I started this blog with the intent of keeping track of my progress in my fitness goals.
Kind of makes sense that I stopped the blog because I fell squarely off the wagon in recent weeks (read months). Although I continued to train I let myself now immensely when it came to nutrition.
Therefore I really wasn't surprised by my latest measurements. However here I am having had another snap moment (at least I wasn't quite at the same point as my last snap moment :D ) and I am back on track.
Two full days of 6 correct meals a day. New weights program thanks to Josh and a new outlook (again).
The previous slips I had made were no fault of my trainers, I simply got lazy. Eating convenience started to outweigh the healthy options. Over the next 12 weeks I am going to stay strong. I have come a long way however I also have some fairly big goals coming up. Therefore I am going to follow the instructions and recommendations of my trainers to the letter.
Let's see just what I am capable of :)
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Ten months and going strong
I've been training with Josh at Physique Essentials for 10 months and this week marked the beginning of week 12 in the second round of Metabolic Precision. Week 12 means one important thing.... more measurements and photos.
Now let's take a step back for a moment and look back to 6 weeks ago when the first set of follow up measurements were taken. I was pretty disappointed as the measurements certainly weren't stellar and my weight stayed the same. I don't meant about the same but EXACTLY the same.
So I headed into this stat session not expecting much and .....
I was pleasantly surprised. In addition to some key measurement figures, the photos showed where my body composition changes were happening so I will admit I walked out of the studio (after a pretty good session) with a bounce in my step (well as much of a bounce as you can do after deadlifting 65kgs...) and a smile on my face.
When I got home I thought I would look back to my very first measurements from when I first walked into the studio on 5 October 2009 and the result is this.......
Weight lost 9 kgs
Waist lost 9cms
Hips lost 9.5cms
Chest lost 7cm
Shoulders lost 8cms
Thigh lost 5cms
Now some people would possibly look at those figures and think to themselves...... "But it's been 10 months, shouldn't those figures be higher?". However to be completely honest I'm pretty proud of those figures. Let me explain......
Those that know me, know that I have been on a LOT of diets, tried many things and sure have lost 10+ kilos before just to see it pile back on plus more. When I first walked into the studio with Josh I was the heaviest I have ever been and I was really not happy with myself. I was unfit, not healthy and on the diet rollercoaster that I honestly thought I would never get off.
Ten months down the track I am a lot happier, I am fitter, stronger and most importantly I've disembarked from that diet rollercoaster with no intention of ever getting back on it, and honestly I don't need to.
I don't diet anymore, actually I'm still being told by Josh to eat more (which I still find funny) I don't need to diet. I just select food slightly differently now. Also I never thought I would enjoy going to the gym and lifting weights (I figured that was only ever for bodybuilders) however now I strive to increase the weights at each session (and also to try not to drop them on me lol)
Josh has given me the skills to continue to make improvements and also the motivation and inspiration to never give up trying to be better.
So for some the figures may seem low however for me it marks a consistent improvement and the motivation to just keep going and even turn it up a notch.
I intend to keep training with Josh and Physique Essentials simply because it works and I have NEVER stuck to a health and wellbeing program like this before. I have always given up and this time round I don't want to and can see any reason to. I'm enjoying food again, it is no longer my enemy. And I love my time at the studio, it's hard work but it's also fun and rewarding.
So to Josh I have one simple thing to say... thank you :)
Now let's take a step back for a moment and look back to 6 weeks ago when the first set of follow up measurements were taken. I was pretty disappointed as the measurements certainly weren't stellar and my weight stayed the same. I don't meant about the same but EXACTLY the same.
So I headed into this stat session not expecting much and .....
I was pleasantly surprised. In addition to some key measurement figures, the photos showed where my body composition changes were happening so I will admit I walked out of the studio (after a pretty good session) with a bounce in my step (well as much of a bounce as you can do after deadlifting 65kgs...) and a smile on my face.
When I got home I thought I would look back to my very first measurements from when I first walked into the studio on 5 October 2009 and the result is this.......
Weight lost 9 kgs
Waist lost 9cms
Hips lost 9.5cms
Chest lost 7cm
Shoulders lost 8cms
Thigh lost 5cms
Now some people would possibly look at those figures and think to themselves...... "But it's been 10 months, shouldn't those figures be higher?". However to be completely honest I'm pretty proud of those figures. Let me explain......
Those that know me, know that I have been on a LOT of diets, tried many things and sure have lost 10+ kilos before just to see it pile back on plus more. When I first walked into the studio with Josh I was the heaviest I have ever been and I was really not happy with myself. I was unfit, not healthy and on the diet rollercoaster that I honestly thought I would never get off.
Ten months down the track I am a lot happier, I am fitter, stronger and most importantly I've disembarked from that diet rollercoaster with no intention of ever getting back on it, and honestly I don't need to.
I don't diet anymore, actually I'm still being told by Josh to eat more (which I still find funny) I don't need to diet. I just select food slightly differently now. Also I never thought I would enjoy going to the gym and lifting weights (I figured that was only ever for bodybuilders) however now I strive to increase the weights at each session (and also to try not to drop them on me lol)
Josh has given me the skills to continue to make improvements and also the motivation and inspiration to never give up trying to be better.
So for some the figures may seem low however for me it marks a consistent improvement and the motivation to just keep going and even turn it up a notch.
I intend to keep training with Josh and Physique Essentials simply because it works and I have NEVER stuck to a health and wellbeing program like this before. I have always given up and this time round I don't want to and can see any reason to. I'm enjoying food again, it is no longer my enemy. And I love my time at the studio, it's hard work but it's also fun and rewarding.
So to Josh I have one simple thing to say... thank you :)
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Rain rain go away, I wanted to run today
Yesterday (Friday) Simon and I started a running program, Couch to 5K. Essentially the purpose of the plan is to slowly progress you over 9 weeks until you can run/jog for 30 minutes. Now anyone who knows me can tell you I am no runner however after completing the Nail Can Hill run and the Mothers' Day Classic I decided I wanted to give it a go.
Luckily there is an app for the iPhone which times the run so that makes it a lot easier. The first week of the program involves a 5 minute walk warm up and then 60 seconds running followed by 90 seconds walking for around 20 minutes then finishes off with a 5 minute cool down.
To be honest the program is pretty good however it took me a little while to get into the running rhythm. My cardio isn't crash hot however I definitely hope to improve. It also helped having Simon with me because on one of the run sections I stopped early and he pushed me on (Thanks Simon :D ).
So this morning was supposed to be the fitness session at Willow Park with Josh, and also my return to ICE (Intense Cardio Exercise) as part of my program.
When Simon and I go to the park, let's just say it was a little wet. Josh was not far behind and there was only one other person waiting there. Josh happily pointed to a puddle and suggested that perhaps we could do burpees in the puddle..... NOOOOOOooooooo.......
After Josh went and spoke to the other person about whether or not we should continue (and after pointing out that the only beings out on the field were ducks lol) it was decided that it was just too wet to continue.
Now as part of my program I have to do one ICE session a week and additionally I want to continue with this running program.....
