How Insanity Made Me a Better Runner!

One of the questions I'm most often asked is, "How do you incorporate your Beachbody programs into your running schedule?"

My answer is based on your fitness goals.  Are you training for a marathon or are you more interested in shorter training runs?  Are you running to become fit or are you trying to become a more fit runner? 

When I'm training for a marathon, my focus is running four to five days a week with one or days focused solely on cross-training.  When my goal is geared more toward fitness, I flip this schedule.  I have six days of cross-training fitness with one or two days a week devoted to shorter runs to maintain my base of running.

In simplest terms, a weekly schedule would look like this.

This schedule works for me.  It allows me to focus on my main objective (i.e. a marathon) without completely losing the fitness I've developed from Insanity, The Asylum or any other Beachbody program.

I believe that it is so important to always incorporate some level of cross-training into your weekly schedule for injury prevention, to develop strength and a strong core and to keep your routine fresh.

Since I have really made this a part of my overall fitness, whether the majority of my time is spent running or cross-training, I have become a much more efficient athlete.  In May of 2010, I ran a lot and spent time in a gym, but I wasn't efficiently working the way my body needed to be.

By incorporating Beachbody programs into my routine, I've learned how to work more efficiently and eat more effectively.  The programs allowed me to lose 4 percent body fat and by becoming leaner, I've become a better runner.  Last year, I took 16 minutes off of my previous marathon time and qualified for the Boston Marathon.

If I can do this. Anyone can! Trust me!

I'm Committed

Over the past month, I embarked on this crazy journey into The Asylum.  I committed myself physically, mentally and emotionally.  I pushed my body to limits I never thought I could reach.  I willed myself to finish when the end seemed unreachable.  I stepped outside of a physical comfort zone and stripped many layers of emotional stress I'd been dealing with for months.  For 30 days, I was IN IT!  This is how I did it.

Commit Me to the Asylum!

“He who is not everyday conquering some fear has not learned the secret of life.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

 
Finally!  I've been talking about this for weeks!  It's finally here!  My next big workout!  Insanity: The Asylum will arrive at my doorstep any day. 

It's hard to believe, but it's been almost one year since I began my journey with Insanity.  I find it simply incredible that one little home dvd program would have had this type of profound impact on my life!  It began with a physical transformation that has developed into a most empowering psychological shift for me in all my adult years.

Amazing.  An at-home exercise dvd!  I can't say Buns of Steel did much more for me than acquire an incredibly colorful selection of spandex for my workout clothing selection.  But Insanity?  It changed my body.  It changed my confidence.  It changed my outlook on life.  It changed me and it's changing my future.

Take a look?  Crazy?  Insane?  Intense?  All of it! 


It's so much more than that physical transformation.  A year ago I was thinking how will I ever be able to get through Insanity?  What if I can't do it?  What if it's too intense?

Today as I anticipate starting this next phase, I'm thinking, who will I become?  How I can empower others?  How will I reward myself when I finish?  How I can dig a little deeper?

It's about getting over your fears and just being in it!  What more can you give?  Imagine what you'll discover about yourself when you just let go!

My Confession

A confession.  I don't always practice what I preach. 

I admit it.  Sometimes it's really hard for me to have the positive self image I teach you to embody.  It's something I have battled since I've been a chubby little girl.  And for the past couple  of weeks, I have been struggling. 

I try not to get caught up in the numbers game and I rarely stray from my workouts.  Self discipline has never been my issue.  Self image on the other hand is often a difficult pill for me to swallow. 

I admit that I stare relentlessly at times at myself in the mirror before I enter the shower, sucking in that, tucking under this.  It's a practice I'm not proud of, but I would not be honest if I said I never struggled.  I do.  Often.

And right now, I'm in one of those 'struggles'.  With the recent ice storm that hit our area and not being able to run for over a week, I feel at times like I am living outside of the body I know and have slowly learned to grow and love.  A different Rhonda has been invading my space lately and I don't like her.at.all.

