Choosing to take an ACTIVE role in my fitness. The tendency was to do nothing and start falling apart. You know 2nd Law of Thermodynamics. Time is now, and it is time to BRING IT!
How's your fitness going? It is going on 7 years since Tammy and I found
Beachbody. I am stronger in my late 40's then I was in my late 30's. Tammy and I started the year with a round of P90X3. It is a great starter and/or maintenance program in only 30-minutes a day. After a 1-week break we started a 60-day round of Insanity (we last did a complete 60-days back in April 2010). We are in week 2 and I can just say "Dig Deeper". Here is a little video from Tammy's Facebook page Triceps work. We are still eating a plant based diet and drinking Shakeology for our nutrition.
Resolve vs. Resolution
It's been many months since we all made New Year's resolutions. We make resolutions as a goal to be somewhere or someone different in the future. Resolve is the action that you take in the present to meet that resolution. Resolve is steps taken each day to make your goal a reality. May is here. Is it time for some "Mid Year" resolve?
When it is early in the morning or late in the day and you have no
time to work out, what do you do? How about resolving to put forth action and push play. When making healthy food
choices it will cost you extra time and money, but you will resolve
to eat healthy. When you have missed a workout or had a day of treats, this is when you tap into some of that resolve and set yourself right back on
track. Resolve, and then resolve some more, your future is worth it.
Tips To Having Resolve:
Take the step to connect with your FREE coach (Me). Yes, be accountable it can make the difference. See the Facebook connection to Tammy and I below.
Clean out the junk food - you know what foods I'm talking about. Even
baby steps are better than no steps at all.
Plan your nutrition - Tammy and I are always reminding each other that good food is our fuel. Use your Beachbody program guide. Like the step
of cleaning out the junk food you need a specific plan with you nutrition, you
need to eat consciously. A good tool to assist in getting started balancing proper foods and portions would be the
21-day fix and don't forget the benefits of Shakeology. Here ISpotlighting most of the 70 ingredients in Shakeology
Have a fitness plan - follow a Beachbody program 30, 60 or 90 days check
the days off the calendar. I am only successful when I have a plan laid out. Below is also a link for some free workout routines.
Start your workout whether it be a DVD, walking, or jogging, even if you
don't feel like it. Start out with the idea of doing just 10 minutes. The pet slogan
of, "just do it" works. If you "just do it" more likely than not, you will finish and feel great.
Many of you I think may be like me. I am not the type that makes resolutions
but someone that knows I can be a better me and need some
resolve to make that change. I encourage you to message me and we'll find you
some tools that can help you be a better you. You can't finish if you don't start. I look forward to
hearing from you.
I will end this post with a special shout-out to those that commit to bettering their health and nutrition. As Arthur, the star in the inspirational video below, says, "it is a simple but frightening message, that is, that you can do it. It's very easy to NOT do it, to say you can't. Then, you can very easily retreat back into inability, retreat back into fear, back into lack of control ..."
I know it is not easy, but you have a choice. It took this gentleman the discipline to continue even when he did not believe in himself. He continued to work hard and it was only after much failure that he even started to believe that it could happen. Never, Ever Give Up. Arthur's Inspirational Transformation!
Acai berry - (ah-sigh-ee) - What makes Acai such a special and unusual berry is that it not only has a high level of antioxidants but also has healthy fatty acids, protein and dietary fiber. Its unsaturated healthy fats have a fatty acid ratio similar to olive oil which is considered to be a contributing factor to the low incidence of heart disease in Mediterranean populations. Açaí pulp contains omega 6 and 9 fatty acids.
Acerola powder (fruit) -Acerola can be found throughout northeastern Brazil and is rich in Vitamin C and carotenoids, and one of the richest known natural sources of vitamin C.
Amaranth - Not only is Amaranth a great source of vitamins and amino acids, but it's also high in protein, fiber and helps to boost your immune system. Additionally, Amaranth has three times the calcium of milk.
Amylase. This is group of enzymes' function is to breakdown sugar and starch. Amylase digests carbohydrates units, eventually converting them into sugar. Amylase also works as an anti-inflammatory.