I should back up for a second and point out that although I would LOVE to class the running program as an ICE session it it isn't at the intense level that it should be, therefore just simply forms part of my other cardio activity.
Now especially after receiving a gentle email reminder from Josh about the need for ICE still it has been decided that Simon and I are going to do a 12/8 interval running session tomorrow and this afternoon (provided the rain eases up) the second day of the running program.
I honestly never thought I would be hoping for the rain to clear up just so I could go for a run.......
Luckily there is an app for the iPhone which times the run so that makes it a lot easier. The first week of the program involves a 5 minute walk warm up and then 60 seconds running followed by 90 seconds walking for around 20 minutes then finishes off with a 5 minute cool down.
To be honest the program is pretty good however it took me a little while to get into the running rhythm. My cardio isn't crash hot however I definitely hope to improve. It also helped having Simon with me because on one of the run sections I stopped early and he pushed me on (Thanks Simon :D ).
So this morning was supposed to be the fitness session at Willow Park with Josh, and also my return to ICE (Intense Cardio Exercise) as part of my program.
When Simon and I go to the park, let's just say it was a little wet. Josh was not far behind and there was only one other person waiting there. Josh happily pointed to a puddle and suggested that perhaps we could do burpees in the puddle..... NOOOOOOooooooo.......
After Josh went and spoke to the other person about whether or not we should continue (and after pointing out that the only beings out on the field were ducks lol) it was decided that it was just too wet to continue.
Now as part of my program I have to do one ICE session a week and additionally I want to continue with this running program.....
I should back up for a second and point out that although I would LOVE to class the running program as an ICE session it it isn't at the intense level that it should be, therefore just simply forms part of my other cardio activity.
Now especially after receiving a gentle email reminder from Josh about the need for ICE still it has been decided that Simon and I are going to do a 12/8 interval running session tomorrow and this afternoon (provided the rain eases up) the second day of the running program.
I honestly never thought I would be hoping for the rain to clear up just so I could go for a run.......
Friday, May 28, 2010
Oh my aching (in a good way) Back
Thursday marks my last resistance training day for the week at Physique Essentials.
Today the concentration is on the back. Traditionally the back day is not my favourite however I will admit I was looking forward to today because I knew there were more exercise changes ahead (as they say a change is as good as a holiday)
We started off in the normal fashion, assisted pull ups. Over the time I have improved on these, a little, and I certainly feel stronger in my back however they remain one of my least favourite exercises.
This was followed by wide grip pull downs which honestly I didn't mind, although I could certainly feel it in my back (even more so a day later as I write this).
Seated Cable Row then followed and I will admit that although these exercises are concentrating on the back I was feeling it in my forearms. At the end of the second set it was obvious that I had nothing left in me as the handle virtually flew out of my hands.
Prior to this new program part of my session included Barbell curls which I will readily admit I was NOT good at. This time around Josh has changed it up and we are doing dumbbell curls. Now every time I ever went to the gym I used to snigger at those people who would grab dumbbells and grunt and groan while watching themselves in the mirror........ Well I'm now one of those people.....
For a warm up, started off fairly light on the dumbbells and got through them OK. Then for the first work set we upped the weight by 2.5kgs on each side and boy did I feel it! I struggled through what I could of the set.
After a rest Josh got the 'workout bling' out (the wrist weights that add approximately a kilo) and I was thinking "Is he mad??? I could barely lift the last lot". He laughed at me as he assured me that we were dropping back in weight.......
I would love to say that I powered through the next set but that would just be a big fat lie. I should point out at this stage that Josh has an 'interesting' counting method. As I was nearing the 5th rep and starting to struggle a little he says,
"We are only doing 5", and the 5th rep finishes and he says keep going.
"We just need to get to 7", and the 7th rep slowly but surely passes.
And so it goes until I almost complete rep 10 (my forearm started stinging for some reason)
Now I pick on him for his counting ability however I will admit it helps encourage you. There seems to be a mental trigger where if you THINK it's the last rep somehow you have more power. It's weird
Oh and on the other side of things Josh does have an uncanny ability to keep track of the rep count even while talking and doing other unrelated things.
After the curls it was ab time. Josh disappeared around the corner and I prayed that he wasn't looking for the wheel............
time passes......
.....
He re-emerges with no Wheel (silent cheer). Instead it is plank time. When I started with Josh I could barely do 15 secs of the plank on my knees. Now we were doing 30 secs on toes. After a false start on the first one (not easy maintaining the plank position when laughing) I managed the 30 secs and then Josh informs me that we are doing the side plank (NOOOOOOooooo...)
It's actually not that bad :)
So that ends the run down of my training week. I won't necessarily blog every single day or every single training session. This weak I did simply to set the groundwork for the next 12 weeks. I will blog when significant things happen and will pop in every now and then for an update however I don't want to bore the one or two readers I might have.
Oh and on the nutrition front still travelling well (although I've still got to sort breakfast out :S)
Signing off....... take care, stay active, eat well and be healthy
Today the concentration is on the back. Traditionally the back day is not my favourite however I will admit I was looking forward to today because I knew there were more exercise changes ahead (as they say a change is as good as a holiday)
We started off in the normal fashion, assisted pull ups. Over the time I have improved on these, a little, and I certainly feel stronger in my back however they remain one of my least favourite exercises.
This was followed by wide grip pull downs which honestly I didn't mind, although I could certainly feel it in my back (even more so a day later as I write this).
Seated Cable Row then followed and I will admit that although these exercises are concentrating on the back I was feeling it in my forearms. At the end of the second set it was obvious that I had nothing left in me as the handle virtually flew out of my hands.
Prior to this new program part of my session included Barbell curls which I will readily admit I was NOT good at. This time around Josh has changed it up and we are doing dumbbell curls. Now every time I ever went to the gym I used to snigger at those people who would grab dumbbells and grunt and groan while watching themselves in the mirror........ Well I'm now one of those people.....
For a warm up, started off fairly light on the dumbbells and got through them OK. Then for the first work set we upped the weight by 2.5kgs on each side and boy did I feel it! I struggled through what I could of the set.
After a rest Josh got the 'workout bling' out (the wrist weights that add approximately a kilo) and I was thinking "Is he mad??? I could barely lift the last lot". He laughed at me as he assured me that we were dropping back in weight.......
I would love to say that I powered through the next set but that would just be a big fat lie. I should point out at this stage that Josh has an 'interesting' counting method. As I was nearing the 5th rep and starting to struggle a little he says,
"We are only doing 5", and the 5th rep finishes and he says keep going.
"We just need to get to 7", and the 7th rep slowly but surely passes.
And so it goes until I almost complete rep 10 (my forearm started stinging for some reason)
Now I pick on him for his counting ability however I will admit it helps encourage you. There seems to be a mental trigger where if you THINK it's the last rep somehow you have more power. It's weird
Oh and on the other side of things Josh does have an uncanny ability to keep track of the rep count even while talking and doing other unrelated things.
After the curls it was ab time. Josh disappeared around the corner and I prayed that he wasn't looking for the wheel............
time passes......
.....
