Week 5 and 6 Progress - Insanity Max 30

It's been a little bit since my last update, two weeks to be exact. My last update was when I completed my 30 days. I lost one pound...YES just one. Why did I only lose that pound, because I was careless with my nutrition. That is the 100% honest truth. You can NOT go through an intense workout program & put yourself through all this to see half a** results. Why would you want to do that? To me that would be just torture and with this program it is far from easy.

This program tests your limits, your true strength, and really makes you get inside your head to go one second longer. This isn't a question of can you or can you not do it. It's about how long can you go for. Could you make it longer than last week. Can you prove yourself wrong. You just don't finish month one and slowly continue into month two. Of course Shaun T throws in new moves and certainly challenges you. What doesn't challenge you, will not change you.

Month Two has begun

Like I have said before time and time again.. cardio is just NOT my thing. I'm not really sure, maybe because I was never good at it, so I never worked to be better. So, when cardio was day one during the start of this program I always dreaded it. Then consistently over time, I was building my endurance and my time was increasing... I was becoming better. When month two came around, I was extremely excited. I had a feeling it was going to be totally different, but challenging in a way & boy was I correct. It's a new month, so it is going to take some time to learn the months, but slow and surely I got them down, and with my endurance built up I surprised myself and made it to double digits.


Month Two Workout Schedule -

Monday : Max Out Cardio
Tuesday : Max Out Sweat
Wednesday : Max Out Power
Thursday : Max Out Strength
Friday : Friday Fight - Round 2
Saturday & Sunday are still for rest days with an optional workout PULSE.

I use Saturday and Sundays to get my head right and reflect. I sit down and see where I really struggled during the week and what I need to work on better. What can I do to be better. Nutrition has been one thing that is truly a struggle. I have always struggled because I have never really been much of a cook and it has never been much of my thing. So I have been trying to get better, little by little. Another thing I need to do is channel my inner me and dig a little deeper in my workouts.

I found this quote the other day and just had to laugh. Because sometimes this is how I feel. You work so hard and you try everything in your power to get your six Pack abs and they just don't seem to becoming in like you want them too. But we all have to stop and remind ourselves this is a lifestyle change. Those abs aren't going to come in overnight. It takes hard work, exercise, nutrition, and dedication over time. Set goals for yourself and keep a plan in mind. Don't get frustrated when you don't see results overnight. Take weekly pictures & measurements so you can see how far you are coming. Focus on your non-scale victories. And be proud of how far you make it each day.

 

There are a few things that get me through Insanity Max. After my workout is post workout fuel. An apple for fuel to boost my metabolism. And the orange drink is P90X results and recovery. It helps repair muscles after an intense workout. Get a glass of cold water, two spoonful's, mix together, and drink. The bottom picture is something I have been adding in first thing in the morning to help aid digestion. You can read the healthy benefits HERE.

 

This week for nutrition I am going to try to eliminate dairy, keep my shakeology with water, and really stick to eating from my meal plan. Sometimes for me it is hard because I get busy with work and lose track of time. My metabolism is low and then I want to eat every carb in site. I will also be sticking to my two carbs a day. Lately, I have been sneaking in an extra one here and there, eating popcorn when I want to, and over doing it with rice. Just because I eat healthy doesn't mean I can go overboard.

 

 

This was one of my favorite recipes of the week. Easy Burrito Bowls from chipotle.

 

 

 

I know that my endurance is increasing. And I am getting stronger because I can do more push-ups standing on my feet vs. going down on my knees. My shoulder muscles are starting to come in. Moves that were difficult or I had to modify are getting easier and I am getting better. I feel stronger and like I can conquer the world. But this program is defiantly working because I am seeing muscles again in my calves, my abs are starting to come back, my arms are leaning out. I can't speak anything but good things about it. And remember I was NEVER a cardio girl, lifting is more my scene.

 

 

It's not always easy to get up and push play but you just have to remember your WHY. Is it strong enough to motivate you and not give up. Can you challenge yourself to be better than yesterday. Don't look at where you started and compare yourself to others. Are you plugged into a support system where individuals can keep you on track & help you reach your goals. If you need help getting on track or want to be apart of my next accountability group, take a moment to fill out the application.