I have been thankfully able to do my Insanity workouts at home, but this round is much different than when I first did it last summer.  Then, I took weekly updated pictures and I was so proud of my progress.  This time I'm not seeing or feeling those changes.   Perhaps it's because I'm not working hard enough or not as inspired or maybe I've just plateaued.  Whatever the reason, I'm ready for a change.  I will always love this workout, but it's time to put it on the shelf and try something new for a while.

I won't quit.  I'm not a quitter.  I'll finish the next 18 days and then I'll completely start something new, something fresh.  Something different to shock by body back to where I'll be excited take those weekly pictures again.  Perhaps I just might take that P90X plunge afterall and make it a perfect complement to my running.

So that's how I get through these slumps.  I make a plan, I allow myself a little self-pity (it feels good) and then I'll get back to where I need to be.  A slump is NEVER a time to give up on yourself and that is hardly in my plan.  I just need a little mental restructuring.  The physical will come.

Until then, here's my favorite shot taken last summer when my little Jackson kept sneaking in the pictures without my knowledge.  It makes me laugh and gives me inspiration to move forward and progress.  I want to look this again.  He's my inspiration and this is my accountability.

Isn't it Time?

I had an assignment this week to post a video about my success with Beachbody.  Not only have I had great results, but I have truly been able to inspire so many people and that to me is how I define success.  I hope this motivates you!  Isn't it TIME for YOU?

No More Excuses in 2011 - Commit.

In order to be an inspiration, one must inspire.  In order to have others follow, one must lead.

As I encourage you all to be deciding on your goals for 2011, I feel it is only appropriate that I not only share my plans for the new year, but that I commit those plant to paper as well.  I hope that my marathon story proved the power of setting goals.  Through hard work, dedication and positive beliefs, it is almost unimaginable what you'll be able to achieve in the next twelve months!

My 2011 Fitness goals

Running:
Coaching for Luke's Locker winter / spring Quick Beat program:  This program lasts 20 weeks and over the course I'll be working on strength and speed.  As a participant last year, I was able to improve my running form and technique, which ultimately lead me to become faster.  I'm giving back this year by helping others do the same by being a coach for the program.  Notable races:  Several 5ks throughout the program.

Early Marathon training:  In May, I will start to ramp up my mileage and begin training for my fifth marathon.  I have selected Chicago as my destination marathon.  It's been on my list for several years and it just works out perfectly this year.  Race date:  Early October

Cross Training:

Insanity:  I started my third round this week.  I will continue to push play throughout January and February until the VERY highly anticipated The Asylum is set to be released.  This program makes Insanity look like a light stroll through the park.  I'm so scared of it...and I can't wait!

P90X One on One:  I love this new program.  I get a brand new DVD each month.  It focuses on muscle confusion to keep the workouts fresh and the plateaus non-existent. It will be excellent crossing training during the brutally hot summer marathon training.

That's it!  It just took a little thought and some planning, and now I have my entire year's plan set.  Now that it's set to paper, I have no excuse NOT to commit.  Switching up the routines and adding variety are keys to keeping me motivated and staying healthy.

Have you decided?  Are you ready to commit that decision to paper?

Transforming My Mind, Body and Spirit

In May, I stepped outside of my running comfort zone and left the gym.  I started Insanity.  I was so scared to start.  I had no idea what was in store for me.

I continue to run and train for a marathon, but I have now completed two rounds of Insanity.

Last month, I incorporated Shakeology into my daily regime.  I have the most delicious and healthy meal of the day for breakfast.

I am at my lowest weight since I was a teenager.

This is how Beachbody has transformed my mind, my body and my spirit?  It can change your life too and I would LOVE to help you get there.

Bring it!

A couple weeks ago I debated a decision.  Should I go with my gut or with my heart?  Almost all of you suggested the latter and I'm so glad I followed your advice.

Instead of running my favorite 20K race, I opted to attend a day long seminar with Mr. P90X, Tony Horton.  Who's Tony Horton you ask?  Turn on any channel that shows infomercials and you'll find out quickly.  He's the face behind the workout phenomenon, P90X.  