He re-emerges with no Wheel (silent cheer). Instead it is plank time. When I started with Josh I could barely do 15 secs of the plank on my knees. Now we were doing 30 secs on toes. After a false start on the first one (not easy maintaining the plank position when laughing) I managed the 30 secs and then Josh informs me that we are doing the side plank (NOOOOOOooooo...)
It's actually not that bad :)
So that ends the run down of my training week. I won't necessarily blog every single day or every single training session. This weak I did simply to set the groundwork for the next 12 weeks. I will blog when significant things happen and will pop in every now and then for an update however I don't want to bore the one or two readers I might have.
Oh and on the nutrition front still travelling well (although I've still got to sort breakfast out :S)
Signing off....... take care, stay active, eat well and be healthy
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Another day New exercises
Wednesday is the second of three training sessions I have with Josh each week. The focus is on the chest and it also introduced me to a few new and a few changed exercises.
We started off with an incline bench press. Until this point, for as long as I've been training with Josh I have only done the flat bench press so in a weird way I was a little excited to be trying something different. It definitely is a different feel to the flat bench press (and a day later I am certainly feeling it in a slightly different way)
Following on from that was the flat dumb bell press. This again is a little different to what we had been doing (inclined dumb bell) however not uncomfortable.
Next up...... the standing shoulder press. Now I have to say this does feel weird. I think my first problem came from the arm position. During the bench press I had to learn to keep my elbows under the bar (just ask Josh, he had to remind me on a very regular basis). So I finally get the hang of it (usually) and so I adopt the same position on the shoulder press........ yep that's not how it's done.
So with the shoulder press you need to turn the elbows more towards the front in order to give the press strength, and let me tell you there really is a difference.
Yet another slightly different exercise to what I had been doing previously was the bench dip (rather than assisted dips on the machine). We have done dips plenty of times in the Blitz sessions however they were easy compared to these. Hands on the edge of a bench, legs straight in front and..... dip. To begin with I thought, ah these are easy, until about the 8th one and I started to struggle getting back to the starting position. After the first set, and the requisite rest between sets, I started on the next set. I was going strong for the first 4 or 5 and then started to falter. At this stage I think Josh found that it's not the easiest exercise to spot lol. After not being able to get to the starting position on the 7th one (literally nothing was moving!) I brought my legs in and that was it.
To finish off Josh had a present for me..........NOT! It was the dreaded Wheel of Death. I know that my abs have strengthen over the last few months however that wheel is still a killer.
Nutrition
I will be honest I'm feeling pretty good about my nutrition at the moment. I'm managing 6 meals and they all have the necessary requirements. Although a lot of the time I have the same thing at the moment I'm happy with that as it keeps me on track and makes sure that I have the right things. The only area I'm still struggling a little with is breakfast. Although I do ensure that I have at least a shake every morning I know that I should be having solid food. This weekend will see a few fritattas being made and frozen for quick easy nutritious solid breakfasts.
Signing off for now.
We started off with an incline bench press. Until this point, for as long as I've been training with Josh I have only done the flat bench press so in a weird way I was a little excited to be trying something different. It definitely is a different feel to the flat bench press (and a day later I am certainly feeling it in a slightly different way)
Following on from that was the flat dumb bell press. This again is a little different to what we had been doing (inclined dumb bell) however not uncomfortable.
Next up...... the standing shoulder press. Now I have to say this does feel weird. I think my first problem came from the arm position. During the bench press I had to learn to keep my elbows under the bar (just ask Josh, he had to remind me on a very regular basis). So I finally get the hang of it (usually) and so I adopt the same position on the shoulder press........ yep that's not how it's done.
So with the shoulder press you need to turn the elbows more towards the front in order to give the press strength, and let me tell you there really is a difference.
Yet another slightly different exercise to what I had been doing previously was the bench dip (rather than assisted dips on the machine). We have done dips plenty of times in the Blitz sessions however they were easy compared to these. Hands on the edge of a bench, legs straight in front and..... dip. To begin with I thought, ah these are easy, until about the 8th one and I started to struggle getting back to the starting position. After the first set, and the requisite rest between sets, I started on the next set. I was going strong for the first 4 or 5 and then started to falter. At this stage I think Josh found that it's not the easiest exercise to spot lol. After not being able to get to the starting position on the 7th one (literally nothing was moving!) I brought my legs in and that was it.
To finish off Josh had a present for me..........NOT! It was the dreaded Wheel of Death. I know that my abs have strengthen over the last few months however that wheel is still a killer.
Nutrition
I will be honest I'm feeling pretty good about my nutrition at the moment. I'm managing 6 meals and they all have the necessary requirements. Although a lot of the time I have the same thing at the moment I'm happy with that as it keeps me on track and makes sure that I have the right things. The only area I'm still struggling a little with is breakfast. Although I do ensure that I have at least a shake every morning I know that I should be having solid food. This weekend will see a few fritattas being made and frozen for quick easy nutritious solid breakfasts.
Signing off for now.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Work Social Events
After two days of staying on the nutrition wagon, and feeling pretty good about it, today my work area held a morning tea for the "Biggest Morning Tea".
I went along, with protein shake in hand, and was faced with sausage rolls, cakes, biscuits, lollies, party pies, chips and dip. Although there is no rule of "you can't have this or that" there is a sense of making good choices over not so good ones. My choice......... to walk back out of the room.
I had my shake, I didn't need to eat anything else as I was satisfied. And to tell you the truth the smell kind of got to me.
However it did make me wonder, how much of an influence work events and the like are on what we eat in a social and fund raising context? Could there have been better choices on the table? Perhaps. I'm not saying that you need to cater for every food allergy and food craving however I was a little surprised at the lack of fresh food of any description.
Oh well, almost lunch time and almost time for my tuna and bean salad (told you it was a favourite :D)
I went along, with protein shake in hand, and was faced with sausage rolls, cakes, biscuits, lollies, party pies, chips and dip. Although there is no rule of "you can't have this or that" there is a sense of making good choices over not so good ones. My choice......... to walk back out of the room.
I had my shake, I didn't need to eat anything else as I was satisfied. And to tell you the truth the smell kind of got to me.
However it did make me wonder, how much of an influence work events and the like are on what we eat in a social and fund raising context? Could there have been better choices on the table? Perhaps. I'm not saying that you need to cater for every food allergy and food craving however I was a little surprised at the lack of fresh food of any description.
Oh well, almost lunch time and almost time for my tuna and bean salad (told you it was a favourite :D)
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Round Two
Yesterday I commenced my second Metabolic Precision (MP) program with Josh Dickinson at Physique Essentials http://www.physique-essentials.com/
Over the last 8 months Josh has taken me from someone who did limited, if any, physical activity to someone who completed the Nail Can Hill Run and now interested in getting into long distance running (yes you read it right..... running). Also, my food choices are a LOT better than they ever were.
Although nutritional choices have improved there are times that it is less than perfect. Over the weekend I was up in Sydney and I my nutritional choices were not exactly brilliant. (In fact on Sunday I made it to 3pm having only eaten one meal...... not good)
What I now find is that my body tells me when I go off track. It reminds me in no uncertain terms that it likes how I've learnt to eat and does NOT wish to return to my old habits.
