus, I am interested to see how well I can do with this. I used to be quite the distance runner in the past - who's to say I can't dominate it now?

I hate resistance bands, hardest yoga class ever, i love new resistance bands!

Well, I missed a day updating, but didn't miss a day og P90, and THAT'S what counts! Tuesday was back and biceps day, and I had a pretty good workout, with the exception of a faulty resistance band that kept coming out of the grip and REALLY pissing me off. Somehow, the end of the green band got warped out of shape and was coming out of the handle at very inopportune times. Needless to say, this hindered my workout as every time it happened, I had to replace it and start the series over. NOT happy! I still got a good session in, but it took longer than I would have liked and it definitely interrupted the flow of things.
Speaking of flow... yesterday was a crazy hard yoga class. All sorts of new poses to make me fall all over myself! But, it's all good - I definitely had to work damn hard to get through everything. When the classes stick to the normal routine, and I am very familair with all the poses, I can seriously hang with just about anyone, so in a way it's good that this instructor mixes it up every week - it's humbling, to say the least.

Latest bit of news - since my green band went all to hell on me, I was forced to order a replacement. BUT, this was a blessing in disguise (minus the fact that I had to spend money). While going online to order the green band (40 lb. resistance), I saw there is a black band, too (50 lb. resistance)!!! This is awesome! I can definitely move up a level, and hope to see some big results from the third phase with this new band. Plus, the timing couldn't have been better; I have legs and back today, Kenpo X tomorrow, then an entire recovery week of no lifting to wait for the shipping to come through. Fantastic!

Plyometrics and a revelation

As I was crushing plyometrics yesterday, I had a revelation. Basically, I think the reason that I and so many other people are able to keep coming back and hitting play every single day with the P90X program is that one is able to improve so quickly, there are improvements across the board immediately, and from week to week. I would say I was able to do about 99% of the plyo workout, which is something to be proud of! ALSO - this morning I tried on my favorite pair of brown pants that I have had from high school.. and they fit! NO JOKE... they're a slim 32 waist, and they fit. Before I started this program, some 34s were too tight, and I was wearing 36s... which was kind of depressing. But, today is day 45/90, and the results are awesome and I couldn't be happier that I decided to do this. It defintiely is a lifestyle change, and my results prove that it works.

End week 6, begin week 7!

Oh how time flies! I started my last week of phase 2 before the recovery week today, and it is pretty exciting. Almost there!
Friday was kenpo X - still fun, getting better each week. I think back to the first couple times I did the workout, and am amazed at how much progress I have made. My timing is right on par with the instructors, and I don't miss a single step through the entire workout. Also, I can do the kicks without fallin over myself! Win!
Saturday was a great recovery day - because all recovery days are great! As I have progressed through the program, I have found that every week has gotten harder and harder. This isn't because the workouts have changed or anything, but because as I have gotten more fit, I am able to up the level of intensity in each workout, and definitely can feel the effects more and more each week. This is a definite plus, and I think the physical changes are going to come pretty quickly over the last phase of the program.
Had a great back, shoulder & tricep workout today. Definitely intense... made it a point to get in more reps than last week, and for the most part, I did! I was pretty beat afterwards, but am already feeling up to Ab Ripper X - going to do it after bowling league. One thing I have found is that I get a ton more out of the ARX workout if I don't do it directly after the main workout... just too drained to bring it directly after an hour of working out!

Legs and Back and AbRipper and Softball... non-stop evening!

Yesterday was, by far, my best Legs & Back workout. I was dripping with sweat by the end and felt like I really pushed it. I am now able to keep up with the P90 instructors for 99% of each workout, which is something I am really pumped about. The only time I find myself having to take breaks is when I need to switch resistance bands. I think I need to find extra handles so I don't have to pause and move things around so often. For the most part I am use the green (highest resistance), but on some exercises - especially triceps - I definitely need the lighter bands. I am going to post on Twitter about where to find these, and go from there.

I started softball last night, too. In between the workout and ARX I played, and played pretty well. I made one play that I will credit my newfound athleticism to, because had I tried it before I started all this footwork and cardio, I might have exploded right on the field. But, instead, I was able to take a quick step back to counter the late low hop, spin and throw the runner out at second. It's always fun to make a play like that because they're so few and far between in softball, everybody makes an oooooooh and awwwweee... and I inevitably feel good about myself. YAY ESTEEM! I also didn't get winded at all when I ran, so that is a HUGE improvement, too. All around everything felt better... now we just have to win and I have to contribute more at the plate! Was definitely proud of myself for doing the Ab workout at 11 o'clock last night. It wasn't my best workout ever, but after such a crazy Legs workout and then softball, my legs were pretty spent. But I did my best to gut through it and in the end, I was pretty stoked I did.