Apple pectin powder - Apple pectin is a water-soluble fiber, helpful in removing cholesterol out of the intestines and delaying glucose absorption.
Ashwagandha powder - An Adaptogen herb for the mind that promotes clarity. Betterments include: improving mental acuity, learning and memory while also alleviating anxiety and depression.
Astragalus powder root - This ingredient is always helpful for a family like ours with 4 small children because it is an adaptogen that strengthens the immune system increasing both energy levels and vitality. Used in China for 1000s of years, this powder helps prevent colds, upper respiratory infections and helps to lower blood sugar + blood pressure.
Bilberry powder (fruit) -An antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiseptic agent, this fruit has shown to improve vision and symptoms associated with diabetes.
Blueberry Powder - 1st off, it takes 10lbs of fresh blueberries to get 1lb of pure blueberry powder. A good source of vitamins and dietary fiber, blueberries are believed to help reduce eyestrain and improve night vision. Blueberries are also high in the phytochemical resveratrol, which has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Camu-Camu Powder (Myrciaria dubia) - A bush, native to the South American rainforest, which grows in the black water rivers of the Amazon. Its small, purplish red fruits are a rich source of antioxidants and powerful phytochemicals that support and enhance health. Camu-Camu fruits contain more vitamin C than any other plant in the world from 30 to 60 times more than an orange. They also contain amino acids including serine, valine, and leucine; and significant levels of beta carotene, calcium, iron, niacin, phosphorus, riboflavin, and thiamin. The phytochemicals in Camu-Camu are highly effective in curbing the effects of the herpes virus; in fact, on a list of plants with anti-herpetic compounds, Camu-Camu takes the highest honors as most potent. It is effective against depression, and has even been used to wean users off dangerous anti-depressive medications (under medical supervision, of course.) Alternative medical practitioners have also been using it to combat attention deficit disorder. Camu-Camu also provides immune system support, helps maintain good eyesight, reduces inflammation, supports collagen, tendons, and ligaments. Helps fend off viral infection, improves respiratory health and maintain clarity of mind during stress.
Chia Seed Meal - Coined as the Aztec running food, Chia seeds enhance stamina, endurance and help you stay hydrated. The seeds help you lose weight for 2 reasons. 1st, they are so filling that you will eat less. 2nd, they form into a gel and cleanse the old "junk" in your intestines. Lastly, they provide calcium & protein in your tissues & help regenerate body tissue. Known as the running food, it’s used as a high energy endurance food and has been recorded as far back as the ancient Aztecs. It has about 3-10 times the oil concentrations of most grains and one and a half to two times the protein concentrations of other grains. Rich in omega 3, omega 6, protein, fiber and essential trace minerals. (Mexico)
Chlorella - (spotlight on Chlorella) Containing the green photosynthetic pigments chlorophyll A and B, enabling it to photosynthesize (derive energy by converting sunlight and carbon dioxide into sugar molecules for food). Chlorella is also a complete protein, meaning that it contains all the essential amino acids a person needs to survive in the correct proportions for cellular use. Under certain growing conditions, Chlorella also yields oils high in polyunsaturated fats, which are the healthy variety of lipids (also known as ‘good fats’) and can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and lower blood cholesterol. Chlorella’s presence in the stomach and digestive tract can increase good bacteria in the intestine in order to help treat ulcers, colitis, Crohn’s disease, and diverticulosis.
Citrus bioflavonoids - Extracted from fruits, bioflavonoids are widely used in Europe to treat diseases of the blood vessels and lymph system.
Cordyceps - A type of Asian fungus (mushroom) that may have beneficial properties for bone marrow and kidneys, while it increases stamina, protects against free radicals and restores energy.
Flax Seed Meal - Flaxseeds' omega-3 fats are a good source of fiber that can help lower cholesterol levels, aid in digestion and help stabilize blood sugar levels. Also, its combination of healthy fat and high fiber content make it great for weight loss. The flax seed carries one of the biggest nutrient payloads on the planet. And while it’s not technically a grain, it has a similar vitamin and mineral profile to grains. Flax is high in B vitamins, magnesium, manganese, omega 3, fiber, and our best source of lignans which may promote fertility, reduce peri-menopausal symptoms, and possibly help prevent breast cancer. In addition, lignans may help prevent Type 2 diabetes.
