This page is dedicated to my first round of P90X. For anyone who stumbled upon it, I am not a Beach Body (developers of P90X) coach, or plan on being one. I am just documenting what this program did for me; take whatever information you want from it. I know that if you search the web for reviews or opinions on P90X, about 99% of the results are from coaches who are going to try and sell it. The only thing I have done here (other then document my journey) is link to the official website if you want to get it. I don't care if you do or not, I just wanted to share my experience. By the end of this page you'll get my honest thoughts measurements (and pictures) to decide if you can benefit fromP90X.
To keep it in the subject of this "travel" blog, next to each day/week that I update, you will see where I was when I completed the day's/week's routine(s). There should be some interesting locations. In case you are all wondering what this workout is, check out the P90X Official Website.
To keep it in the subject of this "travel" blog, next to each day/week that I update, you will see where I was when I completed the day's/week's routine(s). There should be some interesting locations. In case you are all wondering what this workout is, check out the P90X Official Website.
Saturday July 31, 2010
P90X has been ordered (along with resistance bands and chin-up bar) and is in transit via UPS. It should be delivered on Tuesday. I will start the fitness program on Monday August 9. Stay tuned.
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Monday August 9, 2010 (Dallas/Home)
Day 1 - Measurements, Photos, Chest and Back + Ab Ripper X
So my first day on the P90X program was pretty brutal. Immediately following my alarm, I took body measurements and "before" pictures.
The horrible measurements were as follows:
Body Fat %: 24.4 (using calipers)
Weight: 258.9 lbs
Waist: 42.25
Chest: 44.25
Right Thigh: 26
Left Thigh: 24.25
Right Arm: 14.75
Left Arm: 14.50
Drastic improvement is obviously needed. Pictures will only be posted when updated pictures (day 90) are done.
The first workout is Chest and Back. The workout is 12 routines that you do twice. It tells you to pace (the first go around), but that's hard when you haven't done this kind of workout. I thought I was pacing, but in the end, 1/2 way through round 2 I was zapped. The routines are basically a mix of pull-ups (I did mine with resistance bands) and push-ups.
I tried to go right into Ab Ripper X, but the 11 exercises there were too much after just 2. I was gassed. I decided to push the Ab workout to after work.
I did my workout first thing in the morning after measurements. Unfortunately, shortly after the workout, I threw up all the water I had consumed during the workout. I don't know if it was because I worked out hard, had nothing in my stomach, drank too much water or what. Only more trial and error will let me know.
After filling up my fridge with the food requirements of the P90X nutrition plan, it was back to Ab Ripper X (only a 16 min workout) after work. I fared much better, although well short of the pros on the DVD. I felt comfortable that I pushed it and will feel it in the next couple of days.
Talk to you all tomorrow.
Tuesday August 10, 2010 (Dallas/Home)
Day 2 - Plyometrics
Today was Plyometrics. Over 45 minutes of jumping, squatting and lunging cardio. I'm pretty sure I will feel this for the next couple of days. Each exercise is only 30 seconds, with a 1 min exercise thrown in every 4. As with the first workout, I did the best I could. I couldn't keep up with the speed of the instructors, but I did my own pace in each exercise to feel the burn and keep the heart rate up.
I ended up doing this routine after work. It was accidental as I forgot to set my alarm last night even though I went to sleep nice and early. I'm actually glad I made that error. I found I had much more energy than in the morning. Therefore, I am now going for after-work workouts. I will not make plans for anything until 7pm if someone wants to do something.
All in all, there is no doubt that the plyo workout does it's thing. I will be sore and I burned a ton of calories (near 1000 according to my heart rate monitor). If this was the hardest workout of the bunch, I'm happy to say I should be able to survive this program.
Wednesday August 11, 2010 (Dallas/Home)
Day 3 - Shoulders and Arms + Ab Ripper
The legs were starting to hurt today as the day went by. Yesterday's Plyometrics workout did quite a number on me. However, as Tony Horton (instructor) says, I "kept pushing play." So my living room is now a full on gym: push-up bars, resistance bands, and now a yoga mat (much more comfortable to do the ab workout).
After work (an afternoon workout seems to be better for me; more energy) it was time for Shoulder and Arms. LOTS of use of the bands today (I don't have dumbbells). At 6'5" I was afraid, at first, to extend the bands very far. But sooner or later, I told myself "wtf" and fully extended them on some of the shoulder press exercises. They worked great. The workout was great; I especially felt it in the triceps.