Power Vinyasa Yoga is where it's at

Yesterday was yoga day - my favorite day of the week - and it left me drained! After checking who was leading the class at the studio I usually go to, I discovered it was an instructor who I have always thought lead too easy of a class. I made up my mind to go to another studio on the other side of town, because the instructor there teaches a hell of a workout! And it was no joke. It was completely different from the last time I had him for class, but that kept me working. He has also done moves that I have never seen before, which I think is important to keep me from getting too comfortable witht he program. So, long story short, I was proud of myself for taking the initiative to go to the harder class, and while there, I kept up with everything we had going on. My new goal in yoga is to learn the crow pose - because I have no idea how to get started with that one. I know my limits with regard to stretching and whatnot, but I think with some practice I can get crow down no problem.

Also, the guy who lead class is named Sean and is a co-owner of Amazing Yoga with his wife (who I don't think I have ever seen). I learned a pretty cool fact about Sean the other week - he is a former NFL player with the Philadelphia Eagles and leads the Steelers in their team yoga sessions. Just thought that was pretty cool. Also, I was definitely the only guy in the yoga class yesterday. HA!

Recovery week.. where are you?!

This week has been brutal. I have had errands and meetings to run the past 2 nights, which have meant that after getting home from work I have been running around like mad, fitting P90 in right in the middle... and it is wearing me down! I have to admit I am proud of myself for not giving up on it or taking a day off, but I am also feeling a little burned out by it all. Pretty glad today is JUST yoga, and I should be home by 7:20 - I'll eat and veg out and have no guilt about it whatsoever!! On a positive note, I am only 9 workouts away from finishing up my second phase, which is kind of mind boggling. I am definitely seeing results as far as muscle definition goes, but would like to see a little more in the stomach/love handle area. Definitely a HUGE difference from when I started, but I am going to make a big push this second half of the program to get max results. One thing I need to really focus on is not eating too late at night. Monday I didn't get to eat until 9:00, which is never good. But, such is life I guess. Not much I can do about all the extra stuff I have going on... and it's only going to get tougher in the summer.

Bonus Note!: I was watching LOST last night and got a burst of energy from somewhere (at 10:30 pm nonetheless), and filled in the commercial breaks with push-ups. Go me.

Plyometrics... badass

So - nothing new here with regard to how much Plyometrics sucks. I guess in a good way... ha! I notice I am definitely getting better at the plyo exercises, though; especially the ones involving squats and jumps. But, no matter how much better I get at this, I don't think I will ever not be dead tired when it's all said and done! I cooled down, had my recovery drink, fed the dogs... and then had to just crash on the couch. I was completely spent after that, as I usually am each week. Now, on a more positive note, sometimes when I walk the dogs, I make it a point to jump up on ledges and whatnot, just to see how my jumping and balancing has been improving - and it has! So that's a definite plus. I guess what keeps me going so hard every week is that, of all the exercises, this is the one that I will probably benefit from the most in my desire to be super outdoorsy. From softball to hiking, the added leg strength and balance is going to be awesome. I think it even helps me out in yoga; I think my knees are getting stronger which is a definite plus. Warrior poses used to really hurt by the end of practice, but now I am definitely maintaining for the entire session.

Moral of the story? Plyometric exercises are a bitch, but they work and when it's all said and done, I feel like I accomplished something pretty awesome. GO EXERCISE!

End week five, onto week six!

Had a pretty interesting weekend - I think I am starting to appreciate my rest day more and more each week! Friday was Kenpo X; still fun and getting more smooth with each week. I am to the point now where I can focus more on form and keeping my elbows in, etc., which has definitely made for a better workout. By the time kenpo is over, I am sweating as much as I do from Plyometrics!
Saturday was my rest day, and I took full advantage of it. I also took a SLIGHT rest from my super diet. I had family in from out of town, so when we went to dinner I decided to let loose and have some beers - something I had made a concious effort to stay away from. Granted all beer calories are empty and not necessary, I managed to refrain from drinking the dark heavy beer that is my favorite, and instead stuck with the much lighter Czech Pilsner... and I have to say, it was delicious! I miss beer.
Sunday was the beginning of week 6 - almost halfway there! But it was also "feel the effects of drinking beer for the first time in 45 days" day... so I spent a lot of the day napping and watching the Masters on TV. I put off my chest, biceps and triceps workout until after bowling - which of course went a half hour later than normal... so I didn't get to start my P90 until almost 10 o'clock! It wasn't too bad, though, because I sey up my laptop and watched the Sunday night Baseball game while doing an ungodly amount of push-ups, and it helped take my mind off the gruelingness of this particular workout!
Gruelingness aside, it is definitely paying off. The definition of my muscles is really starting to take shape. I can see it the most in my chest and stomach right now. I have also really developed my shoulder muscles - I look like an athlete again! My collar bone is still hurtnig a bit, but I have no idea why. I am just going to try and ignore it and keep pushing on... really hoping it doesn't affect my throwing motion come Thursday for the first softball game of the spring.. YEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Sneaky squats...