Gingko powder (leaf) - The oldest living species of plant on earth, gingko has been used in Chinese medicine to stimulate the blood circulation and have a tonic effect on the brain, reducing lethargy, improving memory and giving an improved sense of well-being.
Goji Berries (Lycium powder) - These berries contain 18 amino acids and are one of the richest sources of carotenoids, phytochemicals that act as antioxidants, of all known foods. Not only does Goji berry improve eyesight, fertility and circulation but it supports your immune system and promotes a long life. Dubbed as a natural anti-aging food, goji is used to treat hepatitis B (because of the physalin produced by the berries), heart and blood pressure conditions, as a memory enhancer, a treatment for breast and cervical cancer, an anti-inflammatory, and an antifungal, antibacterial.
Grape Seed Extract - they are derivatives from whole grape seeds that have a great concentration of vitamin E, flavonoids, linoleic acid, and OPCs. A polyphenol contained in grape seeds is resveratrol which may interfere with cancer cell growth and proliferation, as well as induce apoptosis, among a variety of potential chemo preventive effects. Preliminary research shows that grape seed extract may have other possible anti-disease properties, such as in laboratory models of:
Wound healing—grape seed proanthocyanidins induced vascular endothelial growth factor and accelerated healing of injured skin in mice.
Tooth decay --seed phenolics may inhibit oral sugar metabolism and retard growth of certain bacteria causing dental caries.
Osteoporosis -- grape seed extracts enhanced bone density and strength in experimental animals.
Skin cancer -- grape seed proanthocyanidins decreased tumor numbers and reduced the malignancy of papillomas.
Ultraviolet damage to skin—dietary proanthocyanidins may protect against carcinogenesis and provide supplementation for sunscreen protection.
Green tea decaffeinated extract (leaf, 50% polyphenols) - Green tea has important antioxidants and compounds. Studies reveal an impact on heart disease and cancer which are promising. The antioxidants, called catechins, scavenge for free radicals that can damage DNA.
Himalayan salt – This is
the “healthy” salt may help prevent acne and tooth decay. This raw, untouched,
unprocessed salt contains more than 70 trace minerals which help detoxify the
blood and maintain a stable pH balance in cells. And all that for less than 5%
of the recommended daily intake for someone on a low-sodium diet.
Holy basil powder - Holy basil powder contains vitamin C, carpteme, calcium and phosphorus which helps the skin stay healthy and supple by protecting it from environmental toxins. It contributes to the health of the throat chest and lungs and protects the respiratory tract and has been used as an anti-inflammatory.
Hydrilla - This plant from Asia, Europe and Africa is hailed for providing increased energy levels, improved immunity, improved digestion, reduced body fat, increased mental clarity, decreased appetite, improved joint, hair, skin and nail health, and an overall increased sense of well-being.
Iron - This ingredient helps to increase your energy levels and your ability to learn. People who consume enough iron tend to have better overall health, less muscle fatigue and more red blood cells.
Kale - Also known as borecole, is one of the healthiest vegetables on the planet. One cup of chopped kale contains 33 calories and 9% of the daily value of calcium, 206% of vitamin A, 134% of vitamin C, and a whopping 684% of vitamin K. It is also a good source of minerals copper, potassium, iron, manganese, and phosphorus. Kale’s health benefits are primarily linked to the high concentration and excellent source of antioxidant vitamins A, C, and K -- and sulphur-containing phytonutrients. Carotenoids and flavonoids are the specific types of antioxidants associated with many of the anti-cancer health benefits. Kale is also rich in the eye-health promoting lutein and zeaxanthin compounds.
Lipase - This supplement helps you to lose weight because its a digestive enzyme that helps your body to break down fat.
Luo Han Guo – This is
another natural sweeter that is said to be 300 times sweeter than cane sugar
and could have a positive impact on coughs and other respiratory ailments.