I took like an hour pause between the workout and the Ab Ripper wrokout. Probably could have waited a little more. While I completed more exercises, I was still too gassed to do all of many of each exercise. I'm determined to do better at the ab exercises. In due time though; this is not a sprint.
All in all, today was a "lighter" workout, relatively speaking compared to Plyo.
Thursday August 12, 2010 (Dallas/Home)
Day 4 - Yoga
Today, walking is difficult. My quads are in pain. I am using the elevator at work to go up one floor (don't laugh). Getting in and out of seated positions is pure torture. Damn you Plyo!!!!
Yoga??? That's for girls no? What kind of sissy does Yoga? Yeah, that was my thinking about Yoga before ever attempting it. However, it's part of the routine, so gotta do it. 90 minutes????? WTF????
It took me about 20 minutes to realize how difficult this stuff is. Yoga requires a MASSIVE amount of core strength..... that I don't have. In addition, some of the holds required some leg strength; they're in pain. By 20-30 minutes I was dripping sweat WAY more than on any workout (except maybe Plyo).
All in all, though long, I LOVE Yoga and can't wait to get back at it.
Friday August 13, 2010 (Dallas/Home)
Day 5 - Legs and Back + Ab Ripper
Legs??????? Are you kidding me? This afternoon my legs had barely gotten to "tolerable." Now I have to give them a complete workout? I hate you Tony Horton!!!!
I ended up loving the legs workout. Very tough though. If you are curious, lean up against a wall, slide down to a seated position and see how long you can last. One exercise even has us doing that on one leg. OUCH!!! Lots of lunges during this workout too.
As far as the back stuff, I finally put together the P90X pull-up bar. It's installed and ready for use. I used it for the first few back exercises, but I don't know. I can't do a pull up to save my life. So I used my legs as leverage (Tony is OK with that), but didn't feel it working too well on my back. Therefore, on the second go around (we do the exercise routines twice), I went with the bands and felt more action. Maybe in due time I will use the bar.
After the workout I joined some friends for the evening. I was very good and only drank water as they enjoyed alcoholic beverages. I don't want to ruin this commitment over some stupid drinking. Sure I bummed a few cigarettes, but I don't feel guilty about that.
You are probably wondering about Ab Ripper. Well, like I sad, I'm committed. Therefore, I did AbX when I got home at midnight. I did very well, in my opinion. I got about 15 reps of each exercise (maybe a couple I couldn't). I've finally seen progress; thanks to Ab Ripper X. It's good motivation. When I consider that Monday I couldn't do but a few reps and I am now up to 15; things are looking up.
Just one more day before rest. Woo hoo!
Saturday August 14, 2010 (Dallas/Home)
Day 6 - Kenpo
Alas, we conclude week 1 with Kenpo X. A mix of martial arts type kicks and punches. I could definitely feel the shoulders get a workout in this session, let alone the cardio. I'm sure the legs took a whack too, but mine are already shot anyways. Thankfully tomorrow is a rest day.
So week one is done. I have to admit, that it is less intimidating than I thought. The key to success, I think, is to do YOUR personal limit. Don't try on week 1 do do what the instructors on TV are doing. These guys are in TOP physical shape. Most people starting P90X, like me, are completely out of shape. The point is that you are there, every day, pushing play and getting your workout on. The mix of exercises in a week works all your muscles, including the all important core, and you will slowly start feeling/looking different. I've already heard from a couple of people that they already see changes. My only thought is that my posture has changed. The weight and toning should come by the end of Day 90.
Another important aspect is nutrition. Sure it's going to get old eating the same menu day in and day out. Some minor changes here and there should help. However, I'm looking here at a 90 day sacrifice. I went out last night and just ordered a steak and grilled mushrooms (nothing else). It was a nice large 12 oz and I was full. Done.
OK.. enough of this. P90X is awesome, love the yoga especially. Looking forward to many more weeks.
Since next week is the same rotation as this week, I will update toward the end of the week or if anything awesome happens (like I can do a pull up).
BRING IT!
Week 2 (Dallas and San Diego)
The week 2 format was the exact same as week 1. Therefore, instead of itemizing each workout, I will give you my thoughts on the progression and other tidbits from the week in a more bullet style format. So here goes:
- Pain - week 2 was pain-free for the most part; nothing like week 1 when I had to take an elevator to go up/down one floor. This week I only felt minor pain in the arms, legs and back.
- More reps and more weight – I definitely got more reps and pulled more weight this week than last. Must mean improvement if you ask me.