Yesterday was legs and back workout (+ab ripper x at night), and I must have done an awesome job because my legs are BEAT! I noticed I was able to do a ton more than I could before the break, so that would probably explain it! For example, when jumps are added into squats, I had never done all of them before yesterday! Awesome... it definitely sucked, but I was pretty pumped I could do it. I also did all of the wall sits and one-legged wall sits. Those were also pretty awful.
Another thing I noticed I am now using the highest resistance band, and sitting completely on the floor to maximize resistance - BOOYAH! I literally cannot wait for phase 2 to be over so I can see how much I will progress over this next month. I love it - I don't think I can see myself regressing back into my previous unhealthy lifestyle. It's been 37 days and I haven't felt this good in years.

Also, I need a new brown belt.

And I am on my last belt notch... already! Good thing I found a bunch of pants that fit me now...

Yoga - it's tough

A big part part of the p90 training is practicing yoga. This is actually my favorite part of the week; I started doing yoga about 3 months before I started the p90x program, and consider it to be a major factor in what motivated me to get going with this. I was hesitant to start yoga initially, but became instantly hooked after one session. It is an unbelievable workout! Of everything I am doing, this (and maybe plyometrics) is the one I wish I had started practicing in high school when I was involved in competitive sports. I was relatively injury prone, and that was a big factor in why I didn't wreslte in college. I can't help but think that yoga could have helped keep me on the mat a little longer - but such is hindsight!
I think one of my earlier posts was about how I think everyone should partake in yoga because of all the benefits it offers, so I won't get too much into detail here. I am constantly amazed, however, when I read on Twitter how many people (mostly guys) forego yoga for cardio work. "It's just too boring" is a common excuse. NO WAY! I think it's tough to objectively look at yoga (especially as a guy) and see that the real workout is in controlling one's breath and focus. Physically there is a ton of core work being done, but I think yoga helps the mental aspect of getting in shape more than anything! Form is so important in yoga, and you'll never get the poses right without concentration and focus - and by applying those practices to your lifting workouts, you'll see max results in the quickest amount of time.

HUZZAH YOGA!

Week 5, Day 3

The Glamour Musclesssssss!!!!!!! Back & Biceps day yesterday. Another new workout, a bunch of new exercises and feeling a little sore today! That's good, though... I wouldn't be working hard enough if I were never sore.
I was running around like crazy yesterday, but made time to get my workout in right after work, and Ab Ripper X late night. I think I like doing ARX a few hours after the big workout, because it lets me get more reps in. Sometimes I am just so fatigued after push-ups and pullups for an hour that I don't get a good ARX in... it almost seems like a waste. Well, it seemed like a waste once and I didn't want to let that happen again; now I am going to play it by ear and only do the ARX when I am feeling up to it. Gotta get the most out of it!
Definitely seeing a big change in my arms and legs; there is noticeably more definition! Getting close to the stomach too... I am hoping to have abs by phase 3... but we'll see! I have them in the morning, but by night, not so much.
I might have to start keeping a better eye on my portion control. I feel like I have been overdoing it with the brown rice.. sort of as a filler. May start going back to the measuring cup and get a good eye on where I am with everything.

Yoga tonight! It is going to be tough, but when it's all over, definitely my favorite day.

Week 5, day 2... had to earn it!