The Program
Through this program I will undertake 3 resistance training sessions at the studio with Josh. For the first 4 weeks I will do one session of Intense Cardio Exercise (Saturdays at 8am at Willow Park for a FREE Cardio session with Physique Essentials :D) which will slowly build up over the program.
In addition, the program provides great nutritional instruction and support. Which I have certainly found helpful in determining what works for me. Not everyone is the same however the principles can be followed by everyone.
Session One - let's amp it up
At the studio Josh and I went through the new printouts for the program as well as reviewed the first couple of chapters of the nutritional information. Then came the fun part.......measurements :S.
Compared to 8 months ago, a few centimetres have certainly disappearred however, as anyone who is not happy with their body will tell you, measurements are still not a favourite part (even less satisfying when you find out that a couple of extra centimetres have snuck back on).
then the photos, which admittedly don't scare me as much as they used to. It is interesting to look back over them and remember the person I once was (and have no desire to become again).
Training Time
A quick 10 minutes on the treadmill before the fun really begins. Josh has moved my leg session to Mondays which works great as my cardio sessions are later in the week and believe me after the smashing that Josh gives my legs, I generally find running, jogging or simply plain walking difficult!
Started off with Deadlifts. Even with my very loud knee crunching (if you've never heard my knee I'm more than happy to demonstrate any time hehehe) I like the deadlifts.... although my legs tell me otherwise.
Then onto the Leg Press (aka The Hulk). The weight is not huge however slowly however I'm determined to improve on that each week. I have also learnt that grunting really DOES help push that weight up!
The next exercise was a new one, straight leg deadlifts....... however I'm going to step back a little......
The new exercise is replacing a particular exercise that I will readily admit was NOT my favourite, lunges. However, I have definitely progressed with the lunges. When I started I could barely complete a half rep supported lunge, and by the end I was holding 10kg weights, however I still just simply did not like them.
The position for a straight leg deadlift is a little strange (feet 4 inches apart, bend at the hips, squeeze the shoulder blades, chest up) however I could certainly feel it in the hamstrings and butt.
To finish of the session did some calf raises and then the ever present core work (determined to be able to get elbows to knees without anyone sitting on my feet by the end of this program)
After that session my legs were smashed and that's a great feeling.
Oh did I tell you that to leave the studio you need to climb up stairs.......... took me just a little while to get to the top lol
Nutrition and getting back on track
With my new found resolve on Nutrition I started the day of fairly well (although could do better). Due to a slightly late rising I didn't have time to make my vegetable omelette so quickly wizzed up a tried and true protein shake with plenty of berries and flaxmeal. (This also served as the basis for my morning and afternoon tea meals)
For lunch I had tuna and four bean salad which I will admit has become one of my favourites. Mainly because it is easy and covers the components I need in each meal.
I finished the day off quite well nutritional with Chicken and Salad for dinner and then a protein shake to round out the day.
Over the last 8 months Josh has taken me from someone who did limited, if any, physical activity to someone who completed the Nail Can Hill Run and now interested in getting into long distance running (yes you read it right..... running). Also, my food choices are a LOT better than they ever were.
Although nutritional choices have improved there are times that it is less than perfect. Over the weekend I was up in Sydney and I my nutritional choices were not exactly brilliant. (In fact on Sunday I made it to 3pm having only eaten one meal...... not good)
What I now find is that my body tells me when I go off track. It reminds me in no uncertain terms that it likes how I've learnt to eat and does NOT wish to return to my old habits.
The Program
Through this program I will undertake 3 resistance training sessions at the studio with Josh. For the first 4 weeks I will do one session of Intense Cardio Exercise (Saturdays at 8am at Willow Park for a FREE Cardio session with Physique Essentials :D) which will slowly build up over the program.
In addition, the program provides great nutritional instruction and support. Which I have certainly found helpful in determining what works for me. Not everyone is the same however the principles can be followed by everyone.
Session One - let's amp it up
At the studio Josh and I went through the new printouts for the program as well as reviewed the first couple of chapters of the nutritional information. Then came the fun part.......measurements :S.
Compared to 8 months ago, a few centimetres have certainly disappearred however, as anyone who is not happy with their body will tell you, measurements are still not a favourite part (even less satisfying when you find out that a couple of extra centimetres have snuck back on).
then the photos, which admittedly don't scare me as much as they used to. It is interesting to look back over them and remember the person I once was (and have no desire to become again).
Training Time
A quick 10 minutes on the treadmill before the fun really begins. Josh has moved my leg session to Mondays which works great as my cardio sessions are later in the week and believe me after the smashing that Josh gives my legs, I generally find running, jogging or simply plain walking difficult!
Started off with Deadlifts. Even with my very loud knee crunching (if you've never heard my knee I'm more than happy to demonstrate any time hehehe) I like the deadlifts.... although my legs tell me otherwise.
Then onto the Leg Press (aka The Hulk). The weight is not huge however slowly however I'm determined to improve on that each week. I have also learnt that grunting really DOES help push that weight up!
The next exercise was a new one, straight leg deadlifts....... however I'm going to step back a little......
The new exercise is replacing a particular exercise that I will readily admit was NOT my favourite, lunges. However, I have definitely progressed with the lunges. When I started I could barely complete a half rep supported lunge, and by the end I was holding 10kg weights, however I still just simply did not like them.
The position for a straight leg deadlift is a little strange (feet 4 inches apart, bend at the hips, squeeze the shoulder blades, chest up) however I could certainly feel it in the hamstrings and butt.
To finish of the session did some calf raises and then the ever present core work (determined to be able to get elbows to knees without anyone sitting on my feet by the end of this program)
After that session my legs were smashed and that's a great feeling.
Oh did I tell you that to leave the studio you need to climb up stairs.......... took me just a little while to get to the top lol
Nutrition and getting back on track
With my new found resolve on Nutrition I started the day of fairly well (although could do better). Due to a slightly late rising I didn't have time to make my vegetable omelette so quickly wizzed up a tried and true protein shake with plenty of berries and flaxmeal. (This also served as the basis for my morning and afternoon tea meals)
For lunch I had tuna and four bean salad which I will admit has become one of my favourites. Mainly because it is easy and covers the components I need in each meal.
I finished the day off quite well nutritional with Chicken and Salad for dinner and then a protein shake to round out the day.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Days 12-14 aka Surviving in Sydney
Friday
I knew from the start it would be a challenge nutritional because on these weekends we are usually running around doing alot of stuff and trying to get 6 meals in was going to be interesting.
I started Friday off really well, getting up to make an omelette and ensuring I ate at least 3 meals before my flight at 1:40. All was going well. Gt to dad's and the first thing I did was pop across to the supermarket and bought stuff that was going to help me get through. I grabbed some yoghurt, frozen fruit, flaxseed and dad had the protein powder. Got back and made up a shake. Feeling proud of myself, doing VERY well.
We head out for dinner and we decide on tapas so that made it easy , meats and salads. We came to order drinks and....well..... you see..........
Yep I ordered Vodka and Diet coke. The first of many for the night. Interesting how one little thing can derail the day.
