Let's Get It Started

I am just going to jump right into it. On the 5th I started a new workout - The 30 Day Shred. You have probably heard of it. The 30 Day Shred is a workout created by Jillian Michaels from The Biggest Loser. Check out the link for a sample of this workout.

I have avoided Jillian's workouts in the past because they seemed to be too easy or simple for my tastes. I really like complex moves and things that make you think. It is true that Jillian uses simple moves, but I have quickly learned that they are anything but simple.

I decided to take the jump and try The 30 Day Shred because I have read so many good things about this workout and it was cheap at WalMart.

I workout with a friend and so I informed her we were going to be shredding for the next 30 days. It actually is kind of a break from our normal routine since the workout is only 20 minutes and we usually were pushing an hour.

Anyway, the workout has three levels which go up in intensity. We started on Level 1, obviously. At first it seemed simple. I was like, okay, yeah, this is boring. However, it did challenge me.

Each level uses Jillian's special formula of 3 minutes of strength training, 2 minutes of cardio and 1 minute of abs. You repeat each circuit 3 times for the complete workout on each level.

The first week is now over and I did not see the amazing results I thought I might. Perhaps my results were limited by the fact that despite my fat ass I am in good shape. I have been working out since June so my cardiovascular system and muscles are used to exercise and in the shape to handle some intensity.

I will admit at the beginning of the week my abs were sore. In my defense, though, I have greatly avoided any and all ab exercise. I just hate crunches and wanted to focus more on my arms. It wasn't too bad, though. I could live and move.

I also had some knee issues towards the middle of the week. I have always had knee problems since junior high and deal with this often. My knee hurt so bad when doing the cardio which is mostly jumping and very high impact. I took a day or so doing the moves a little lower impact and my knees are fine.

We did the Shred Monday through Friday. I did pilates on Saturday and so far nothing today. Overall I did see my ability to not scream at Jillian during the cardio improved and the moves in every segment were easier on Friday than on Monday. I can not say, though, that I saw any major improvement in my body's appearance.

We will see what happens next week. So far The 30 Day Shred is a nice workout that does get you sweaty, but nothing any harder than things I have done before.

Measurements from 1-5-09

bicep - 12 1/4
waist - 38
hips - 47
thigh - 26 1/2
calf - 15 1/2

I am not proud to post these, but this is me. I am sure as hell no perfect gal. I have a big butt, what can I say? More cushion for the pushin'. LOL