Yesterday was opening day for Pittsburgh Pirate baseball - one of my favorite days of the year by far! I requested off about 4 months in advance, and was like a little kid on Christmas. Adding to the general awesomeness of the day was the weather. It was mid- to upper seventies and sunny all day! If you know Pittsburgh weather, you know how miraculous this is. I got a lot of sun in the 8 1/2 hours I was outside yesterday.
That being said, by the time I got home, I was exhausted. I had managed to convince myself it would be OK to skip my plyometrics workout, because I was so tired, and not used to the sun, and blah blah blah. I ate dinner around 6 and laid on the couch for awhile before walking the dogs around 8:30. But, sometime after getting home from the walk, I started to get the itch. I didn't want to skip my workout. I got a second wind. I started bouncnig around a little bit, seeing how I felt. And, ya know what? I felt great!
I brought my laptop out and put it on the TV stand, and watched the National Championship Duke-Butler game while doing plyo. It was pretty awesome that way. Definitely took my mind off how bad the squats hurt, and to be honest, I don't think I have ever had a better workout than I did last night. Though, to be fair, it seems like every single day I am able to work harder and push harder than I did the day before. THAT is progress!

I also took my 30 day photo - WHAT A HUGE DIFFERENCE! I am going to post them today or tomorrow, and you (my imaginary followers) can be the judge. As happy as I am with the physical changes, the best part about it is how well my old clothes fit me now. I have gone down a pant size already, and I like my older clothes better anyhow. When I was slimmer I bought nicer clothes!

End of recovery week, begin phase 2!

So, Friday was my last workout of recovery week, and it was an awesome one. I went to my third yoga session of the week (having replaced the midweek stretch session with it), and that capped off recovery week. But, to be honest, it wasn't very recovery-esque. All that yoga and core work is still a lot of working out! Needless to say, I was pretty stoked for Saturday's rest day.
I slept great Friday night and woke up early Saturday, ready to take on the day (sans P90). I only had one dog this weekend, so me and Oliver made the best of it and walked somewhere between 5 and 6 miles early in the morning. We were back by 11am, and definitely worked up an appetite for lunch!
A pretty regular lunch for me lately has been a turkey wrap - and they're awesome! I use whole wheat tortilla shells (the smaller ones), spinach, the roasted turkey breast from the deli and light 2% swiss cheese. I also use a little light italian dressing and tobasco to top it off, and it's been a great light lunch that's quick to put together and holds me over till dinner time. Not to mention it's super cheap and can provide a week's worth of lunch for under $15.
Today is a big day for me, though. It's Easter Sunday, it's day 1 of phase 2 AND it's one year since I rescued my first dog, Oliver. He is awesome and keeps me very active - lot of extra walking with that little guy.
So - as I noted - today was the beginning of the second phase. NEW DVD DAY!!! I did Chest/Shoulders/Triceps and it was a BEAST! Lot of new push-ups, and tricep work is always a bastard. I did really well on some of them, and struggled on others. Made sure to keep track of everything though which will come in handy for next week. Like the other weeks, after seeing the workout once, I plan on seeing a lot of improvement the next time through. I am definitely going to hold myself accountable for a jump in number on each exercise next week!
Definitely a tough one today, but I did like that things got mixed up a bit. Muscle confusion, I don't know the science behind it, but it certainly keeps things interesting!
Opening day baseball tomorrow afternoon means early morning Plyometrics!

Core Work like what

Yesterday was my second attempt at the Core Synergistics workout, and I definitely did better the second time around. I definitely need to invest a pair of 10 pound weights, though... there are some exercises that the bands just don't really work for. But, I digress. Having gone through the workout once already, I definitely had a better workout this time through. I was sweating my butt off about 20 mins in, but it was all good. This is another workout, like Kenpo, that seems to just fly by. The breaks are only 45 seconds or so, and the exercises are so diverse that you're constantly moving and before you know it, it's cool down time!
Hopefully all that core work proves beneficial for yoga- 5:45 hot yoga class tonight! Bringing a buddy to try it out; spreading the word about how awesome it is. Actually, we have a group of about 5 going tonight which should be a lot of fun.

Yoga... Hot.

Yesterday was an X Strecth day, but I went the Yoga route instead. 75 minutes of stretching and core work does a body good! And, I gotta say, yesterday was one of the toughest classes I have had to date. Definitely struggled a little bit, but I worked through it and did pretty well I think.
I am almost done with my recovery week and onto phase 2 - pretty stoked! Can't believe I made it an entire month already... time is flying, which is awesome. The results are definitely there, and I am only about 30% done with the program! My energy level is through the roof, I feel great and am slimming down already. Couldn't ask for more out of it. As lame as this sounds, I am totally pumped for softball season to start, because I genuinely believe the plyometric conditioning is going to help me out a lot at shortstop. I feel so quick on my feet, how couldn't it?? Exactly - I am going to dominate. I am going to dominate slow-pitch, co-ed softball... all because of plyometrics.