P90X and Insanity are just two of several home DVD workout programs, made by Beachbody that are literally transforming so many people's lives across our country.  It was extremely inspiring to be in a room full of motivation mamas and dads, who share my same passions.


The day started with an exhilarating workout with Tony.  I snatched a front row spot.  How often will I get that opportunity?  That's me in the green top!

After the workout, and a fresh change of clothes, we had the opportunity to learn about the success of Beachbody.  I was sitting next to a lady who was smokin' hot.  She turned to me and said 'hello' and introduced herself.

A bit later, during the Success Stories segment, a picture of a unhappy, overweight mother, with familiar looking eyes appeared on the big screen.  I turned to look to the hot woman next to me and sure enough, that picture was her just over a year ago.  A mother who had given up on herself had a friend that motivated her to get her life back. Now, she not only looks incredible, but her spirit was contagious.

I sat there listening to success after success and felt such a tremendous amount of gratitude not only for my health but for my willingness and desire to help other people. Most of the people behind the success stories had lost significant amounts of weight or several inches off their bodies, but they all had gained tremendous amounts of joy in their lives. 

I was meant to be in that room and it further solidified
my unrelenting passion to lead people to a healthier lifestyle.

Some key things that Tony Horton said made a significant impact on me.  I jotted down a few of his phrases that resonated deeply with me.

"Doing nothing does nothing" - If you want to make a change in your life, you have to do something about it.  It starts with making a decision to be healthier.

"Abs are made in the kitchen" - Getting that perfect six pack doesn't come from exercise alone.  We have got to start eating better and being more accountable for what we put into our bodies.

"Rock What You Got" - He referred to a new book by Katherine Schwarzenegger.  You can only work with the body you have so make it the best for you and don't worry what you'll never have.

"Stop caring about what people think of you!" - This is the hardest one for me, but I am getting better.  After all, why should I worry about the opinions of the naysayers when my intentions are only meant to them?

We finished the day with an hour of the hardest yoga I've ever done and my body is unforgiving today. My decision was worth every ounce of pain I'm feeling.  I know what Insanity and Beachbody have done for me and I can't wait to start leading others to begin a journey to a new, happier and healthier life.

Inspiring and motivating others makes me happy. If I can lead you to a healthier life, let's not make any more excuses or waste any more time. Let me know how I can help you get started.

 That's me...with Tony Horton!  Bring It!

Random Thoughts

I'm sitting at my computer and my brain cannot focus on any tasks. I'm all over the place, looking at completely random things, Facebook, Twitter, blogs, the Spanish translation of Chico, thanks to Sherri at Old Tweener.

I could go to bed, but that just means I have to think about my hill training in the morning.  I'm not ready to wrap my brain around that one yet.  I have six hill repeats and a six-mile run.  I wonder if Crazy Legs will join me tomorrow?


I hate when the Cowboys lose, especially the season opener. I feel like I've been punched in the gut as I've been sulking all day. I'm such a man when it comes to football.  I'm the one pouting over a loss and Cedric is up ironing clothes and making dinner.  And by the way, you won't be invited to our house for dinner anytime soon, Alex Barron!  Tony Romo, Miles Austin, Bradie James, DeMarcus Ware....you're welcome ANY-TIME...so cawl me!


On another completely random note, I'm in my second month of Insanity again!   Still hard, still so hard.   I really tried to take the day off yesterday.  I really did.  Before I knew it I was doing power jumps and push up jacks.  I can't get enough this Insane-ness!


By the way, this is the salad I have prepared for my lunch for tomorrow.  Out of curiosity, I looked up the nutritional content of the Southwest Crispy Chicken Salad from Jack in the Box - OVER 800 calories!  Taking five minutes to prepare you own will save you over 500 calories and about 40 grams of fat!

It is STILL so hot and I realized I spent over ten hours outdoors on Saturday from running my 13-miler with my running group to attending Jackson's soccer game followed by Keelan's football game.  As much as I hated being in the heat nearly all day, it was pretty much a randomly perfect day!