- Better cardio – I felt drastic improvement on my cardio workouts (Plyometrics and Kenpo). I could go longer on each exercise and do more reps.
- The hell they call Ab Ripper X – Continuous improvement in the number of moves. This session has 349 moves that work your abs. While I’m a long way from 349, I am in the 200s. Week one I was around 100.
- Diet – I have been very good on the diet. I could probably eat a little MORE, but I am keeping in balance with the guide in regard to servings of each type of food (protein, carb, fat etc). I did sneak in a slice of Red Velvet (from Nothing Bundt Cakes). But I was well low on calories that day.
- Yoga – I felt a very nice improvement on my yoga ability in week 2. I was able to do many more of the moves/posses. Felt like a great accomplishment.
- Out of Town – Kenpo was performed in San Diego; my first traveling workout. Starting week 4, there will be 4 straight weeks of traveling workouts.. good luck me.
Changes – the million dollar question is “have I lost weight or is it working?” In all honesty, I know it’s working in many ways. I jumped on the scale on Monday morning (of week 2) and noticed 3 lbs lost. Was that enough? Of course. What you don’t realize in this program is that you are packing on muscle. So while I’m losing fat, I’m adding muscle. With muscle being denser than fat, I have to expect that my weight loss will be minimum until I plateau on the muscle building (which should be in months 2 and 3). Instead, I’m feeling stronger, the waistline is slimming and there is more definition around my various muscles. Yes, this works.
Still going strong!
Still going strong!
Week 3 (Dallas)
Week 3 was the last repeat week of Phase 1 (the first 4 weeks). Therefore, I will again just bullet my thoughts:
- Pain: Like week 2, the pain was non existent this week. That doesn't mean that I am not working it hard. I sweat like crazy and am absolutely zapped by the end of the workout.
- Reps and Weight: P90X provides you workout sheets so that you can keep track of your reps and weight for every exercise (where you lift). I do this diligently. When I compare my reps and weight from week 1, I see drastic improvement. Across the board, I have doubled the weight I use (resistance bands in my case) and have increased my max reps. I love it.
- Cardio: Plyo is still not a walk in the park. Kenpo is just flat out fun; I dig all the punching and kicking (I think of a few of you.. lol). Both of these sessions burn almost 1000 calories (based on my heart rate monitor). WOW!
- Ab Ripper X: I love that I am doing better at this hell. It means my abs are getting stronger. While I am still a ways off all 349 moves, I'm up to over 250.
- Yoga: Similar to Ab Ripper, I love that I have improved at yoga. I still sweat like a freak, but at least I can do almost every move (damn "crane" is still impossible). I purchased a yoga block this week in order to be able to do some of the exercises I was unable to last week. I just don't have the flexibility on some moves and need the block to stabilize where the instructors have their hands on the floor. It will come I'm sure.
- Diet: Being home, I was pretty much spot on this week on the diet. During the week, I eat the same thing for breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner (only a small variety). It's the weekend where it gets difficult with weekends being more spontaneous than the week schedule. I seem to not eat enough on the weekends. Oh well. Saturday night I went out to dinner with some friends and probably ate an extra serving of carbs over my allowance. I wasn't worried since I was so low on calories that day.
- Travel: None this week; but here comes 4 weeks out of town.
- Changes: P90X recommends that we don't take measurements until day 30. I decided to take a quick look and took some measurements on Sunday. I checked out my weight (down over 5 lbs), waistline (lost over and inch) and arms (grew over a quarter inch around). I love the changes. I felt them since I am able to wear pants/jeans and shirts I couldn't before (due to the round belly).
The next weeks should be interesting with my traveling really ramping up.
BRING IT!
Week 4 (Greenville, SC and Dallas)
Week 4 was the first "recovery week" in the P90X program. In addition, this week I had to travel to Greenville, SC for some work training. So that meant that this would be my first test at a true "out of town" workout schedule. So here's the low-down. I'll break it out by day since the workouts were different than the first 3 weeks. I was lodged at an Embassy suite, so it was nice having a large area to work out in. Embassy Suites is a perfect hotel for this type of training.
- Mon: Yoga X. Won't speak much about Yoga since I have done it for several weeks now. I do keep seeing improvement; which I think is key. I still sweat like a pig; which means calorie burning baby!
- Tues: Core Synergistics. This was the first time performing this workout. I also performed this workout out at 10pm after a dinner and hanging out with co-workers (dedication is key). This workout concentrates on your core muscles; and believe me when I tell you it is an a** kicker. It became quickly clear that my core needs A LOT of work. OUCH! I didn't feel like I did very good at this workout; I hope improvement eventually comes.