My jeans are too big...

UPDATE: my 34 waist jeans are fall down big on me now... so, luckily, I was cleaning out all my old clothes to take to Goodwill, and found a really sweet pair of jeans I put away a few years ago because they just didn't fit anymore... But now they do! Helllllllllll Yeeeeeeeea

Core and Kenpo

Recovery week is going pretty well - I think I enjoy the reprieve from Ab Ripper X the most! I had my first experience with Core Synergistics, and I gotta say, it's a pretty sweet workout. I will go through it again on Thursday, and I think it will be an even better workout having seen the whole process once. I have definitely noticed, especially with Kenpo, that the more familiar I become with the program, the better the workout. Kenpo allowed me to develop the rhythm I needed to be fluid, especially with the punch sequences. Core is going to be an awesome workout when I can transition easier and focus more on each move without having to rely on watching the TV. BUT, in the meantime, just gotta do my best and forget the rest. BOOYAH!

Tomorrow is X-Stretch day, but I am going to do hot yoga instead. Still get a lot of stretching out of it, plus I like the core work and how great I feel afterwards. It's P90X, right? May as well make it intense.

Another pretty interesting thing I have noticed about the P90 community, is how active it is on Twitter. It's a pretty cool thing to log on and see a lot of familiar names and follow them through their process as well. I am about a third of the way through, and it is definitely a pain in the ass - but in a good way. Sure, I miss wing nights and beer on the weekends, but I feel great and today wore a pair of jeans that I put away a year ago because they didn't fit me anymore - FTW! One thing I see on twitter is a lot of people hate yoga, or just skip it in general. If I could give any advice to people who feel that way, it would be to skip the home yoga workout and find a studio near you to practice. Time flies when you have someone walking you through it, and having a teacher there to help with your form is a big help too.

Kenpo, rest day, yoga!

Friday was KenpoX day. Awesome! I kind of suck at all things kicking, but I imagine I will get better as time goes on. I definitely have gotten a lot better with punch sequences. Had to develop a little rhythm is all!! That was the last session of the third week before moving on to my recovery week, and I definitely brought it pretty well. It's amazing how quickly these workouts go, and just how much sweat I am covered in when all is said and done! Pretty sweet.
Saturday was the rest day, but I spent it doing spring cleaning and dog walking, so I got to be pretty active the majority of the day which was nice.
Today I did yoga at the studio. Because I have a bowling league Sunday nights I had to go to the noon class, which is a beginner level class. There are definitely tough poses, and I made it a point to keep my technique as spot on as possible to get as much out of it as possible, but with all the downtime and rests provided, I didn't feel like I got as good a workout as I would have liked. But it's tough to blame it on the class, because each teacher does their class differently, it just so happens the one today taught her's as a very novice beginning level. From now on, I am sticking to the all levels class... lot more sweat!

Almost recovery time!

Yesterday was my last "lifting" workout of phase one - I did legs & back. Probably not my favorite day of the week, but certainly not the worst. The wall sits are pretty brutal... I remember how much I hated them when I wrestled, and how much I liked making the kids do them when I coached haha. But, they're definitely a good exercise and you know when you've done them!
I was pretty impressed with how much I was sweating by the time I was done witht he workout. For just doing legs and back, I really worked pretty hard and could feel it for about an hour afterwards! The worst part of the workout was, of course, Ab Ripper X. I definitely did better this time around and did the entire Mason twist to finish the workout without stopping for the second time in a row - BOOM! ARX is a bastard though - no doubt about it.
I wanted to note that, even after a pretty good workout, I still have a LOT of energy all night. I have been taking the stairs at work instead of the elevator, and have been walking the dogs to the far grass patch to go to the bathroom. I have even been running the dogs around the block just because I feel like getting up and moving - pretty awesome!
KenpoX tonight then rest day Saturday and RECOVERY WEEK ALL NEXT WEEK*!

*I decided I am going to replace the middle of the recovery week Stretch X with Yoga, which means 3 yoga sessions next week. There's a lot of stretching involved, but I want to burn more calories and keep it a little more intense. Plus, I want to get good at yoga... I hate watching all these tiny girls dominate as I fall all over myself for 75 minutes!

Brefnix

Free breakfast at work today!!!! Unless of course one is dominating the P90X workout regiment and diet... I'll stick with the protein shake.

WHAT'S UP NOW?!