                                       

I can't stand how cute he is in his uniform!

 This completely random post brought to you by:

Who Knew?

I'm faced with a decision tonight that is difficult.   My life has changed so much in the past four months since I began my Insanity journey.  Who knew a different type of workout would so dramatically change my life?

I have always known that my main purpose in life is be a motivator to others.  Whatever platform I'm given or presented with in life, I know it will be the avenue that leads me to be a positive role model to inspire others to start their own journey to a healthier lifestyle.

Running is and always has been my love.  The weather is finally starting to cool down a bit and Saturday morning's training run was nothing shy of a spiritual renewal for me.  It's the most gratifying and pleasurable time I have with nature.  It gives me peace, brings some clarity to my thoughts and solidifies my passion for being healthy.

Four months ago, I was introduced to Insanity for some reason.  I was skeptical and resistant, but curious.  I stepped out of my comfort zone and gave it a try.  That comfort zone allowed myself to drink 600 calories worth of 'crap' in my coffee every morning and gave me permission to be average.

Now, I'm on my second round of Insanity, I have control of my diet, I've lost 10 pounds, I've dropped a size in my pants, I've taken two inches off my waist and I've become a faster runner.  Who knew what a home workout DVD would do to change my life?

On a whim, I pitched my idea to our local Fox station to do a consumer report about Insanity.  Who knew they would take me up on the idea? Now that television segment about Insanity is posted everywhere online, including the blog of Beachbody CEO, Carl Daikeler.  Who knew?

Tonight I'm faced with a decision.  I just found out Tony Horton of P90X / Beachbody fame will be in Dallas for a day long seminar on September 18th.  That is the same day a 20K race that I love to run in Dallas.  Sometimes the hardest decisions are what lead us to our true purpose in life.  I want to run that race, but my heart is telling me to attend the seminar.

What do you do when faced with a difficult decision? Do you go with your heart?  Do you take a leap of faith?  Do you play it safe?  I think I know what I need to do.  I don't even think I need to sleep on this one.

It's a DEAL!

When it comes to working out, I do not settle for mediocrity.  I like to run hard, burn lots of calories and sweat profusely.  It makes me feel alive and it makes an average day transpire into a fulfilling and gratifying one.

Four months ago, I began a new workout.  Thanks to the suggestion of my fabulous brother, I started the Insanity
60-Day Challenge.  I had heard of P90X, but I knew nothing about Insanity.  He thought it might be a good fit for me and an excellent complement to the running and Bikram yoga I had been doing.  He couldn't have been more right.

When I started Insanity in May, I expected it to be hard, but I didn't expect that I would nearly bring me to tears at the end of every workout.  With steadfast determination to finish the 60 day challenge, I was persistent and regimented.  I didn't miss a single workout, I logged every single thing I ate and I stayed on top of my running schedule.

I've done other challenges, but my results have always been minimal, mediocre at best.  Enter INSANITY.   In just 60 days, my body fat went down 4 percent.  I lost 9 lbs and lost a size in my pants.  It's no joke!  I did the work, I was consistent, I ate right. 

Perhaps the most exciting part of the experience was that I was fortunate to be a part of consumer report on our local news station in Dallas.  I've been dying to share this, but I had to be patient until it aired.  I could really use a 60-day challenge in patience as well. 

Who knew one the many benefits would be five minutes of local fame!



The one thing I am hoping for is that this video will inspire and motivate others.  You see, I don't have a lot of time.  I work full time and I have two kids.  HOWEVER, I make my health a top priority.  It means getting up earlier than I want, eating right when I want to be wrong and being supported unconditionally by my husband.  It all translates to a better overall well-being of my whole family.

This workout is NOT for everyone.  But there is SOMETHING for everyone.  What would it take for you to start your own challenge?