So in summary, from a food point of view I did pretty well, from the drink point of view, not so good.
Saturday
Saturday I woke up feeling not too bad....... I quickly worked out that the reason for that was simple, I was still drunk.
I knew I needed to eat something so Dad and I headed down to Cafe Bondi (in Kings Cross) and I ordered a Spinach Omelette. It tasted good however half way through and I quickly realised that my hangover had snuck up on me. I was NOT happy. We went back up to the apartment and I lay down for a second (read: an hour). After I woke up I certainly felt better however it was also on my mind that it was almost lunch time and I had only had one meal.
Dad and I headed off to the opera and my only choices for food were sushi and finger sandwiches. I didn't NOT want to eat so I choose the finger sandwiches with meats (protein).
After the opera, which was quite enjoyable (and 3 hours long) I grabbed a protein bar, strawberry yoghurt and a couple of fish oil tablets. 4pm and I knew I wasn't going to make the 6 meals however was still going to choose wisely.
At dinner I had Black Angus Tenderloin with mushrooms and beans. After Spring Awakening we headed home, I certainly wasn't up for another night of vodka......
When home, as I night cap I had a berry choc protein shake (with flaxseed) and headed off to bed. I knew I hadn't had a day I could "tick off" as following all the rules however I understand the reasons I didn't have the best day and understand further planning in certain situations is needed.
Sunday
I awoke feeling a LOT better than the day before determined that today was going to be better, and I was.
Breakfast - Scrambled Eggs, Mushrooms and Fish Oil tablets
Morning Tea - Berry choc protein shake with flaxseed
Lunch - Tuna salad
After lunch it was time to head off to the airport to head home. Now those that know me know that I always bring back Krispy Kreme donuts..... mmmmmmmmm donuts......... and today was no different (well different only because I only bought a dozen not 3). I'm walking around with them and you know what, I didn't want one.
I got home and handed over the Krispy Kremes so they were no longer in my possession.
The rest of the day I did fairly well from a nutrition point of view and I could tick the day off :D
(I know I have a few days to catch up however I will over the next couple of days I swear)
I got home and handed over the Krispy Kremes so they were no longer in my possession.
The rest of the day I did fairly well from a nutrition point of view and I could tick the day off :D
(I know I have a few days to catch up however I will over the next couple of days I swear)
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Day Eleven aka you want me to do what?
Today started out the same as yesterday, with every intention of getting up and making omelette. In reality I had yoghurt, protein powder and flaxseed again. The strawberry and protein smoothie at morning tea was great and the Chilli and lime salad.... Well I just LOVED that.
I was feeling pretty good today, in no small part to the compliments I had been receiving (partly new top, partly shape change :D).
So when I headed into the session with Josh I was feeling fairly confident :).
The deadlifts, oh the deadlifts. In all honesty I don't mind the deadlifts (at the moment) and my self correctors, my knees, certainly help to indicate when my forms not the best (oh and Josh yelling at me to improve my form helps :P)
Then the leg press. Josh must have had a LOT of faith in me because he upped the weight..... A little TOO much. After the weight was readjusted down I was able to end that set and then the weight went up again :S (although not as high)
Next up was the lunges, not my favourite exercise (although certainly not my most feared anymore). I find that I struggle a little with balance on this one which doesn't make it easy at all for me.
Next I was introduced to a new exercise, the calf press. I sit in the leg press machine and Josh tells me to just place my toes on the plates. I sit there thinking he must be taking more of the weight off however he simply says "are you ready?"
So he pulls the weight up and I just have to push with my toes..... And you know what? It's not as bad as I thought it was going to be. Could be the answer to my aching calves while walking up slopes :D
We were running out of time so I figured we wouldn't have much time for abs....may not have had much time however still worked them hard with 10 crunches and 10 legs raises as warm ups and then 20 (I swear he originally said 10!) crunches where my elbows had to touch my knees. This was followed by 20 leg raises. I'll tell ya, it hurts to sneeze.
So anyway I'll sign off now. Return to see how I handle the Sydney trip and nutrition ....
I was feeling pretty good today, in no small part to the compliments I had been receiving (partly new top, partly shape change :D).
So when I headed into the session with Josh I was feeling fairly confident :).
The deadlifts, oh the deadlifts. In all honesty I don't mind the deadlifts (at the moment) and my self correctors, my knees, certainly help to indicate when my forms not the best (oh and Josh yelling at me to improve my form helps :P)
Then the leg press. Josh must have had a LOT of faith in me because he upped the weight..... A little TOO much. After the weight was readjusted down I was able to end that set and then the weight went up again :S (although not as high)
Next up was the lunges, not my favourite exercise (although certainly not my most feared anymore). I find that I struggle a little with balance on this one which doesn't make it easy at all for me.
Next I was introduced to a new exercise, the calf press. I sit in the leg press machine and Josh tells me to just place my toes on the plates. I sit there thinking he must be taking more of the weight off however he simply says "are you ready?"
So he pulls the weight up and I just have to push with my toes..... And you know what? It's not as bad as I thought it was going to be. Could be the answer to my aching calves while walking up slopes :D
We were running out of time so I figured we wouldn't have much time for abs....may not have had much time however still worked them hard with 10 crunches and 10 legs raises as warm ups and then 20 (I swear he originally said 10!) crunches where my elbows had to touch my knees. This was followed by 20 leg raises. I'll tell ya, it hurts to sneeze.
So anyway I'll sign off now. Return to see how I handle the Sydney trip and nutrition ....
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Day Ten aka I can do this!
Woke up this morning feeling fairly rested, and running late. After a quick shower and grabbing everything I needed for training this afternoon I was out the door.... with no breakfast :S.
I had already decided to take some protein powder and flaxseed meal into work so I quickly thought what else I had and breakfast became yoghurt, strawberries, protein powder and flaxseed meal, all components covered :). I was still feeling a little less than energised however figured that today's session would help, was determined that today was going to be better.
I kept it together with nutrition throughout the day and was feeling pretty good about that. During a slight downtime at work I came across two articles Josh had written, one on excuses and the second on mindset. These articles ready helped me put things in perspective and I was determined to go into today's session with a different attitude..... and it worked.
Pre supplementation taken care of I was ready for today's session (even though I knew the dreaded dips were included).
We started on the bench press and I will admit I felt stronger. The last couple of reps on last weeks weight were a little shaky however we finished them. Josh of course decided I still had more in me so on went on the weight. I would love to say it was like 10kgs or something however I think it was 500g.....
Still felt strong at the start but then it started to get hard, and I mean really hard. The last rep got to the stage that I hate and love. The point where it feels like that bar isn't going anywhere. You want to keep it from falling on your head however no matter how hard you push it ain't going anywhere. Josh is constantly there to make sure it doesn't fall on your head however it won't help you until that point where you just can't do it......... and somehow you still manage to finish it. On the final push, with Josh's support and encouragement (and perhaps a little help) and a lot of weird twisting and maneuvering from me that barbell got up there. Yay, no flattened head for me today.