And recent research has revealed that it may work as an antioxidant to
help eliminate free radicals that can cause serious health concerns.
Lycium powder – See Goji Berries.
Maca Powder - Maca (Lepidium Meyenii) is a tuberous perennial plant that grows high in the Andean Mountains at altitudes of between 11,000 and 14,000 feet. Color-wise it looks like a potato, but it is shaped like a large radish. Maca is considered by top researchers to be a true Adaptogen. Adaptogens enable the body to enhance its power of resistance and adapt to external conditions. They work with the body's natural systems to help rebuild weak immune systems, re-mineralize poorly nourished bodies, and increase energy and endurance. Scientists and doctors are now finding Maca to be one of the best natural ways to regulate and support endocrine health. This action regulates metabolism, energy levels, growth, sexual development and the sense of well being and attitude. Thankfully, Maca does not contain hormones itself. Instead it provides a unique set of nutrients that directly fuel the endocrine system and help the glands to produce vital hormones in precise dosages predetermined by one's own body. Maca Powder is even used to treat menopausal symptoms (it is now being prescribed by many health practitioners as a safe, effective alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy).
Maitake Mushroom Powder - This ingredient has been shown to regulate blood circulation, reduce blood pressure, improves insulin levels, enhance the immune system and have an anti-tumor/ anti-viral effect.
Moringa – Ingredient rich
in Vitamin C, Calcium, Vitamin A, Protein, Potassium and Iron. Moringa
has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and is known to
promote energy, vitality, athletic performance, and weight loss—while
boosting the immune system and protecting against disease. There are
over 46 antioxidants and 36 anti-inflammatory compounds all naturally
occurring in the Moringa plant. That is why it is referred to as the best natural source of anti-oxidants.
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) - This ingredient is a naturally occurring sulfur compound. It is known for aiding in joint health and supporting liver detoxification. A medical study done in Portland found that arthritis patients that took MSM reported less pain, stiffness and greater mobility.
Oat Protein - GMO-free oat protein was added to improve texture and mouth feel, while reducing grit. It is a nutritious protein source that is rich in essential amino acids (including leucine, isoleucine, and lysine) with excellent texture and mouth feel. Oats are inherently gluten-free, but can be cross-contaminated with small amounts of other grains that contain gluten (including wheat, barley and/or rye) during growing, handling or processing. As such, as a precaution we recommend that users consult their physicians with concerns.
Pantothenic Acid (also known as vitamin B5). This ingredient helps metabolize nutrients, produce vitamin D and stimulate the healing of wounds. Vitamin B5 is critical to the growth of red blood cells as well as sex/ stress-related hormones. This supplement has also gained a lot of press for treating a wide range of skin conditions including acne.
Pea Fiber - It provides one of the highest sources of natural soluble and insoluble dietary fibers known. It has been known to help improve cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol and stabilizing blood sugar levels by providing steady burning energy.
Pomegranate - Contains antioxidants like polyphenol, tannins, and anthocyanins, which are effective in removing free radicals from our cells. Pomegranate has also been shown to prevent hardening of the arteries by reducing blood vessel damage, and it may even help reverse the progression of these maladies.
PROBIOTIC BLEND:
Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactobacillus casei, Streptococcus thermophilus - Since most degenerative disease conditions can be linked to intestinal toxemia and our inability to properly eliminate it from the body, this is blend is useful for a healthy intestinal tract.
PROPRIETARY ENZYME BLEND:
Amylase (See above), Papain, Cellulase, Lactase, Lipase, Protease, Bromelain - These enzymes aid in digestion, reduce heartburn problems, gas and bloating, may also diminish allergies.
Quinoa (sprouted) – It contains a balanced set of essential amino acids for humans, making it a complete protein source, unusual among plant foods. These proteins are required by the body as building blocks for muscle. Quinoa is an excellent source of potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium (Nature’s medicine for people suffering from Migraines), iron and B vitamins. Excellent for the heart and since they are an insoluble fiber, it helps in gallstone prevention.