Yoga... it's awesome! Wk 3, Day 4

It's official, yoga and Kenpo are my favorite days in this first phase. Like I wrote previously, I go to a studio to do yoga, but it is definitely more beneficial for me that way. It's hot yoga, so the room is humidified and the temperature set around 95 degrees, so basically it's an insta-sweat once you walk in the room. I also get a lot of help from the instructor adjusting my pose, and by getting to look around and see what other participants are doing (in the cases where I can't keep up).
Yesterday was my yoga day and it was awesome. Went with two friends, Jesse and Travis, which always makes it more fun. I would say it was my best yoga class to date - I was able to hold many of the poses a lot longer than I remember being able to, and was able to modify the difficulty level to make the activity a little more tough... I definitely got a workout yesterday! I wouldn't be surprised if I sweated off five pounds in these classes.
Next week is recovery week - I think that means two yoga classes... woo!
Oh, also looking forward to the core workouts in recovery week... should be pretty helpful with my yoga practice and the Ab Ripper X workouts.
Pull-up update: I am getting way better almost daily. I bet I'll be able to do 20+ by the end of this program. In fact, I am making that a goal!

My arms are tired

Welp, yesterday was Arm & Shoulders (and triceps?) (the glamour muscles!), and boy do my arms feel fatigued today. I guess this is a good sign, though, as it means I am pushing myself pretty hard. I was pretty worried about getting the motivation and keeping throughout the workout by myself, but Tony Horton - who made and walks you through the workouts - does a really good job of keeping you focused on the task at hand. Also, most sets are only about 30-40 seconds, so it's just long enough to wear you out without going overboard, or not being able to finish. The end is always in sight!
I am also learning when to use which level of resistance band for each workout, which let's me get my form on par and, in turn, better results. Speaking of results, the pants are fitting much better these days, and my pull-up form is definitely cleaner. It isn't a struggle for life to get myself up anymore - win!
Looking forward to yoga tonight - going to the studio again. I think I enjoy yoga much more when I am not by myself in my living room, plus the hot yoga is a crazy sweat inducing workout which is awesome. Yea Yoga!

Good to be back!

OK - so, I had to take off Friday, Saturday & Sunday due to a commitment I made to referee a junior wrestling tournament, but I got right back into the swing of things yesterday with PlyoX. It was also my birthday, so I celebrated by having the most intense Plyo session I've had yet. I was able to keep up with the program about 98%... I am almost there!
Pretty tough to believe I am on my third week already - but I am looking forward to my rest week! I have to admit, as much as I love having done Plyo, I dread all the squats. A week of yoga and core work (looking forward to seeing that DVD) will be nice.
Also getting pretty stoked about moving on to the next phase! New workouts, little different diet plan... should be pretty cool. I have settled into the routine and still get pretty pumped to workout each day, which is definitely a plus.
OH - last night I made a pretty awesome dinner. It was definitely light, but did the trick. I put two Boca Burgers on a pan then cut them up into a semi-ground beef type of deal, and made a burrito with a little cheese and taco sauce. It was fantastic... I have been craving Qdoba, and this did just the trick.
My mom bought me a bunch of groceries for my birthday, so I am pretty set for awhile now with chicken breasts, veggiemeat and steaks! I got loaded up with veggies, too... and gala apples and bananas.
All in all, the diet + workout has been pretty awesome so far... definitely enjoying it and feeling better than I have in a long time.

End rambling.

OMFGGG

I am legitimately beat today. The arms/back workout has destroyed me! Push-ups and pull-ups for an hour straight is such a brutal workout, I can't even describe it. But, with that being said, I would say my arms are definitely showing a noticeable change already... and I can do way more push-ups and pull-ups than when I started... so, I guess it pays off!
My arms are really beat today. I am actually looking forward to officiating the next two days to sort of get some extra energy and get myself back on track. I am definitely starting to push it harder and not take any cheats. I will note, however, that I have to do girl push-ups for the diamond series. I cannot get my body to work in that form YET. That is one of my goals - be able to dominate the diamond push-up.
I also have to make sure I hydrate myself during the lifting workouts. I think yesterday I didn't get enough water in me, and it negatively affected me when it came time to AbRipperX. I did not do too great with the abs yesterday. When I get back into the swing of things, I really want to get a good Ab workout in.
OK - I am off to referee the PJW state qualifier wrestling tournament. Big day for a new ref!

2 weeks done!