- Wed: Kenpo X. Like Yoga, I have already done Kenpo many times in the program. It is becoming my favorite workout. I love the cardio aspect (providing you really put effort into it). It would be easy to dog this workout and just go through motions. If I did that, it would be useless. Really giving it your all = great workout.
-Thurs: Stretch X. Stretch X is simply one hour of stretching; every single muscle in the body. It was a nice break and I really enjoyed the relaxation. On Sundays, we can choose to rest or do Stretch. I've done the resting, but I should do more of this stretching. It definitely would improve flexibility.
-Fri: Core Synergistics. MUCH improvement. The core is still weak, but at least I was able to do most exercises this time. I put a better effort forward on this one.
-Sat: Yoga X. More and more improvements.
Overall this was a great "recovery week," although the "recovery" word is a bit of a misnomer. You still work hard, you just happen to give your muscles a break (thank goodness). I was also happy I was able to continue the workout program while truly being on the road. Sunday would be a flight to France. I brought all my gear with me with full intention to workout. Let's see what happened!
Week 5 (France) - 1st Attempt
Week 5 started Phase 2. This meant different muscle workouts (different focus and exercises on the lifting days). I'll hit them up individually again.
-Mon: Chest, Shoulders and Triceps and Ab Ripper X. I arrived in France on Monday morning. That worked out perfectly since I could start to workout as planned. After an afternoon nap due to jetlag, I hit the deck for this workout. I've never been strong in my upper body (years of soccer made my lower body the stronger section), so all this chest work (push-ups specifically) is a bear on me. But I plug through. This workout had me doing one-arm push-ups.. say what? Yeah, I did them on my knees. Also, Tony had us doing clapping push-ups (where you explode off the ground and clap between push-ups). Again, yeah right. I actually do most of the push-ups on my knees. I hope to eventually move up to feet. There are just so many push-up exercises that we do. It really zaps you.
- Tues: Plyometrics. Jenn joined me for Plyo on Tuesday. She did really well. I found mass improvements for myself and was very happy.
I did take measurements on Day 30 as required:
Body Fat %: 20.2
Weight: 250 lbs
Waist: 41
Right Thigh: 26
Left Thigh: 25.5
Right Arm: 15
Left Arm: 14.75
That was the end of the workouts this week. With all the long drives (10+ hours) and the family activities, I gave up and figured I'd start week 5 all over again when I got home... OK, when I got to Vancouver since I was going there directly.
Week 5 (Vancouver, BC)
I traveled from France on Monday and off to Vancouver on Tuesday. I skipped the Monday workout since I had done it last week. I started this week with the Tuesday workout. Again, I was in a hotel room. Thankfully it was a room similar to an Embassy Suites. Again, it made working out easy.
-Tues: Plyometrics. Yep, I repeated Plyo this week since I love the workout. You really get a feeling of accomplishment with Plyo. I love this workout.
-Wed: Back and Biceps and Ab Ripper X. I used the bands (with the door attachment) for back workouts and bands for the biceps. In all honesty, I just don't feel a good workout with the bands on the door for the back. I probably need to get farther from the the door with the bands, but there is a fear of those bands snapping in my face. Biceps get a good workout and they were hurting after this workout.
-Thurs: Took the day off.
-Fri: Legs and Back and Ab Ripper X. P90X has a lot of back work. My back better be strong after this program. I'm getting good at the wall squat and really pushed it on the legs.
-Sat: Kenpo. One of my favorites. Great cardio.
-Sun: Yoga. I did Yoga today since I had time. In case you are wondering, I do travel with my yoga block. Yeah, nerd! As usual, my yoga abilities, to me, keep improving.
Having some time to myself here, I felt like this was a great week of workouts. I pushed myself more and loved it. As far as the diet, this is where it's become tough (on the road). I try to keep with the diet program, but it's hard on the road. I could probably do better, but at least I'm eating foods that are better. I'm keeping the protein count up, and the carbs low at every meal.