Reishi mushroom powder - Known as a "magic plant", this powder has long been used to help increase energy, improve digestion and sleep, strengthen resistance to disease and regulate the immune system. Reishi is used in traditional Chinese medicine, protecting the liver, as an analgesic, antiinflammatory, and anti-cancer treatments.
Rose Hips powder - Rich in vitamin C, rosehips are commonly used for reduction in asthma symptoms and allergies.
Schisandra Powder - Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) is an aromatic, woody vine that is native to northern and northeastern China. Schisandra fruit is fully ripened in the fall and appears as numerous spikes of tiny, bright red berries. The berries have sweet, sour, hot, salty, and bitter tastes--hence the Chinese name for schisandra, "Wu Wei Zi" (five-flavored herb). Research has shown that Schisandra has adaptogenic properties, which means that it helps the body to fight disease and adapt to stresses from physical, mental, chemical, and environmental sources. Schisandra also has tonic (restoring tone to tissues), expectorant (promoting the clearing of lung mucus), and cough-suppressant (reducing coughing) activities. It stimulates the nervous system by increasing the speed of nervous responses, leading to quicker and stronger reflexes. Schisandra has been shown to stimulate breathing, decrease blood pressure, act as a vasodilator (causing blood vessels to dilate), improve blood circulation, improve heart function, strengthen uterine contractions, improve vision, normalize blood sugar levels, and assist in food digestion and absorption of nutrients. It can activate all major body systems. In general it works well as a stimulator for the central nervous system, increasing brain efficiency, improved reflexes, and an accelerated rate of endurance.
Spinach powder - Spinach has been used for years to help relieve anemic problems due to its high iron and chlorophyll content.
Spirulina - Type of blue-green algae that is rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids (a type of antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage). It contains nutrients, including B complex vitamins, beta-carotene, vitamin E, manganese, zinc, copper, iron, selenium, and gamma linolenic acid (an essential fatty acid). Amino acids (Proteins Building Blocks) make up 62% of Spirulina. Because it is a rich source of protein and other nutrients, Spirulina has been used traditionally as a nutritional supplement. Spirulina promotes health in many ways. It powerfully protects from oxidant stress and strongly supports the immune system and a healthy inflammatory response.
Sweetened with Stevia - Native to subtropical/tropical South America and Central America, stevia sweetens whatever it is added to without adding calories. Research shows a regulating effect on the pancreas and has been used to help stabilize blood sugar levels, therefore useful to people with diabetes and hypoglycemia. It may lower elevated blood pressure, aids in digestion, reduces gas and stomach acidity. It has been shown to inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay.
Vitamin E - it is a potent anti-oxidant which protects the cells in the human body from free radical damage. Free radical damage can lead to very serious and chronic diseases like cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin E also helps to repair the skin, keeping it glowing and healthy.
Whey Protein Isolate - Chocolate Whey, Strawberry and Greenberry flavors. Out of the many protein sources out there, whey protein is the ultimate. It has the highest value in providing branched-chain amino acids, which aid in building and retaining muscle tissue. Each scoop of Shakeology powder contains 15g of whey protein. You can bump this up by making your own recipe and adding things such as peanut butter or additional whey protein powder. Great post from Carl about Whey Protein isolate and how it is right for Shakeology. We Go Both Wheys…
Yacon Root - The Prebiotics in Shakeology are found in the Yacon root. Prebiotics are specific nutrients naturally occurring in whole grains, fruits, legumes, and certain plants. They stimulate the friendly bacteria in the digestive tract, making them either grow or become more active, thereby supporting the healthy regulation of intestinal flora, healthy elimination, and a healthy immune system. When compared to sugar in sweetness, Yacon contains low ratios of simple sugars and calories. It also has a low glycemic index. Yacon is a tasty, potato-like root vegetable found in Peru. Historically, Yacon has been used in South America to lower blood sugar in those with diabetes and improve digestion.
The following is post from the Team Beachbody Newsletter section with an interview with creator Tony Horton about P90X3. Back in 2007 when I began my fitness journey with the original P90X, I did not know much about it other than it looked both challenging and fun, and that I needed a change in my life. I am so glad for that decision and the commitment that it spawned. Get informed make a decision and stay committed. I am here for you.