 

 

  

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Insanity Max 30 : Thirty Day Update

Half way through Insanity Max

I first off have to apologize for not blogging about my week two & three updates. I wrote about them and thought I clicked publish, but never did. So you are getting my thoughts on weeks two-four.

I told you before, I never tried Insanity because it really scared me. I was never really a cardio girl and I would choose anything else other than intense workouts. See, I was always that girl wanted the results, but would do half the work. I wanted the results fast with doing that bare minimum. THAT JUST DOES NOT WORK! Also, when they say you cannot out exercise a bad diet, they are right.

 

 

This is the case in my thirty day progress. I pushed myself to the MAX on all my workouts. I really go into my workouts letting everything go and trying to do one more rep longer than before. But I can workout until I am blue in the face, if I am not focusing on the nutrition piece of it I won't see the best results. this is where the sitting down and meal planning comes into action. Also, really sticking to my portions. With Insanity Max they do a great job with including the 21 day fix portion control, they tell you exactly how much you should be eating. I must admit my nutrition has been off. I haven't done terrible, but I certainly have been lazy to not make a meal plan and kinda just fly by on the seat of my pants. I had a pity party for myself after I was feeling blah & decided since month one was over, I was going to be on my game starting month two.

 

 

I haven't really been using the 80/20 rule when it comes to eating. Always making sure I have my shakeology in the morning, along with my snacks, but I've missed a few snacks. I haven't been eating every 2.5 - 3 hours. I stopped using a timer at work and I have been busy that more than 3 hours pass before I have my snack which causes my metabolism to slow down & sometimes make bad choices and go grab a bag of pretzels instead of my fruit & almonds.  Out of sight out of mind... right? I never buy junk food or sweet treats to keep at my house, because I know if it is here I will eat it, and I have no control. Even though I know I shouldn't eat it and it isn't going to help me reach my goals, but some how my mind always seems to win. EPIC FAIL!!!! I know what I need to do, but food has always been a constant battle for me.

 

 

Eric has committed to doing Insanity Max with me. And some days because of our schedules we cannot workout together, but when we do we both feel that we push harder than by ourselves. For me I feel it is because I don't want to "fail" in front of him, but honestly that is the whole idea behind the program. He has been a champ throughout this first month, I will say that he has missed a few days here and there & his nutrition isn't all that great; he is still working out & honestly that is a HUUUUGE step from having to twist his arm to run with me & at home workouts....he never wanted to do!

 

 

I'm not sure if Eric took his measurements from day one & I don't believe he did for day thirty. I do know he took his weight, but hey one step at a time with him... right? This is the longest he stuck to a home program so I do have to say I am proud of him. With that said here are my pictures day 1 from day 30.....

 

Gave it my all during the thirty days, never skipped a workout, but my nutrition was all over the place.

 

 

 

I don't even recognize the person from day one. I was totally uncomfortable and it even looks like I am trying to suck in everything from my bottom picture. From day one to day thirty it looks as though I have some progress. Ready for the stats??

 

 

Day 1 -

 

Weight 142.8

R & L Arm 10.5

Chest 32.5

Hips 36

Waist 32

R & L Thigh 21.5

 

Day 30 -

 

Weight 141.8

R & L Arm 10

Chest 29.5

Hips 35

Waist 28

R & L Thigh 19

 

In this whole thirty days I lost ONE pound...yes ONE! But I lost 11 inches. It seems kinda weird, I know because I only lost a lb, but I feel slimmer. And I truly never measure my progress but the scale. Although, I am a little discouraged, it is no ones fault but my own. I must start writing down my food & really be prepared. If you want the results, you must do the work. Even the work you really stink at!! So, it is on to month two and I am determined to make this month the best one yet. I am giving my all & really focusing on my nutrition.

 

 

If you are ready to get started on your health & fitness journey. Or need help getting back on track, I am starting an EXCLUSIVE Insanity Max TEST GROUP. Please take a moment to fill out the application listed below to be considered.

 

 

 

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Mixed Veggie Salad with Grilled Chicken Breast

I'm so thankful to have this little treat for lunch. Shaun T. always knows to spice things up. Something simple, light, and refreshing.