A Rut

I feel like I'm in limbo right now. I finished my first round of Insanity and I'm not really sure where to go from here. I am training for a marathon, but as a coach, my focus of training has shifted. It's not about me this year, it's more about helping others achieve their goals.

I've decided to keep doing Insanity and spread out the schedule over the course of 90 days rather than 60, allowing more time for running and more rest in between. With that decision, I flipped to the front of my DVDs this morning and put in a Month One Plyometric Cardio Circuit. I started with a huge ego, thinking this would be a piece of cake after going through an entire round including the daunting Month Two videos. I came out crying real tears, gasping and feeling extremely humbled.

I certainly couldn't explain the feeble attempt to complete the six circuits or what seemed like a lack of fitness on my part. I felt dejected and focused only on getting through it. How could this be? What has happened in the two weeks since I felt like that rock star for completing my first round?

After a little research, I have since learned that this is a common phenomenon that happens to many Insaniacs. I guess maybe I was thinking my ego would carry me through to the end and I thought it would be so easy that I wouldn't have to put forth any effort.

Experiencing difficulty today was probably just what I needed. I needed to get back to the basics and start fresh and most importantly, I had to realize that I still have a lot of work to do. Why would it be worth doing if there was not a challenge?

Whether we are experiencing a rut in our fitness regimen or in our lives, persistence and fighting through the tough times are what defines our character during the good times. Pack your egos and send them far away! This is just a small valley that I need to work my way out of, but I know that if I believe in myself and if I do not give up, I'll reach that peak again. It's a just a matter of how I choose to get there. I choose to push hard to the top.

CANNONBALL!

They say that one woman's failure is another woman's success.  Okay, maybe the quote is more about trash and treasures, but you get the point.

We all have different benchmarks for success when it comes to our personal goals.  I tend to be very goal-driven when it comes to my personal fitness.  Before I accomplish a goal, I'm already planning my next achievement.  It's the way I work and what works for me. 

Success is very objective.  My son Keelan completed his first round of Insanity right along with me.  He also completed his last round of Insanity.  To him, being able to say he did it is his definition of success.  That chapter of his life is closed.  The same can be said about running a marathon.  It's one of those bucket list things for many people.  For some it's "did that, won't ever do it again", and for others it's the beginning of a new passion.

My son Jackson has a huge fear of water in his face.  He freaks out walking in the rain and having his hair washed.  He loves to swim, as long as his face gets no where near the water, but made huge strides last week on our vacation.  Jumping off the boat dock into three inches of water shouting "CANNONBALL" was progress for him.

How do you define success in your personal fitness goals?  Are you driven by goals and day to day progress or do you feel successful if you skip dessert?  Are you competitive or complacent?  A self-motivator or do you need motivation?  What is your motivation?  What is your benchmark for success?

These are all really important things to consider when you're ready to make a change in your life.  Not everyone is cut out to do P90X or Insanity or run a 5K.  Once you understand what drives you and what success means, it's easier to embark on a new journey to a healthier lifestyle. 

Perhaps you're ready to cross that threshold of complacency and set a goal for success. Maybe you just need someone to hold you accountable.  Whatever it is that causes you to shout "CANNONBALL", the time is now to take the plunge!

Dear Shaun T...

Mama Kat's assignment this week.



Write a list of 10 things that are sure to put a smile on your face when you are not happy.


Dear Shaun T,

Today is officially my last day of the Insanity 63-Day Challenge.  The weeks have swiftly passed as my body has slowly transformed.  I was hopeful for change, yet expected little.  I stayed cautiously optimistic, but remained realistic about the results I would actually have.

Who knew that I would become the testimony that motivated me to start?  What was it that made the difference?  How was I able to have the success I did? 

Being "in it" did not make me happy.  I often cursed the TV when you would make me do those dreaded Power Jumps for one full minute.  You made me so furious when you would take a break but would expect me to keep digging deep.  I was not amused by your "it's not a coffee break" comment when I was allowed a mere 30-second recovery. 