Tony Horton Answers Your P90X3™ Questions!
By Roland Hand
Guess who's back? After P90X® transformed the lives of millions of
users and P90X2® brought their fitness to the next level, you've
probably all been scratching your heads wondering how Tony plans to
follow all those hard-workin', result-gettin', 60- to 90-minute
workouts.
How about a series of hard-workin', result-gettin', 30-minute workouts?
That's right, Tony and his team of highly trained fitness and nutrition
monkeys have spent the last year developing P90X3—a program designed to
help busy folks get in the best shape of their lives in just half an
hour a day.
Tony sat down with us recently to discuss what's new with P90X3. Here's what he had to say. So why should I buy P90X3 when I've already done P90X?
It's shorter. Are we done now? Can I go? Ummm . . .
Just kidding—not about it being shorter though—because this time, it's
all about efficiency. Each workout is a compact, tidy 30 minutes. That's
half an episode of Breaking Bad (or two-thirds of an episode
if you have it on your DVR and skip the commercials). Also, there's a
ton of new material, like eccentric training. Even if you've done my
entire P90X ONE on ONE® series there are going to be things you've never
seen before. Eccentric, like the nice way of saying a rich person is crazy?
No, that's not really the demographic we're shooting for. The eccentric
motion is the part of an exercise where you're lengthening the muscle,
like when you go down on a bicep curl. It's sometimes called the
negative motion. By slowing down the tempo of that motion, more of the
muscle is activated, thus creating greater growth potential. Can you really get fit in 30 minutes? Can I get the same results as I did from P90X?
Absolutely! Do you really think I'd make a program that wouldn't work?
Seriously! Just look at the test group results. Some of those folks got
ripped! It doesn't take the place of P90X or P90X2, necessarily, but
let's face it, time is an issue for most of us—so the goal of X3 was to
get rid of that excuse. Even if you only have 30 minutes, you can still
get stronger, healthier, and just plain better. Great, but how?
There's a lot less downtime in these workouts. I'm there to help you get
the job done! But that doesn't mean cutting corners. It's not like I
have you do half the push-ups or shortchange your warm-up.
Shorter workouts are a trend in exercise science right now and P90X3
takes that research to a different level. It has to do with interval
training and compound moves and mixing different styles of training—all
of which I've been including in my programs for years, but never like
this.
(Editor's note: Look for Steve Edwards' article on the science behind P90X3 in the first January issue.)
Do I need to do P90X or P90X2 before I do P90X3?
Nope. In fact, it's kind of the opposite. I think P90X3 sets you up to have a stronger foundation for both of those programs. So, it goes P90X3, then P90X, then P90X2? Isn't that confusing?
Everyone seemed to cope with The Godfather: Part II being basically a prequel to The Godfather,
so just run with it. But, really, you don't need to do them in that
order, or any order. They're all different, and they all build on each
other in both directions by adding different fitness elements. If you've
already done P90X and P90X2, you're still going to be challenged by X3.
But if you're starting from scratch, I think it's the best place to
begin.
What's available in the different packages, like Base, Deluxe, and Ultimate?
Hmm, I'll find out for you, but first, I have to finish personally
formulating the next flavor of Shakeology®. Then I've got to buy a few
blocks of television time for the P90X3 infomercial. And then I need to
head to my garage where I handcraft my Tony Horton PowerStands®. Dude, I
don't know that stuff!
There's a company, maybe you've heard of it. It's called Beachbody®
and they have experts on all sorts of things. I'm sure one of them
knows. Okay, okay, well how fit do you need to be?
That I can answer. With modifications we've tried to make the entry
level lower than P90X and P90X2—but you still need a reasonable fitness
base. This isn't for armchair quarterbacks. You should probably be fit
enough to throw around the pigskin a little. If you can't do push-ups at
all, or downward dog, or if you've never lifted weights before, you'd
be better off starting with Power 90® to build your base fitness. What equipment will I need?
As much as I like to play with new toys, we wanted to make this version
of X as accessible as possible, so we didn't include much gear. All you
really need are a few different exercise bands. But if you really want
to dial it up, you might want to invest in a pull-up bar, weights, a
yoga mat, and PowerStands.