Cumin Baked Chicken
 
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach
- 3/4 cup  shredded or chopped grilled chicken
- 1/4 cup chopped tomato
-  1/4 cup  cucumber
- 1/4 cup  bell pepper
- 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms...I don't eat mushrooms so I skip this one
- 1/4 sliced avocado
- 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice

 

 

 

 

1. Place spinach in a large serving bowl.

2. Top with chicken, tomato, cucumber, bell pepper, mushrooms, and avocado.

3. Drizzle with oil and lemon juice, toss gently to blend.

 

 

 

 

And remember to make sure you have a fork to eat your lunch! Or you'll be stuck like me with a spoon.

Overview : Day One Insanity Max 30

Have you got your Insanity Max yet?

Have you tried it?

I have to share my initial thoughts. I never did the original insanity. I never had an desire too. Honestly I was always afraid of Shaun T. He was way too intense for my liking & I never really was a cardio girl. But I decided to give it a try....why you may ask?

 

1. So I knew what the program was like and I could talk about it to others. You can't really talk about something/recommend it if you haven't experienced it yourself.

2. Honestly I've been slacking off on my workouts and nutrition lately.  I really haven't had my head in the game lately: I've been going for run, eating semi healthy, & my portions are just out of this world.

3. I never did insanity. Can you believe that? One of the first programs with Beachbody and I never did it. Because I never considered myself a cardio girl. I loved lifting weighs and building muscle, but lie I said before he (Shaun T) scared the living crap outta me.

4. Needed a change. They say what doesn't challenge you ; doesn't change you. I've been getting "bored" with my workouts and I was just going through the motions.

This program going to be insane! High impact but you can always use a modifier. It's all about pushing yourself, digging deeper, & getting inside your head to challenge yourself to be better. I'm only in day two of the program and I love it. Although, right now I won't lie I dread the workouts...only because I have no idea what to expect. He really does channel your inner you & kinda makes you think. Are you pushing hard enough or whipping out. And for a nicer use of words he kicks you BOOTAY! 

If you are looking for a challenge. Something to push you hard. Give you a reality check. And get insane results in 60 days ..... THIS IS YOUR PROGRAM!

GET ON IT!

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR!!!

 

Insanity Max 30 : ARE YOU READY TO MAX OUT?

ME- Oh my goodness!!!!

Can I let you in on a little secret?!.......

ME- Insanity Max 30 has been released this week.

YOU- what's that? Never heard of it?

ME- you know the creator of insanity, hip hop abs, t25, & more?

YOU- are you talking about Shaun T?

ME- Yes !!!! He's at it again, but this time I think this program is going to be a GAME CHANGER!!!! 30 minute workouts, 5 days a week, & instead of pushing yourself to the end you want to MAX OUT.

 

YOU- what do you mean by "max out?"

ME- you push until you can't go anymore. And when you can't you revved your time & get back in when you can.

YOU- wow! Sounds intense. What if you've never done a Shaun t program before? Could I still do this one?

ME- their are modifiers so yes. This program is for ones who need modifiers, athletes, runners who want to improve their time, someone who want to tone up using their body weight, etc. if you have your mind set, you can do it.

YOU- how does one get a hold of the newest Beachbody program.

ME- funny you should ask....Since its been released this week you can contact your coach.

YOU- what if you don't have a coach? Then what do you do.

ME- I would love to help you reach your goals with this program, help you right along the way, & be your coach. If you'd like me to be your coach , just signup for a free membership here : http://www.alyssayourish.blogspot.com/p/free-membership.html

YOU- then how do I purchase? 

ME- once you sign up all you have to do is send me a message & I will send you the direct link. This link will take you right to the website where you can choose your flavor of Shakeology (I always recommend the combo box because you get to try three of the many flavors at once. So if you get bored with a flavor you have other options), click the checkout button, & your confirmation number should pop right up on that screen. Once it has just make sure you send it over...I like to keep track of the orders in case something happens & it's not right.

YOU- great! I'll order here shortly. Do you think I can do this by myself for 60 days? What if I don't feel like working out or want to quit. What if I don't like Shakeology.