You did not make me happy Shaun T when you made me do all those crazy push-ups and the running floor drills, or diamond jumps.  I wanted to punch you in the face sometimes, but alas...I had no more energy.  In fact, you made me cry a couple times after completing the last interval of Max Interval Circuit.  You completely broke me.  Sometimes I wish I could have dunked your head in my pool of sweat and tears.

But then I would finish.  I had all this energy.  I started to realize that you weren't trying to make me unhappy, you were making me better.  Like Kanye says..."N- n- now th- that don't kill me, can only make me stronger!"

For all that pain I endured for holding a plie squat for five minutes, the anger I felt every time you stared right into my eyes and said, "You Can Do It", and the dread I experienced when I popped in that DVD, I am so grateful for even more.

Today I'm smiling not because I completed the challenge, but because you made want to complete another round.  I realize without you pushing me and making me so incredibly unhappy sometimes, I wouldn't be able to experience:

• the confidence to pursue my dream to motivate others
• the satisfaction of setting a goal and achieving it...successfully
• the joy of fitting into everything in my closet
• the pleasure of running again in a sports bra sans the **rollage
• the passion for my own health and well-being
• the love for really healthy food
• the tenacity to push myself a little more each day
• the commitment to journal every meal, snack and handful I've eaten in the past two months
• the dedication to lead by example
• the willingness to become humbled

Sincerely,
Motivation Mama

p.s.  I'll be sending my before and after pics soon!

Four Days to My Sanity!

Today I completed Day 59 of the Insanity 63 Day challenge. Oh please, stop the applause, really. I don't deserve it...yet.

I started this workout on May 1st and though I had no doubt in my mind that I would finish, I really didn't think it would still be this hard. My expectations were that the first couple weeks would be tough, but then I'd get used to it, thus becoming a physical goddess, a SheRhonda with rock hard abs if you will.

Unless my Superwoman powers take over in the next four days, I haven't quite earned SheRhonda status, BUT I have had more successes than I really expected.

I've lost almost ten pounds. My BF has gone down about 3- 4 percent, although I don't really know for sure since I still have no idea how to accurately measure with the old school caliper.

I can wear a pair of pants that have quietly hung in my closet for two years. They felt betrayed by me and I can happily say, I've given them the attention they deserve.

I can do more push ups than I ever would have dreamed of doing. Not the girly kind either. The mean, Rocky "Yo Adrian" type push ups.

I've done crazy, silly-looking football drills, that have caused a stir of laughter from my dear friends. (You know who you are). Laugh if you must, but I feel stronger, quicker and sharper.

My workout clothing drawer is filled with a *plethora* of sports bras and shorts that I now feel comfortable running outdoors in without having to worry about the **rollage associated with the look. And I simply don't care. I've had a child. Any rollage is earned in my opinion!

My goal was not just to improve the physical me. My main objective was to be the example for so many other people who may not think they can do this. I wanted to prove that despite how busy our lives are, our health is vital and taking care of ourselves first is essential.

My hope is that I have inspired many people. Perhaps Insanity is not your thing, but getting healthy starts today. It takes a goal, motivation and the willingness to endure something beyond your comfort zone and the belief in yourself that you can thrive once you get past that threshold!

Thanks to three lovely ladies, a.k.a. The Nerd Mafia for this excellent Word Up, YO idea! I love it!


**rollage: n. the excess skin that hangs over your shorts, loose skin remnants.

Dig Deeper

When I speak about DIGGING DEEPER during an INSANITY workout, this is what I'm talking about.



By now you should either be thinking I'm completely Insane or wondering why I looked so slow in that last round. 


How I Got There:
Digging Deeper, Bulldog Determination, Mental Toughness.  This is what gets me to the finish line.  This is how I've made it to Day 51 of 63.  Day by day, interval by interval.  It's so easy to make excuses.  But excuses do not get me to the finish line.

