Well folks.
I did it.
I completed Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred.
And I lived to tell about it!
So many people told me how much they loved level 2
How it was their favorite level.
While in the thick of it, I couldn't for the life of me figure out why.
All those plank moves. And that third strength circuit just about killed me.
Well then I moved onto level 3.
{womp womp}
Kind of a let down.
There was much more focus on strength and a little less on cardio. I was so used to practically dying and being sweaty and out of breath by the end that this last level didn't feel like as much of a workout. I'm not sure if level 3 seemed so easy because I was stronger, or it really was just a step down. I think it was a combination of both. Either way, I finally understood the level 2 love!
Now for my confession.
I weigh pretty much the exact same thing. The first two weeks I stayed the same. The next week I had a big loss only to follow it up by gaining it all back the next week putting me right back where I'd started. To say I was pissed would be the understatement of the century. For over a year I consistently lost weight doing nothing but changing my eating habits. I finally start working out hoping to watch those last few pounds just fall off putting me at goal and instead I lose nothing for 30 days?? I busted my ass for weeks and the scale did nothing?? I was doubting the program and for the first time in 14 months wanted to quit and just be done. I was feeling pretty defeated.
Not to mention all this intense working out flared up the bulging disc in my lower back. {I know, I'm an old lady}
By Day 25 I couldn't do one more day without potentially injuring myself further.
So I took 2 days off to rest and recoop. Both physically and mentally. I needed a break.
Honestly? I thought rest was an important part of working out and was always a little shocked they didn't build any off days into the program. Then again, I'm no trainer, what do I know. But I was smart enough to listen to my body and say enough. Besides, 28 days out of 30 is nothing to be ashamed of! And I'm pretty pleased with the results! Further proof that just because the scale isn't moving, your body is still changing!
Not to shabby for 30 days if I do say so myself!
Am I "shredded?" No.
Do I have a 6 pack or big guns? No.
But the wasn't the point for me.
I wanted to get into a regular workout routine and start toning some of my trouble spots.
Mission definitely accomplished!
Now if only I could figure out to get rid of those dimples on my ass.
Damn cellulite.
So what's next?
I've definitely caught the workout bug!
Finally! Only took 14 months!
I have THREE more Jillian DVDs on the way and I can't wait to try them out.
One is similar to the Shred, quick 20ish minute workouts perfect for days I work or am short on time.
The other two are longer and I'm looking forward to building up some endurance.
I'm not going to go all balls to the wall and workout so many consecutive days. My body needs a little rest thrown in. So does my sanity.
Andplusalso? When the weather finally warms up I'm going to start the couch to 5K program. I never pegged myself as a runner, but I at least want to give it a try. See what I think.
In the meantime, I'm going to pray mother nature gets with the program so maybe I can rock that swimsuit somewhere other than my bathroom!
TGI{almost}F