Week 6 (Vancouver, BC and Dallas)
Week 6 was a repeat of the workouts of week 5. I was in Vancouver until Friday and Dallas for Sat and Sun. Again, I took my rest day during the week (due to work). I will bullet the highlights of the week:
- Home gym additions: Coming home from Vancouver and being here for a couple of weeks, I decided to add some toys to the home gym. I purchased 2 sets of dumbbells (just 20 and 15 lbs), a yoga mat (the one I had was too thick), a jump rope, and a head band. Man does all this stuff ADD to the workout. The dumbbells are the greatest addition. I really got a better workout on the biceps, shoulders and triceps. OUCH! The headband is god sent. HIGHLY recommended for everyone doing this, or any other program that makes you sweat. It keeps the facial waterfall from happening. I dig that tiny investment.
- Pain: I pushed it real hard at Plyo this week, so my legs were hurting for a day or two.
- Ab Ripper X: I love that I am doing better at this hell. It means my abs are getting stronger. While I am still a ways off all 349 moves, I'm up to over 275 moves.
- Changes: I'm starting to fit in clothes I hadn't been able to in a long time. WOO HOO!!!
Week 7 (Dallas)
Week 7 was the last repeat week of Phase 2 (weeks 5-8). Therefore, I will again just bullet my thoughts:
- Dumbbells: Using dumbbells for bicep, shoulder and tricep exercises made a HUGE difference. By the end of any workout where I used dumbbells, I was BEAT. I HIGHLY recommend dumbbells over bands .....if you can.
- Plyo: So this week I did Plyo at work. Pushed it a little harder with people watching. I think this may become a regular office workout day.. when I'm in town. Man, have I told you all how much I love Plyo?
- Ab Ripper X: At some point I asked myself why I was following the DVD for Ab Ripper workouts when I know the routine order by heart. I can actually do it on my own and actually do all 349 reps. I would probably do it slower than on the DVD (need some rests), but at least I would do all the moves. So I started doing that and now I feel a little pain in my abs on days between Ab Ripper. I love it.
- Yoga: The yoga mat I purchased made a nice difference. Now I'm not battling to stay balanced (which I had to with my prior more cushioned mat (the old one is now limited in use for Ab Ripper only). I still have trouble with crane (can't do at all) and half moon/twisted half moon (can't hold). I consider those all advanced moves so I'm OK with not being able to do them.
- Diet: Was home, so the diet was spot on. My morning protein shake is DA BOMB:
In blender:
8oz Water
2 scoops of Optimum Nutrition Carmel Toffee Fudge protein powder
4 ice cubes
1 cup seedless red grapes (I keep mine frozen)
1 table spoon whipped spun honey
Sprinkle of ground cinnamon
YUMMY!
Week 8 (Detroit, MI and Dallas)
Week 8 was the second "recovery week" in the P90X program. In addition, this week I had to travel to Detroit, MI for work. I was lodged at a Marriott Courtyard which is pretty much your standard hotel room. There was plenty of room to workout; no excuses people.
- Mon: Core Synergistic. I accidentally went out of rotation today and did Core instead of Yoga. No biggie. This workout kicked my butt!! But I think I like it.
- Tues: Yoga X. Typical for yoga, I tend to complain that I have to do it. I remind you it's 1 1/2 hours. But once in it and after it, I feel great and a sense of accomplishment.
- Wed: Kenpo X. More kicking ass.
-Thurs: Stretch X. Love the chill stretching.
-Fri: Core Synergistics. It's official, this is my new "I hate it.... but I love it" routine in P90X. I am completely gassed after this workout, but I know I gave it my all on it helped my body. LOVE IT!
-Sat: Yoga X. Really sweat good today. Must have done a good job. Still no crane and moon poses.
I wasn't so good on the diet in Detroit. I need to do better. I still don't believe I exceeded my calorie count for the day, but I know I can eat better. Man, it's tough on the road.
Measurements after Phase 2 (nice changes seen in pictures; not gutsy to put up; will after program)
Body Fat %: 16.8
Weight: 242.9 lbs
Chest: 45
Waist: 39.5
Right Thigh: 26.5
Left Thigh: 25.5
Right Arm: 15
Left Arm: 15
BRING IT!
Week 9 (Detroit, MI and Dallas)
The rotation for Phase 3 (weeks 9-13) goes as follows:
Week 9: Same as weeks 1-3
Week 10: Same as weeks 5-7
Week 11: Repeat week 9
Week 12: Repeat week 10
Week 13: Recovery week.
Here are the highlights and observations from Week 9:
- Again, I was back in Detroit for work. This time the Marriott Courtyard upgraded me to a suite, so I had 2 separate rooms (living room and bedroom). The living room was nice and large to allow for the workout. I was back in Dallas on Friday for the last 2 workouts.