It is always great encouragement when your trainer smiles at you and says "that's the hardest you have ever pushed", my afternoon was definitely improving. :)
Next is the inclined barbell press. The first set felt pretty good, although fairly light hehehe
The second set jumped in weight however felt ok.... at the beginning. Towards the end my right started twisting as I was pushing up. What did it think it was a baton for twirling?? The twisting hurt a little although it wasn't the pain making it twist.
So down we went in weight and the bling came back on (that was my plan all along muahahahaha. no really it wasn't, I swear Josh!) This time it was better and I was able to complete the sets not quite as wonkily.
Then onto the dips. Now I will tell you that all day my back, more specifically my lats, were hurting all day. Kept twinging and really bugging me so I wasn't sure how that would effect the dips however I climbed aboard. The warm up set was relatively easy and I didn't feel the niggle that I thought I would. Josh commented that the dips were deeper than last week so that helped the focus :).
The next set was a little more difficult requiring some help from Josh who helped while correcting my form, he can multitask after all. :P I have a habit of crunching down when it gets difficult so have to concentrate on keeping my chest up. That set done and next...... another set of course!
Once the next set was shakily completed I jumped off ready for the next challenge and challenge it is.
When I started going to see Josh I realised that my abs are not exactly the strongest and the carious series of crunches and leg raises hurt and hurt hard. (I've learnt that when he says "Pick a number between 10 and 15... go for the lower number!! It is the difference between the 100 ab reps I could have done and the 225 I did do!!)
However slowly core strength has been improving however today he introduced me to the Wheel of Death (which he belatedly tried to rename the Wheel of Serenity). The Wheel of Death is a little innocent looking wheel with handles either side. The purpose is to smash your abs!
You start in a kneeling position and grasp the handles. You then place the wheel in front of you and find your centre of balance. The next thing is to slowly roll the wheel out in front, and your body follows, then to get back you crunch your abs muscles. Could really feel it.
Well I can tell you that after this session, that ended with a bit of laughter, I certainly felt brighter than on other days. So I'm signing off for the night and will return tomorrow with ... Legs!
Good night all.
I had already decided to take some protein powder and flaxseed meal into work so I quickly thought what else I had and breakfast became yoghurt, strawberries, protein powder and flaxseed meal, all components covered :). I was still feeling a little less than energised however figured that today's session would help, was determined that today was going to be better.
I kept it together with nutrition throughout the day and was feeling pretty good about that. During a slight downtime at work I came across two articles Josh had written, one on excuses and the second on mindset. These articles ready helped me put things in perspective and I was determined to go into today's session with a different attitude..... and it worked.
Pre supplementation taken care of I was ready for today's session (even though I knew the dreaded dips were included).
We started on the bench press and I will admit I felt stronger. The last couple of reps on last weeks weight were a little shaky however we finished them. Josh of course decided I still had more in me so on went on the weight. I would love to say it was like 10kgs or something however I think it was 500g.....
Still felt strong at the start but then it started to get hard, and I mean really hard. The last rep got to the stage that I hate and love. The point where it feels like that bar isn't going anywhere. You want to keep it from falling on your head however no matter how hard you push it ain't going anywhere. Josh is constantly there to make sure it doesn't fall on your head however it won't help you until that point where you just can't do it......... and somehow you still manage to finish it. On the final push, with Josh's support and encouragement (and perhaps a little help) and a lot of weird twisting and maneuvering from me that barbell got up there. Yay, no flattened head for me today.
It is always great encouragement when your trainer smiles at you and says "that's the hardest you have ever pushed", my afternoon was definitely improving. :)
Next is the inclined barbell press. The first set felt pretty good, although fairly light hehehe
The second set jumped in weight however felt ok.... at the beginning. Towards the end my right started twisting as I was pushing up. What did it think it was a baton for twirling?? The twisting hurt a little although it wasn't the pain making it twist.
So down we went in weight and the bling came back on (that was my plan all along muahahahaha. no really it wasn't, I swear Josh!) This time it was better and I was able to complete the sets not quite as wonkily.
Then onto the dips. Now I will tell you that all day my back, more specifically my lats, were hurting all day. Kept twinging and really bugging me so I wasn't sure how that would effect the dips however I climbed aboard. The warm up set was relatively easy and I didn't feel the niggle that I thought I would. Josh commented that the dips were deeper than last week so that helped the focus :).
The next set was a little more difficult requiring some help from Josh who helped while correcting my form, he can multitask after all. :P I have a habit of crunching down when it gets difficult so have to concentrate on keeping my chest up. That set done and next...... another set of course!
Once the next set was shakily completed I jumped off ready for the next challenge and challenge it is.
When I started going to see Josh I realised that my abs are not exactly the strongest and the carious series of crunches and leg raises hurt and hurt hard. (I've learnt that when he says "Pick a number between 10 and 15... go for the lower number!! It is the difference between the 100 ab reps I could have done and the 225 I did do!!)
However slowly core strength has been improving however today he introduced me to the Wheel of Death (which he belatedly tried to rename the Wheel of Serenity). The Wheel of Death is a little innocent looking wheel with handles either side. The purpose is to smash your abs!
You start in a kneeling position and grasp the handles. You then place the wheel in front of you and find your centre of balance. The next thing is to slowly roll the wheel out in front, and your body follows, then to get back you crunch your abs muscles. Could really feel it.
Well I can tell you that after this session, that ended with a bit of laughter, I certainly felt brighter than on other days. So I'm signing off for the night and will return tomorrow with ... Legs!
Good night all.
Days Nine aka Blitzing the Dark
Today was the Blitz session for the week and believe me when that alarm went off I considered going straight back to sleep. However I got up, got dressed and grabbed my pre training shake (protein and glucose) and headed out the door to pick up my Blitz partner and best friend, Simon. Neither of us seemed too perky on this dark and thankfully cooler morning.
When we go to the park it was still pitch black and the light wasn't coming out even as more people arrived. When Josh arrived we headed over to the skate park as it was the only lit portion of the park. One of Josh's great abilities is to adapt to the situation. The area where we could do blitz was narrowed however that certainly didn't diminish the intensity of the session.
Today's session consisted of a lot of squats, step ups, jump squats, push ups, inverted push ups for the brave (which I wasn't), a few laps around the skate park and the ever favourite... burpees.
I was still feeling quite lack lustre and it was evident. I put in what I could however I knew I should have been able to do more.
Finished off with the post training supplement and headed home for a shower and then work (yay). Due to still feeling disappointed in my performance I still felt a little flat for the day (only lifted with an outing with the Girls' Movie Club to see the extremely girly Valentine's Day)
When we go to the park it was still pitch black and the light wasn't coming out even as more people arrived. When Josh arrived we headed over to the skate park as it was the only lit portion of the park. One of Josh's great abilities is to adapt to the situation. The area where we could do blitz was narrowed however that certainly didn't diminish the intensity of the session.
Today's session consisted of a lot of squats, step ups, jump squats, push ups, inverted push ups for the brave (which I wasn't), a few laps around the skate park and the ever favourite... burpees.
I was still feeling quite lack lustre and it was evident. I put in what I could however I knew I should have been able to do more.