Well, today is my strecth/rest day, but all the hard work is over... for now.
I am actually going to use this rest day to REST! I tweaked my right shoulder somehow and think the day off could help a lot. It may have happened in Yoga, but I'm not exactly sure. Anyhow, a day off will help!
Yesterday was KenpoX - still my favorite. I think that because it's so different, it seems to just fly by. Punching, kicking, blocking... it's awesome. I do suck at side kicks, though. As my flexibility and balance improves, I'm sure this will get better, though.
I got a call yesterday to go to Corry, PA to officiate a junior state qualifier wrestling tournament, which is nice because it will get my face and name out there with a lot of other refs, and it's definitely good experience. The downside is that it will be ALL DAY Friday and Saturday, so my P90 progress will take a two day set-back. I'm not too worried though because reffing wrestling is actually a pretty good workout, so when I get back into Plyos on Sunday, I will be ready to rock. Another nice benefit to this is my rest day will be Friday and I will get to do Yoga on Tuesdays, which will be a great mid-week break from the norm.

Feeling it...

Yesterday was legs/back + Ab Ripper X, and I have gained the following insight: wall sits, and more specifically one legged wall sits, are awful, but nowhere near as horrendous as Ab Ripper X.
On a positive note, however, I had a great workout yesterday. For just doing legs and back, I worked up a big sweat and was definitely beat when it was over. I did manage to push myself into doing ARX, even though it makes me want to die. I am getting noticeably better at it though, and can do significantly more reps than even two weeks ago when I started. I think once I build up my core and back strength I will be more efficient at it - I think my back is the one thing holding me back with the ab exercises.
Also, for the first time, I laid in bed last night and could feel the soreness in my legs. Good sign - it means I am pushing it harder than last week! Furthermore, my energy is through the roof! I had to get milk for my protein shake last night, and at about 8:20 in the evening, I decided to jog to the convenience store. Sure, it's only about 4 blocks away, but I got up and jogged there! A month ago I would have said "screw it" and just went to bed, now I jogged there and back - lot of credit to the program.

I think I can notice a physical difference as well. All good things. Kenpo X tonight (I think this one is my favorite) and then a much needed rest day tomorrow... still up in the air about Stretch X tomorrow. I have to study for the PIAA Baseball Officials test... but I don't want to make excuses. Time will tell.

Halfway through week 2

So, this was one of the weeks I was dreading when I started the program - Saint Patrick's Day festivities in Pittsburgh. It's possibly the greatest day of the year. Everyone comes in from out of town, we get up at 7am and drink outside until our bodies give up. Awesome, right? Well, a big part of this program for me is cutting out alcohol. Alcohol leads to hangovers (no working out) and drunk eating (pizza at 3 am), so it just doesn't mesh. I feel like God was on my side as the weather was cold and rainy on parade day, which made it much much much easier to stay in and get my workout done early.

I got all my workouts in and, I have to say, week 2 has been considerably tougher than week 1 - which is a good thing. Having gone through the workout once, my technique is better this time around and I know what to expect so I think I am able to push myself harder. I can definitely see a difference, but the biggest difference is the jump in my energy level. I feel like being active pretty much all day; I feel lighter on my feet and up to just about anything.

The only change I made this week was that I went to Amazing Yoga for my Sunday workout program. It's hot yoga so I definitely sweat more, and it's an all levels class so it's a little more advanced than I am used to. I think this will help me more than doing yoga at home, because the instructor will assist if my form is off, and I can look around to make sure I am doing the right thing. It's 15 minutes shorter than the P90X yoga session, but I think the intensity level is a little higher, and in the end, I will be able to get more out of it with the help from the instructor. Plus, I paid for 10 classes back in December and have only used 1... gotta get my moneys worth!

Week 1 done, 12 weeks to go!

yesterday I wrapped up my first week of the P90X routine with XStretch, or Stretch X... X and Stretch are definitely in the title. It was pretty nice to have a slow workout day. I had the option to skip everything, but decided flexibility would be a pretty nice thing to have - since I have NEVER been flexible in my entire life.

It was an hour long but it was basically constant action... just like everything else with this program, there isn't very much downtime at all. Some of the stretches were out of my skeez so to speak, but I tried and I think it will be a good gauge of my progress to see what I am able to do as time passes.

The yoga mat is a lifesaver.. I would never be able to do this unless I had something between me and the carpet. So - if you are thinking about doing this, invest in a yoga mat! (Though I have zero followers, I will continue to write as though I have an audience - keep me honest).

Tonight I start the whole week over again which means a lot of push-ups and resistance pull-ups tonight... YAY! And then... PLYOMETRICS TOMORROW... YAYYYYYYYYY. Actually, they both suck. But, I am strangely psyched to do them. The mental attitude is strong!