ME- first try the shakes for the 60 days I can almost promise you that you'll love them. It took me awhile to like them because I wasn't making them right but I'll help you with that. Next, you aren't in it alone. Didn't I tell you?? Once you order your challenge pack you also reserve your spot in the accountability group. It's a closed Facebook group where each day other challengers just like you are in there posting. And I will share tips, recipes, motivation right along side of you. This is my first time doing the program too!!

YOU- really !? Okay...I'm ready to do it!!

ME-so glad to have you in the challenge with me! Remember it's not always going to be easy, but that's why we have each other because it's SOOOOO going to be worth it. And you'll already be a month ahead of all the gym goers & new years resolutions this year!!!!

 

Are you ready to MAX OUT? Turn up the heat with your workout routine & need a little push to get you there. Get a jump start on the weight loss train, feeling great for the holidays? Or do you have a few more questions, feel free to email me : alyssayourish@gmail.com

Now accepting applications ; please fill out the challenge application below! 

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Beta Phase: Week 1-3

If you have been waiting for my weekly update on Beta I am apologizing to you RIGHT NOW! I have NOT made a weekly post since the last week of Alpha. My mistake, I had both week one & two completed but just NEVER published them! And now it is time for week 3 as well so your getting a whole lot of information all in one!

Beta is WOWZERS!!! It is a notch up from Alpha for sure, but in a good way. You certainly do not start off slow with knee raises, rather jump right in and get to breakin' a sweat! Your speed is increases from the second Shaun T says, "your focus starts now." And it does not stop until he says TIME. 

I will officially say it is time for me to buy new shoes. I am the cheapest girl when it comes to buying new workout sneakers as for me to say this they must be bad. The one way I knew right away, was when I started to do speed kicks. For thirty seconds you are kicking as fast as you can while one leg acts as a base leg. And that base leg the outside part of my foot/bone was really starting to hurt. It felt like I was putting too much pressure on it. So new workout kicks here I come! 

Remember from the last round how spider lunges were just not my favorite at the beginning and I really needed practice? Well in Beta you do running spider lunges !!!! And nope I don't need practice I feel like these are the coolest thing ever!!!! You are constantly moving, not stopping which makes it better. I feel like I am running away from someone or something. Get yourself in the act, and just have fun with your workouts. I know it sounds crazy and you may not understand why I like these, but just give them a try for me....please?

With Alpha you were at least a lower pace not always nonstop/going. There were places even if the timer kept going, you knew the exercises were starting slow where you could sneak in a quick drink. Honestly with Beta, it seems that if you do want to take a drink you miss the whole thirty second exercise! Get my drift?? And hey sometimes a girl just needs her drink...right?! Beta is just in a whole new world!!

Week 1 Schedule:

Monday- Core Cardio

Tuesday- Speed 2.0

Wednesday- Rip't Circuit

Thursday- Dynamic Core

Friday- Upper Focus & Core Cardio

Week 2 Schedule:

Monday- Dynamic Core

Tuesday- Core Cardio

Wednesday- Rip't Circuit

Thursday- Upper Focus

Friday- Rip't Circuit & Speed 2.0

Week 3 Schedule:

Monday- Core Cardio

Tuesday- Upper Focus

Wednesday- Speed 2.0

Thursday- Rip't Circuit

Friday- Dynamic Core & Speed 2.0

I have to say out of each workout in this round there isn't one that makes me a little sluggish in the morning knowing that it is on the schedule for the day. I truly love each of these workouts and I think it is because they are fast paced, always on the move, sweating up a storm kinda workouts. Sounds fun right? Can you truly sit and think for a minute of something that is your stress reliever. Something that just gives you a natural rush of energy and you feel like you can conquer the world after. Something that you are just truly truly passionate about. You know this will always make you feel good, it is your "go" to?? I have to say working out is MY "go" to. I can count on a good workout, for stressful days, just when I feel like working up a sweat, just for something to do, or to let go of some frustration. I love how I feel right after working out. I feel like I get up, go workout, and when I am done it is like a fresh slate. A clean start to the day.

Speed 2.0 is my number all time favorite workout. I did not like Speed 1.0 because I could not get my feet and hands to move together. This one there is just something about it. It is set up different than speed 1.0. There are two different rounds,  three different levels-each level increasing with speed over time. The last round is straight from the top. You combine every exercise from rounds one and two as a last final go around.