Finished off with the post training supplement and headed home for a shower and then work (yay). Due to still feeling disappointed in my performance I still felt a little flat for the day (only lifted with an outing with the Girls' Movie Club to see the extremely girly Valentine's Day)
Day Eight aka the start of week two
I walk into the gym Monday afternoon actually feeling a little flat, as I had been all day. I was tired and a little meh however knew that the session would make me feel a little better.... or so I thought.
We start the session with.... a test! Yep, a nutrition test (told you I was back studying :P). Well apparently I know a little more about nutrition than I thought, however still room for improvement. We went through the chapter for the week and Josh pointed out a few things I hadn't noticed and corrected things I didn't get quite get right (in a nice and patient way of course).
After a quick warm up set on the pull downs we moved towards the machine that is NOT my friend, the dreaded chin up machine. As I said I felt fairly flat, even though I'd kept my nutrition spot on, and the thought of the chin ups terrified me. And boy did it show..... I started off ok however then I started struggling far earlier than I should have. We struggled through the last few agonising reps with a LOT of help from Josh (he is definitely there for you every step of the way.
We then moved to the pull downs and once again the soreness in my forearms restricted me and I didn't pull the weight that I know I'm capable of.
Onto the dumbbell rows and I will admit I felt stronger with those, although I shrugged a lot more than I should have in the rows.
Last and definitely not least was the barbell curl. Now by this time my will is shot, not an excuse however definitely did not go into the curl with the best frame of mind. Started ok again however once again that bar got to a point where it just would not move.... there went the knees and bending of the back again. I almost gave up completely on the last one however Josh wouldn't let me give up and it was completed (although pretty wonkily)
Finished with crunches and leg raises and then I was out of there.
This was probably one time the session didn't lift my mood. No fault of Josh or the exercises, just disappointment in myself.
However I guessed that everyone has days like that and "well, tomorrow's another day...."
We start the session with.... a test! Yep, a nutrition test (told you I was back studying :P). Well apparently I know a little more about nutrition than I thought, however still room for improvement. We went through the chapter for the week and Josh pointed out a few things I hadn't noticed and corrected things I didn't get quite get right (in a nice and patient way of course).
After a quick warm up set on the pull downs we moved towards the machine that is NOT my friend, the dreaded chin up machine. As I said I felt fairly flat, even though I'd kept my nutrition spot on, and the thought of the chin ups terrified me. And boy did it show..... I started off ok however then I started struggling far earlier than I should have. We struggled through the last few agonising reps with a LOT of help from Josh (he is definitely there for you every step of the way.
We then moved to the pull downs and once again the soreness in my forearms restricted me and I didn't pull the weight that I know I'm capable of.
Onto the dumbbell rows and I will admit I felt stronger with those, although I shrugged a lot more than I should have in the rows.
Last and definitely not least was the barbell curl. Now by this time my will is shot, not an excuse however definitely did not go into the curl with the best frame of mind. Started ok again however once again that bar got to a point where it just would not move.... there went the knees and bending of the back again. I almost gave up completely on the last one however Josh wouldn't let me give up and it was completed (although pretty wonkily)
Finished with crunches and leg raises and then I was out of there.
This was probably one time the session didn't lift my mood. No fault of Josh or the exercises, just disappointment in myself.
However I guessed that everyone has days like that and "well, tomorrow's another day...."
And we begin.......Week One
The MP training for me consists for resistence training with Josh 3 days a week (Monday, Wednesday and Thursday) and one Blitz session a week (Tuesday) for the first 4 weeks. (the other 3 days involve less intense activities)
Note: Yes I managed to get myself a three day weekend... hehehe... don't tell Josh.
In addition to the exercise component there is a larger focus on nutrition and how it will aid in making permanent changes. So this part involves reading a chapter and then having a weekly talk about the principles of the program. (and yes I do feel like I'm back at uni :P)
Day One
So day one I turn up thinking "ok we generally do bench press, pull downs, leg press and lunges (ugh). I can handle this".
Now I should point out that just 2 days beforehand Josh opened his new premises and I will just say it is a little larger than the double garage we were training in before..........
So Josh informs me that as we now have 3 training sessions each session will concentrate on a different muscle group (Back, chest and legs - with a couple of extra muscles thrown in for good measure). Day one is back and with a wide smile he simply says, "We are doing chin ups today".
Well I did a chin up straight away, lifting my chin up off the floor "The computer says No!" was my head's first response.
He looked at me and my look of horror and said "have faith"
One of the main problems with Josh's new place is that he has many more instruments of torture..... I mean ways of punishing .... I mean apparatus to assist in increasing strength, fitness and health (is that better Josh?)
He led me to a machine that I had been eyeing off during the open day wondering what the hell it was (apart from a device to tighten weight belts - another story for another time...) and he informed me to "hop on". This nifty little device is an assisted chin up machine (also an assisted dip machine but we'll get to that)
For this blog I'm not going to going through each set . Suffice it to say.... it bloody hurt!!!
From here we went to the pulldown machine and I was relieved simply because I knew what to expect from this beast.... or so I thought. After the chin ups my forearms hurt and I just couldn't do what I normally did. From here we went to the dumbbell row, which I don't mind too much and then he sprung it on me........ barbell curls (I think that look of horror came back)
I lifted the bar just fine and then the weight went on. The first couple no problem, and I'm happily thinking this is ok then it happened......... that bar was not moving how it should. It just wouldn't lift past a certain point. Oh wait, if I bend my knees and curve my back it will move up.... oops not supposed to do that.
Well anyway that was the first official day of MP and I was shattered.
Day Two
The next day I was up at 5am for the weekly Blitz session and I will admit I felt fairly energised and felt like I put in a good session
Day Three
Day three we returned to the gym (and I'm sure he rearranged things again....)
Today was the day to smash my chest, well um you know what I mean. I felt pretty good about this session because my performance on the bench press had been improving and I was feeling pretty good about the dumbbell press.
Bench Press - I did ok. Pushed as hard as I could and I think I did pretty well.
Dumbbell Press - Well of course he had to switch it up, I'm now doing an inclined dumbbell press. Straightaway this felt odd and I knew that I wasn't going to be able to do the sort of weight I was doing on the flat dumbbell press. However did pretty well.... and I got to wear the bling (wrist weights) :D
Then, well, you remember that assisted torture machine? Yep, it re-entered my life. My triceps were still shot from the session on Monday and as I climbed the steps of this machine to do assisted dips I swear I heard them scream in terror.........
My triceps and I got through it however probably not as strongly as we should have.
Following a quick abs session of crunches and leg raises day three was done.
Day Four
By Day Four I figured I should just move into the gym (although that it's fair, I'm there a maximum of 3.5 hours a week and Josh is there a minimum of 14 hours a day!)
Today was the legs session and I was strangely looking forward to it. Josh brought out this strange looking bar set it down and promptly said "10 reps". I looked at him, looked at the bar (actually a trap bar) and asked "Um, what do I do?". I'm pretty sure I think he thought he had introduced me to this before. Well what I had to do was deadlifts, essentially squats with weight, and boy could I feel it!