INTERVAL 1 - LAST SET



I'm not saying this is for everyone, but we've all been in situations we didn't want to be, whether physically, emotionally or socially.  Getting through that uncomfortable phase is what is going to make you a stronger person.
INTERVAL 2 - LAST SET



Finally, no matter what you endure, there is a point at which we can either break and quit or decide to push through.  Sometimes we need a little help along the way.   Thanks Shaun T!  What will it take for you to DIG DEEPER today?  Maybe you're ready for Insanity or maybe a change in your life.  If so, it's time to step outside that comfort zone!  What is stopping you?

Interval 3 - FINAL SET

Choices

I'm often asked how I have time for everything I do?  My answer?  Choices, priorities, time management!  I'm pretty good at the first two.  My time management skills could use a little help!

CHOICES:  Insanity and marathon training are taking a lot of my time, but I choose to get my workouts done early.  And when I say early, I don't mean, sunrise, morning dew, birds chirping early.  I'm talking dark, quiet, 'the crack' early.  This allows me the freedom to have my evenings free.  I used to spend the majority of my evenings watching television, but I've given a lot (most) of that up.  My choice is to do more productive things, thus making small sacrifices in order to create big successes for my family's future.

PRIORITIES:  Keeping the balance between family, work and "me time" can be tricky and they often interlap. I don't always do the right thing and often don't give as much time as I should to family. Supportive spouses and children are very important. I'm so fortunate in this regard.  But my son sent me a gentle reminder yesterday about spending too much time on the computer blogging and friending and reading when he needs me. That's an instant shot to the heart and a huge reminder that my family is always first. 

TIME MANAGEMENT:  24 Hours - Work outs - Family + Eating - Job - Sleep = My Typical Day. 
Like I said, I often struggle with this one.  Sleep, unfortunately falls to the way side.  It's something I try to work on, but I'm unfortunately a night owl living in an early riser's world.  The two do not gel...at...all.  Being somewhat organized, creating to-do list, staying on task and following a schedule.  Sounds like an excellent plan!  Now if only I could follow my own advice!


Putting it all together:  Each week, I've been taking an update picture, in hopes of documenting a successful Insanity transformation.  I started using the timer on my camera and found that my little guy was playing tricks on me, craving my attention.  So we've started a little game.  It's been a good way to mix the me time with family time.  

  

INSANITY UPDATE:

Today I finished my 7th week of INSANITY.  It's so crazy how quickly I've gone through this insane workout program.  I had hoped for changes to my body, but didn't honestly think I would have the success I've had.  If you're on the fence and thinking about really improving your life, this is the way to go.  You have to DIP DEEP and your goals will become achievable!

Overcoming Fear

Hi.  My name is Rhonda, and this is my first year coaching.  I DID IT!  It was that easy. 

Tonight was my orientation meeting for marathon training.  Up until tonight, I still had those initial self-doubts about whether I'd be a good coach.  The whole confidence issue I've struggled with for so long opened it's ugly doors again.  UGH!  I walked in timid and somewhat dreading the first day of training, and I left feeling so excited and so eager to get started.

We had to introduce ourselves and say a few words about our marathon history.  As I spoke, I saw these eager, novice eyes watching me and smiling back and it was at that moment, I KNEW that this is what I'm meant to do.  I'm so excited to share my knowledge and motivate others through my experience and hard work.   As the participants asked questions one by one, I envisioned molding them into successful marathon finishers! 

Marathon training is a journey and I can't wait to take my group on a fantastic trip traveling several miles through rough terrain and hot, humid temps.  A journey that will transcend all former experiences and will place a definitive check on many bucket lists.

Tonight I felt like I finally had the confidence to lead those that I would at one point rather follow and tonight I knew that my motivation is going to be the cause of many individual successes.  What I was apprehensive about this morning, I can't wait to begin tonight. 

Don't ever let fear keep you from following your passions.  Don't just dip your toes in the water.  If it's something you truly love, jump in feet first.  Your head with surface, I promise!

My mentor and dear friend Jo!  Thank you for encouraging me to pursue coaching!  I'm learning from the best!