 

I love the program...not just because this is twenty-five minutes. But it is quick and effective. I have been at this program for eight weeks and I can feel my stamina increasing as before even thoughtI was in shape, some exercises really pushed myself hard and sometimes I needed to stop and catch a breath. I can feel my muscles getting stronger & slowly but surely I am getting my abs!!

 

So moving forward to week 4 and the program is almost over. I can't believe it. It's amazing how fast these programs & challenges go when you find something that you love and stick with. It takes 21 days to create a habit. The rest is dedication and commitment.

 

Are you looking for more accountability & support. Want to be apart of a group of individuals who are just looking for the extra encouragement. Ready to learn about clean eating & a healthy lifestyle change? Or if you are just looking for more information and want to discuss anything at all please feel free to email me at alyssayourish@gmail.com and I would be happy to help!!!

 

Weekly Update: Week 3 T-25

Plank Taps

Weekly Schedule :

Monday- Total Body Circuit
Tuesday- Speed 1.0
Wednesday- Lower Focus
Thursday- Cardio
Friday- Total Body Circuit & Ab Intervals

Ahhhhh! Another week has come and gone. Can you believe it? I know I can't. It seems like I just started this program, and it is flying by. The whole month of September is flying by and soon another month will have come and gone. Time flies by way too fast, it is gone in a blink of the eye.

 

 

I really loved working out this week. I know you are probably thinking about is that possible when last week was just an EPIC fail and I was just struggling all over the place. But I went into week 3 with a positive mindset. I have been getting up each day, looking at myself in the mirror and saying just go further than you did before. Do one extra push-up or burpee and you have made progress. So that is exactly what I did.

 

 So, total body circuit is something I just have not been able to like, because it is not just one particular body area you are working. You are working every single part, from top to bottom- in twenty-five minutes (can you imagine how intense)?? Lunges have never been a friend of mine and there are some MAJOR lunges. Short lunges, deeper lunges, pulse lunges, and then you hold your lunge without pulsing. Talk about a BURN!!  Next on the list are oblique push-ups. Where has my muscle strength gone. I feel so weak when it comes to these, but I start on my feet for rep #1 and then drop to my knees when I have too. (Hey, I am a work in progress). A positive from last week, is I did a TON better with spider push-ups. (pat on the back for me).

 

I have not stepped on the scale since starting my journey. I don't want to, because sometimes the scale tends to get in our minds. But I can tell you that since starting, I feel lighter, no bloating, and overall better!!

 

 

Speed 1.0 remember when I said I wasn't an athlete, well I really am not. But I can say I decided to focus on my speed with my feet over mastering the moves perfect with both hands & feet. If I tried to focus on both I would end up thinking too much and trip over my feet. My cross jacks got a little bit better, but then my squat-thrust crossovers I just couldn't keep up with the fast pace as Shaun T was doing. This burnout was particularly longer than any other burnout. Nine minutes TOTAL. When I say there are no breaks there are NO breaks.

 

An important part of a workout routine is your nutrition. It makes it easier each week to succeed if you sit down and plan out your meals. This gives you any excuse to fall off plan. If you follow your meal plan you are giving yourself no reason but to succeed. Sit down and plan all your meals out for the week. Once you do that make your list and head to go food shopping. When you get home prep all your food. Cut up fruits and veggies, cook off your chicken, put your snacks in portioned baggies so it is just a grab and go. Have food with you in your car in case you get stuck at work late one night or even in traffic. Set yourself up for success, don't set yourself up to fail!

 

 

 

Try new recipes. Look for your favorite "unhealthy" recipe and look for a healthier version. Usually it is only one simple ingredient. For example, most people mix tuna fish with mayo. Instead of using mayo next time you make your tuna fish swap it out for plain Greek yogurt. Half the calories, but still tastes just as good.

 

 

Are you  struggling with creating your own meal plans and are looking for a Beachbody Fitness Program to get you back on track - Let's have a conversation. I would love to help you during your own personal journey. We all have been there at some point or another! Sometimes we just need a little help getting back on track! Slowly incorporating clean eating and healthy habits daily have helped me succeed to where I am today. If you are looking to find a program and create your own meal plan message me and I will get back to you as soon as possible to discuss everything with you and your goals you have in mind.