- I purchased an RGB cord to connect my netbook to TV. What a great addition. Although the sound still comes through the netbook speakers, having the picture on a large TV is MUCH better than viewing on a small netbook.
- My favorite observation of the workouts was the dramatic (at least for me) increase in push-ups. Since this was the same workout as week 1, I was able to compare results (since I write everything down as recommended). During the Chest/Back day, we do 6 push-up exercises (regular, wide, military, decline, diamond and dive-bomber). On my very first week, I was able to do a total of 41 push-ups across all the different styles. This week (9), that number has increased to 107... NICE! I know I have more in me too, since I paced myself at the beginning. I loved the improvement.
- Doing back exercises with the bands SUCKS! I really don't feel like much is going on. I miss having the bar from home.
- Jenn did Kenpo with me on Sunday. She did awesome. I love working out with someone. It seems to push me a little more.
- In showing Jenn my pull-up bar, I did a couple unassisted pull-ups.. Woo Hoo. Until now I've used a chair assistance.
- Proper eating is darn tough on the road. Oh well, the numbers keep improving on the fitness front, so it's OK. They could probably be better if I was eating better. Not losing sleep over it though.
- Purchased a new belt this week (yep, the waist required it).
Do your best... and forget the rest!
Week 10 (Dallas)
Week 10 is in the books (same as weeks 5-7). Here are some observations:
- I probably said it before, but dumbbells give me such a better workout than the bands. Also, the pull-up bar is a ton better than the bands too.
- Nutrition is so much better and easier when at home. I quickly get back into my routine meals. So much better.
- Did the Plyo workout at work with a co-worker. It's amazing that I seem to push just a little more when working out with someone else (even at Plyo). Plyo is still my favorite workout. After the workout I really feel that I got a seriously great cardio workout.
- As far as pull-ups, I've increased the amounts of pull-ups on the Legs/Back workout day from 48 (week 6) to 88 (week 10). Yes, I do them with the assistance of a chair, but it's still a workout. My back muscles were non-existent for a long time, and they take a while to develop.
- Probably the most rewarding, everyday, is that my clothes fit so much nicer. I can wear anything I own and not feel like it's showing my fat gut (which I think is mostly gone anyways). Every day I see myself, I can see the drastic improvements this workout has done. It's motivation to finish this 90 days for SURE.
BRING IT!
Week 11 (Dallas and Johannesburg, South Africa)
Week 11 is complete (same workouts as week 1-3 and 9). Here are some observations:
- The push-up total discussed in week 9 is now up to 136. I remind you that in week 1 I only accomplished 41. I love the improvement for sure.
- For the Shoulders and Arms workout I was finally able to use my dumbbells (seems like I was always out of town since I got the dumbbells so I was on bands). I've said it before, I love the dumbbells. I can't compare improvement because of the dumbbell usage, but I know in future rounds of P90X I will dig the use of the dumbbells. Such a nice burn using those. Had I been able to use them from the get-go, I'm sure I would have gotten bigger.
- On Friday I had to fly to Johannesburg, South Africa. That put a major kink in the timing of everything. I lost a whole day flying to Joburg. I arrived on Saturday in the late afternoon, and there was no way I was working out my legs and back upon arrival. So I pushed that into Sunday (completing it in my tiny hotel room); which has now caused me to be one day behind schedule (ending my weeks on Monday instead of Sunday). No big deal in my book.
- Back to the hotel room size. This is by far the smallest room I've had to workout in. It's doable, but requires me to move around the room to different areas depending on the exercise. Also, the room DOES NOT get cold. I sweat my butt off in the room; waterfalls running down my whole body.
Never make excuses. Press play!!
Week 12 (Johannesburg, South Africa)
Week 12 DONE! (same workouts as week 5-8 and 10). Here are some observations:
- I have come to realize that the Chest/Shoulders/Triceps routine is my least favorite. I can't figure out exactly why, but I think it is because when using bands, there are some really awkward moves that I just don't feel like I get a good workout. I think with dumbbells I may learn to like it better. I was only able to do that workout with dumbbells once, and I really don't remember how it was.
- I replaced Yoga this week with Kenpo. Yoga is by far the most performed session, and in the interest of time (co-workers waiting on me for dinner) and personal choice, I did Kenpo instead. I think at this point of the program, as long as I do one of the sessions, I'm good.
- With the size of the room and the thin floors, I decided to take my netbook down to the gym for Plyo. I enjoyed the hotel gym to myself and was able to really attack the exercises for the last time during this 90 days. Plyo will go down as my favorite workout. I do prefer to perform the workout in a more open space, like a gym, rather than a constricted apartment or hotel room.