First week - DONE!

So yesterday was day 6/90 on my journey to a healthy lifestyle, and it was a pretty awesome way to wind down the week. It was a 60 minute Kenpo X workout. Kenpo is (from what I have read on Wikipedia) a form a martial arts - so this was a 60 minute cardio workout with punches, kicks, bocks and constant moving. I was pretty surprised that even during the "breaks" we were moving non-stop... jumping jacks, "X jumps", juming invisible rope, etc...

All in all though, it was by far my best workout yet. My balance and agility are coming back which is certainly making the cardio workouts a little easier - I can't believe I am saying this, but I am actually looking forward to Plyometrics on Friday... even though I am 100% sure it's going to suck once I start.

Today is rest day OR Stretch X - I am going to make a point to do the stretches because, why not? If I'm going to put this much effort into doing this program, I may as well go all out, right? Besides, I can finally touch my toes again!

HUZZAH!

Day 5/90... officially 5.56% done!

Day 5 was pretty intense - but I think that I am going to have to stop using that word to describe this program; there really isn't anything about it that isn't intense! I have to say that I forgot how much wall sits suck... now I remember all too clearly - they're awful. My entire body was shaking... and then we did one legged wall sits! Very rough, but very rewarding when it was over.

Ab Ripper X is still insanely hard, but I was able to "gut" my way through all 25 reps on a number of the exercises. Some of them I just cannot get the technique down, but I feel like once I build up my core a little more I should be OK.

Tonight is Kenpo X and then REST DAY! I am going to make a point of doing the X Stretch on my off days as a way to keep the momentum going, and I think I would like to see just how flexible I can make myself. I was never very flexible even when I was wrestling, so it should be interesting.

*Also, the diet is going really well. Made a flat iron steak (had about 6 oz for my 2 servings of protein), brown rice and corn for dinner last night. It was actually AWESOME. Washed it down with a glass of skim milk and life was good!

Days 2, 3 & 4... count it!

Well, due to technical difficulties, I was unable to update over the weekend. So - looks like we'll go with the quick update.

Day 2: Plyometrics! Holy crap was this intense. Pretty much a non-stop cardio workout that had me use every available open inch of my living room. It was pretty great, though. I really like the DVDs and Tony Horton's approach to each session. He keeps you motivated and since there isn't any real downtime, the hour flies by. I went out to see my buddies' band play that night and drank water at the show - I am keeping to the rules pretty well so far!

Day 3: If I remember correctly, this was arms/back/ab ripper x day. I had to use the pause button a few times to give myself some extra resistance with the bands on a few exercises, but I think as I get more into the routine of each DVD things will go more smoothly. Definitely some tough moves on this one, but I think I handled it pretty well. I am looking forward to the moment when I realize my form is in line with the people on the DVD and I know I am getting more out of each move.

Day 4: Yoga X! Unlike all the other sessions, which are about 60 or less minutes, this one was 90. I wasn't completely looking forward to it, but once I got started the time flew by. Actually, once I got past the first 30 minutes it flew by. The DVD seems to be divided into 3 sections: the first was a pretty brutal, fast-paced set that was almost cardio - I certainly sweated like it! The next thirty were "balance positions" - nice way to slow things down after the first part. I really had to focus to keep my balance and get the most out of it. Finally, a lot of stretching in the last 30 minutes. I can touch my toes! I actually feel like I am getting more flexible and it's only been 5 days into the program. One thing is for sure - you see results pretty damn quick with this program.

Kenpo X today

Day 1 in the books

Day one of my P90X program is in the books... and I am not completely dead! I thought I would be a lot more sore than I am, but maybe officiating wrestling the past 2+ months has helped me out a bit.

Anyways, I did chest/back yesterday followed by Ab Ripper X. Chest/Back was intense.. about 51 minutes in total, but a decent chunk of it was warm up/cool down - which I think I owe a lot of my feeling all right to. It was crazy intense though, and I definitely felt like a wuss not being able to do the push-ups like I remember being able to. But, I take solace in the fact that it will only get easier.

Ab Ripper X is 16 minutes of hell. Crazy intense! I think once I figure out the form it might get a little easier, but I can see how it works.

I am also doing the diet aspect of it - low carb, high protein. The protein shake I got is pretty good - it tastes like a thick chocolate milk. I got it from Giant Eagle because GNC was closed down, so who knows how great it is. But whatever - I am doin it.