Next up was the ever wonderful Leg Press. I'm had an issue with knees for a while now however they have been slowly getting stronger and I've been able to slowly progress on this beast of a thing (affectionately known as The Hulk)
Now the next activity was lunges....... not going to dwell on this because I may commence swearing and I'm a lady....... ok ok I'm no lady however the thought of lunges does indeed bring certain words to mind.
After the abs session we were done for the week.
I will post the next week in daily lots (after I have a protein shake - meal 6 for the day :D)
Note: Yes I managed to get myself a three day weekend... hehehe... don't tell Josh.
In addition to the exercise component there is a larger focus on nutrition and how it will aid in making permanent changes. So this part involves reading a chapter and then having a weekly talk about the principles of the program. (and yes I do feel like I'm back at uni :P)
Day One
So day one I turn up thinking "ok we generally do bench press, pull downs, leg press and lunges (ugh). I can handle this".
Now I should point out that just 2 days beforehand Josh opened his new premises and I will just say it is a little larger than the double garage we were training in before..........
So Josh informs me that as we now have 3 training sessions each session will concentrate on a different muscle group (Back, chest and legs - with a couple of extra muscles thrown in for good measure). Day one is back and with a wide smile he simply says, "We are doing chin ups today".
Well I did a chin up straight away, lifting my chin up off the floor "The computer says No!" was my head's first response.
He looked at me and my look of horror and said "have faith"
One of the main problems with Josh's new place is that he has many more instruments of torture..... I mean ways of punishing .... I mean apparatus to assist in increasing strength, fitness and health (is that better Josh?)
He led me to a machine that I had been eyeing off during the open day wondering what the hell it was (apart from a device to tighten weight belts - another story for another time...) and he informed me to "hop on". This nifty little device is an assisted chin up machine (also an assisted dip machine but we'll get to that)
For this blog I'm not going to going through each set . Suffice it to say.... it bloody hurt!!!
From here we went to the pulldown machine and I was relieved simply because I knew what to expect from this beast.... or so I thought. After the chin ups my forearms hurt and I just couldn't do what I normally did. From here we went to the dumbbell row, which I don't mind too much and then he sprung it on me........ barbell curls (I think that look of horror came back)
I lifted the bar just fine and then the weight went on. The first couple no problem, and I'm happily thinking this is ok then it happened......... that bar was not moving how it should. It just wouldn't lift past a certain point. Oh wait, if I bend my knees and curve my back it will move up.... oops not supposed to do that.
Well anyway that was the first official day of MP and I was shattered.
Day Two
The next day I was up at 5am for the weekly Blitz session and I will admit I felt fairly energised and felt like I put in a good session
Day Three
Day three we returned to the gym (and I'm sure he rearranged things again....)
Today was the day to smash my chest, well um you know what I mean. I felt pretty good about this session because my performance on the bench press had been improving and I was feeling pretty good about the dumbbell press.
Bench Press - I did ok. Pushed as hard as I could and I think I did pretty well.
Dumbbell Press - Well of course he had to switch it up, I'm now doing an inclined dumbbell press. Straightaway this felt odd and I knew that I wasn't going to be able to do the sort of weight I was doing on the flat dumbbell press. However did pretty well.... and I got to wear the bling (wrist weights) :D
Then, well, you remember that assisted torture machine? Yep, it re-entered my life. My triceps were still shot from the session on Monday and as I climbed the steps of this machine to do assisted dips I swear I heard them scream in terror.........
My triceps and I got through it however probably not as strongly as we should have.
Following a quick abs session of crunches and leg raises day three was done.
Day Four
By Day Four I figured I should just move into the gym (although that it's fair, I'm there a maximum of 3.5 hours a week and Josh is there a minimum of 14 hours a day!)
Today was the legs session and I was strangely looking forward to it. Josh brought out this strange looking bar set it down and promptly said "10 reps". I looked at him, looked at the bar (actually a trap bar) and asked "Um, what do I do?". I'm pretty sure I think he thought he had introduced me to this before. Well what I had to do was deadlifts, essentially squats with weight, and boy could I feel it!
Next up was the ever wonderful Leg Press. I'm had an issue with knees for a while now however they have been slowly getting stronger and I've been able to slowly progress on this beast of a thing (affectionately known as The Hulk)
Now the next activity was lunges....... not going to dwell on this because I may commence swearing and I'm a lady....... ok ok I'm no lady however the thought of lunges does indeed bring certain words to mind.
After the abs session we were done for the week.
I will post the next week in daily lots (after I have a protein shake - meal 6 for the day :D)
Day One (well really Day Ten.......) aka Introduction
This is a blog I should have started 10 days ago however for those of you that know me, I'm a great procrastinator.
This blog is going to track my progress as I progress through the Metabolic Precision program with my fantastic personal trainer, Josh Dickinson of Physique Essentials .
I first went to see Josh at the beginning of October last year when I finally decided that enough was enough. It was time to lose the weight and make a permanent change. Since then I have been doing resistence training and about 6 weeks ago starting the Metabolic Blitz group cardio sessions The Metabolic Blitz sessions are intense, and I mean intense, 20 minute cardio sessions three times a week. They take minimum about of time each session however you definitely work hard in those 20 minutes!
Since training with Josh I have felt more energised, stronger and fitter. Not only has he my strength and fitness, he's also got me on track to eating better without feeling like I'm dieting, and certainly not eating rabbit food! He is a great motivator and I regardless of how my day is going I look forward to every training session.
Last Monday (Febraury 8, 2010) I started on the next stage of my transformation. I started the Metabolic Precision (MP) program. A holistic approach to fitness, strength, nutrition and wellbeing.
What my intent will be is to blog every day or so to chart my progress which will include not only what training I'm doing but also how I'm feeling generally and how the nutrition is progress (I will even be honest about any not so good choices I may make :P)
So that is what this will all be about. Stay tuned for the next edition which is coming right up....
This blog is going to track my progress as I progress through the Metabolic Precision program with my fantastic personal trainer, Josh Dickinson of Physique Essentials .
I first went to see Josh at the beginning of October last year when I finally decided that enough was enough. It was time to lose the weight and make a permanent change. Since then I have been doing resistence training and about 6 weeks ago starting the Metabolic Blitz group cardio sessions The Metabolic Blitz sessions are intense, and I mean intense, 20 minute cardio sessions three times a week. They take minimum about of time each session however you definitely work hard in those 20 minutes!
Since training with Josh I have felt more energised, stronger and fitter. Not only has he my strength and fitness, he's also got me on track to eating better without feeling like I'm dieting, and certainly not eating rabbit food! He is a great motivator and I regardless of how my day is going I look forward to every training session.
Last Monday (Febraury 8, 2010) I started on the next stage of my transformation. I started the Metabolic Precision (MP) program. A holistic approach to fitness, strength, nutrition and wellbeing.
What my intent will be is to blog every day or so to chart my progress which will include not only what training I'm doing but also how I'm feeling generally and how the nutrition is progress (I will even be honest about any not so good choices I may make :P)
So that is what this will all be about. Stay tuned for the next edition which is coming right up....
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