- Having written everything down since the beginning (weight and reps), I basically try to increase my previous counts by one for the same exercise. If I increase more, then bonus. I will continue to do that as I begin future rounds of the program.
- Since I had such an active weekend (sightseeing-wise) and some work functions in the evenings, I couldn't workout on Friday and Saturday. So, I did my first DOUBLE session on Sunday. Kenpo (instead of Yoga talked about above) in the am before heading out, and Legs/Back in the evening before dinner. Yeah, 2 workouts a day is ROUGH, but quite fulfilling.
- Week 12 ends the weights; and the specific muscle workouts. Next week is the recovery week which focuses only on core, some cardio and stretching.
Round 1 is almost over.
BRING IT!
Week 13 (Johannesburg and Dallas)
Week 13 (the final week) is in the books (Recovery week). Here are some observations:
- Core Synergistics is a TOUGH workout. I think because I was only required to do this workout 6 total times during the program, my body did not get used to it and was shocked every time I did it. I could definitely use improvement in that workout.
- My room in Johannesburg was too small for the Core workout. I accomplished it, but had to do some of the rolling exercises on the bed. Don't know if that was really effective.
- I definitely could have eaten better in South Africa. At the end of the day, I think I kept under my calorie requirements, but the "type" of food was not the best. Oh well, that's the difficulty of traveling on P90X.
- I did miss the Stretch workout this week. I'm OK with missing it since it's not a big calorie burner. I had a 27+ hour journey back home which caused the skip. Don't hang it over my head please.
Well, that's it for round 1 of P90X. Coming up are my overall results (yes, with pictures) and opinions.
Results
The final results:
Measurements
Week 9 (Detroit, MI and Dallas)
The rotation for Phase 3 (weeks 9-13) goes as follows:
Week 9: Same as weeks 1-3
Week 10: Same as weeks 5-7
Week 11: Repeat week 9
Week 12: Repeat week 10
Week 13: Recovery week.
Here are the highlights and observations from Week 9:
- Again, I was back in Detroit for work. This time the Marriott Courtyard upgraded me to a suite, so I had 2 separate rooms (living room and bedroom). The living room was nice and large to allow for the workout. I was back in Dallas on Friday for the last 2 workouts.
- I purchased an RGB cord to connect my netbook to TV. What a great addition. Although the sound still comes through the netbook speakers, having the picture on a large TV is MUCH better than viewing on a small netbook.
- My favorite observation of the workouts was the dramatic (at least for me) increase in push-ups. Since this was the same workout as week 1, I was able to compare results (since I write everything down as recommended). During the Chest/Back day, we do 6 push-up exercises (regular, wide, military, decline, diamond and dive-bomber). On my very first week, I was able to do a total of 41 push-ups across all the different styles. This week (9), that number has increased to 107... NICE! I know I have more in me too, since I paced myself at the beginning. I loved the improvement.
- Doing back exercises with the bands SUCKS! I really don't feel like much is going on. I miss having the bar from home.
- Jenn did Kenpo with me on Sunday. She did awesome. I love working out with someone. It seems to push me a little more.
- In showing Jenn my pull-up bar, I did a couple unassisted pull-ups.. Woo Hoo. Until now I've used a chair assistance.
- Proper eating is darn tough on the road. Oh well, the numbers keep improving on the fitness front, so it's OK. They could probably be better if I was eating better. Not losing sleep over it though.
- Purchased a new belt this week (yep, the waist required it).
Do your best... and forget the rest!
Week 10 (Dallas)
Week 10 is in the books (same as weeks 5-7). Here are some observations:
- I probably said it before, but dumbbells give me such a better workout than the bands. Also, the pull-up bar is a ton better than the bands too.
- Nutrition is so much better and easier when at home. I quickly get back into my routine meals. So much better.
- Did the Plyo workout at work with a co-worker. It's amazing that I seem to push just a little more when working out with someone else (even at Plyo). Plyo is still my favorite workout. After the workout I really feel that I got a seriously great cardio workout.
- As far as pull-ups, I've increased the amounts of pull-ups on the Legs/Back workout day from 48 (week 6) to 88 (week 10). Yes, I do them with the assistance of a chair, but it's still a workout. My back muscles were non-existent for a long time, and they take a while to develop.
- Probably the most rewarding, everyday, is that my clothes fit so much nicer. I can wear anything I own and not feel like it's showing my fat gut (which I think is mostly gone anyways). Every day I see myself, I can see the drastic improvements this workout has done. It's motivation to finish this 90 days for SURE.