INSANITY UPDATE:  I'm getting extremely anxious to begin Month 2 and I'm getting extremely antsy.  And quite honestly, the last two minutes of Core Cardio and Balance just blows.  I seriously feel flames in my legs.  I know now that I'm definitely going to become a Beachbody coach.  It just makes sense and after tonight, I think I'm going to make that jump rather quickly...feet first!

A Perfect Day

When it comes to a definition of a perfect day, I would suspect that a broad range of answers might come from a select panel of interviewees.  Some people might say a day on the couch watching movies all day is perfect, others might prefer a day at the beach.  A few might even suggest a day at work.

While Mondays are usually not a day to look forward to, a Holiday Monday is a day to relish.  Perhaps a really perfect day would have been sleeping in a bit, but running outside past 8:00 a.m. is already NOT a possibility in this Texas heat. 

My perfect day began around 6:45 with a run at about 8:00, a little too late, but it always feels good for my feet to hit the asphalt.  I'm in my recovery week so I took a nice pace, but couldn't help but want to sprint home to the AC.  On a normal day, I would split my workouts, but on a perfect day, a nap is always on the agenda to give my body some rest. 

Instead of drying off, I went straight into the Core Cardio & Balance Insanity DVD.  Nope, still not any easier on my third day.  I extinguished the torch on my quads, showered and prepared myself for a hard day of a whole lot of NOTHING!  Nothing but eating good, healthy food, napping and enjoying my family.  A mini celebration of making it through the first month of Insanity!  Congrats to me.

Here are my first month pictures and some numbers.  Not a huge change of difference in numbers, but I feel completely awesome and strong.  I'm not sure how to define awesome as a number!  I'm hoping for more dramatic physical changes in Month 2!  I think the biggest change is in my smile!  Ironic?  Not so much!

As this perfect day comes to a close, I can't help but share this video I made last November from my marathon experience in DC.  Thank you Veterans for giving us this day to spend it enjoying family, fun and some rest. Thank you for what you do so that we can do what we do!

Mental Preparation

Have you ever watched someone do something and it seems so easy when you're lying on the couch?  Almost effortless.  You get that cockiness and the "how hard can that be?" attitude.

With the anticipation of Month 2 eating away at my patience, I decided to have a little sneak peak of the Max Interval Circuit Insanity DVD.  After some encouragement from reader Lisa, it looks disgusting, her comment couldn't have described Month 2 any better. With that kind of evaluation, I just had to take a look.

I knew it was going to be a little longer and perhaps the intensity would pick up a little more.  After all, I mean, could it really get any harder?  The answer is just not "yes".  It's a big, fat, holy crap "HELL YEAH IT CAN!"  How hard can it REALLY be?  A resounding, "EXTREMELY!"

My heart rate elevated just watching it.  Although I think it was more from the adrenaline rush or 'ohmygod' factor rather than the watching the actual heart-pounding workout.  It also didn't help when the most cut guy in the whole video kept stopping and had this perpetual, "I'm going to die" look on his face the entire 60 minutes.

Okay, the difference?  I only got through the Max Interval Circuit - that was quite enough. I'll save the rest for my actual workout.

1. Longer - workouts increase from 40 minutes to 60 minutes.
2. Intensity - higher - it makes Month 1 look like I'm playing patticake.
3. Intervals - they go from about 6 sets to about 10 or 11, but I'm thinking it really won't even matter by number 8.

What I did like is that despite some not so great editing, is that the participants in the videos are dying.  It's not fake.  You have to do the work and it's NOT EASY! What scared me is when the last shot was fired and the white flag of surrender was raised, EVERYONE, including Shaun T was lying on the ground, beaten to a pulp, with the exception of some crazy break dancer who did a back spin after it was over nearly taking out the girl next to him.  (sorry, I digress...it was quite funny).

I love this girl from the Insanity video.  She reminds me a lot of myself.  She came in a little too confident, but put in the work and has had amazing results!  Looking forward to the next month of this insane workout that is so appropriately named, "INSANITY"!  I can't wait for even more results!



I'm staying strong. I'm staying motivated. Are you?