BRING IT!
Week 11 (Dallas and Johannesburg, South Africa)
Week 11 is complete (same workouts as week 1-3 and 9). Here are some observations:
- The push-up total discussed in week 9 is now up to 136. I remind you that in week 1 I only accomplished 41. I love the improvement for sure.
- For the Shoulders and Arms workout I was finally able to use my dumbbells (seems like I was always out of town since I got the dumbbells so I was on bands). I've said it before, I love the dumbbells. I can't compare improvement because of the dumbbell usage, but I know in future rounds of P90X I will dig the use of the dumbbells. Such a nice burn using those. Had I been able to use them from the get-go, I'm sure I would have gotten bigger.
- On Friday I had to fly to Johannesburg, South Africa. That put a major kink in the timing of everything. I lost a whole day flying to Joburg. I arrived on Saturday in the late afternoon, and there was no way I was working out my legs and back upon arrival. So I pushed that into Sunday (completing it in my tiny hotel room); which has now caused me to be one day behind schedule (ending my weeks on Monday instead of Sunday). No big deal in my book.
- Back to the hotel room size. This is by far the smallest room I've had to workout in. It's doable, but requires me to move around the room to different areas depending on the exercise. Also, the room DOES NOT get cold. I sweat my butt off in the room; waterfalls running down my whole body.
Never make excuses. Press play!!
Week 12 (Johannesburg, South Africa)
Week 12 DONE! (same workouts as week 5-8 and 10). Here are some observations:
- I have come to realize that the Chest/Shoulders/Triceps routine is my least favorite. I can't figure out exactly why, but I think it is because when using bands, there are some really awkward moves that I just don't feel like I get a good workout. I think with dumbbells I may learn to like it better. I was only able to do that workout with dumbbells once, and I really don't remember how it was.
- I replaced Yoga this week with Kenpo. Yoga is by far the most performed session, and in the interest of time (co-workers waiting on me for dinner) and personal choice, I did Kenpo instead. I think at this point of the program, as long as I do one of the sessions, I'm good.
- With the size of the room and the thin floors, I decided to take my netbook down to the gym for Plyo. I enjoyed the hotel gym to myself and was able to really attack the exercises for the last time during this 90 days. Plyo will go down as my favorite workout. I do prefer to perform the workout in a more open space, like a gym, rather than a constricted apartment or hotel room.
- Having written everything down since the beginning (weight and reps), I basically try to increase my previous counts by one for the same exercise. If I increase more, then bonus. I will continue to do that as I begin future rounds of the program.
- Since I had such an active weekend (sightseeing-wise) and some work functions in the evenings, I couldn't workout on Friday and Saturday. So, I did my first DOUBLE session on Sunday. Kenpo (instead of Yoga talked about above) in the am before heading out, and Legs/Back in the evening before dinner. Yeah, 2 workouts a day is ROUGH, but quite fulfilling.
- Week 12 ends the weights; and the specific muscle workouts. Next week is the recovery week which focuses only on core, some cardio and stretching.
Round 1 is almost over.
BRING IT!
Week 13 (Johannesburg and Dallas)
Week 13 (the final week) is in the books (Recovery week). Here are some observations:
- Core Synergistics is a TOUGH workout. I think because I was only required to do this workout 6 total times during the program, my body did not get used to it and was shocked every time I did it. I could definitely use improvement in that workout.
- My room in Johannesburg was too small for the Core workout. I accomplished it, but had to do some of the rolling exercises on the bed. Don't know if that was really effective.
- I definitely could have eaten better in South Africa. At the end of the day, I think I kept under my calorie requirements, but the "type" of food was not the best. Oh well, that's the difficulty of traveling on P90X.
- I did miss the Stretch workout this week. I'm OK with missing it since it's not a big calorie burner. I had a 27+ hour journey back home which caused the skip. Don't hang it over my head please.
Well, that's it for round 1 of P90X. Coming up are my overall results (yes, with pictures) and opinions.
Results
The final results:
Measurements
Body Fat %: 24.4 (Day 1) -> 14.8 (Day 90)
Weight: 258.9 -> 236.3
Waist: 42.25 -> 39
Right Thigh: 26 -> 26
Left Thigh: 24.25 -> 25.25
Right Arm: 14.75 -> 15
Left Arm: 14.5 -> 14.75
Before/After Pictures
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| Day1 |
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| Day 90 |