If you don't want to get those things, no problem. Don't let a lack
of equipment hold you back—but if I find out that you're spending that
money on Big Macs, some cable sports channel package, or the latest
iWhatever, you and I are going to have a serious talk. How many days a week is it?
Six, like P90X, except it's half the time. That's 3 teeny, tiny hours,
people! Think about that. I read recently that the average American
spends 34 hours a week watching TV—that means you can get in the best
shape of your life in less time than most people spend watching
commercials. What is your favorite move in the program?
That's like asking a dad to pick his favorite kid. They're all my
children! Seriously, my favorite moves change all the time. I love
pull-ups . . . core moves . . . yoga. Wait! Maybe my current favorite is
something from Pilates, because it's new to the lineup and it's
completely changed my life. Honestly, it felt weird at first but now
that it's clicked, I can't believe I went so long without doing it
regularly. Don't you need a big, weird board with a bunch of pulleys to do Pilates?
A reformer? No, you don't need that with our Pilates. You do for some
forms, but we've got you covered. Like I said, P90X3 isn't about selling
you a bunch of gear. It's about getting you in shape. What's the nutrition component of P90X3 like?
It's awesome, of course. Here's a little secret—I don't follow a
dedicated nutrition plan when I eat. I listen to my body. It took years
of trial and error to figure out how to do this, but we figured out a
way to avoid all that. It's a concept we call "Intuitive Eating"—as in
eating based on your intuition. It's not as much about telling you what
to eat as much as giving you the tools so that you figure out what your body needs. So what if my intuition tells me I need Bundt cake and Quarter Pounders?
Then we'll have your copy of P90X3 delivered straight to the ICU.
Don't
worry. There's plenty of guidance in the nutrition guide, but it's
flexible in terms of your proteins, fats, and carbs, not to mention your
personal tastes, beliefs, or dietary system—within a healthy context. What if I don't like to cook?
Am I wearing an apron right now? No. I'm not a big cook either, but you
don't need to be if you want to eat healthy. It'll work to your
advantage if you can boil an egg or steam a little broccoli, but the
plan has you covered.
Everything, from exercise to eating to using equipment, has been
streamlined to limit excuses. P90X3 is a No-Excuse Zone! I want you to
get into the best shape of your life and I want it to be as easy as
possible.
This is truly a program designed to let you do your best and forget the rest.
Ordering Options: I recommend pairing P90X3 with Shakeology in a Challenge Pack. This option saves over $90 over ordering them separately. P90X3 Challenge Pack
Complex Upper. A 30-minute workout featuring explosive training for absolute upper-body strength and power.
Complex Lower. Elite moves that help make your lower body leaner, stronger, faster—all in 30 minutes.
X3 Ab Ripper. A 15-minute ab blast that takes your core strength to the next level.
Advanced Training Tools:
3 Pro-Grade Resistance Bands. Increase your intensity and maximize your lean-muscle strength with these pro-grade resistance bands.†
E&E Energy and Endurance® (1-month supply).
A preworkout formula scientifically developed to ramp up your energy,
endurance, strength, and focus, so you can maximize every minute of your
workout.**
Premium Beachbody® Jump Mat.
Your body will thank you for this super shock-absorbent mat that helps
protect your knees, back, and ankles. No home gym should be without it!†
P90X Results and Recovery Formula® (1-month supply).
A postworkout formula that contains the optimal balance of proteins and
carbohydrates to help replenish your body, mend sore muscles, and
restore energy.**
Gym-Quality P90X® Chin-Up Bar. Develop and strengthen your shoulders, back, and arms with this high-grade training tool featuring multiple grip positions.
P90X Chin-Up Max. Maximize every minute
you spend on the chin-up bar. This tool gives you just the right amount
of adjustable support to help you strengthen and train muscles as you
work toward unassisted moves.†
†Resistance bands, the Beachbody Jump Mat,
and the P90X Chin-Up Max contain natural rubber latex, which may cause
severe allergic reactions.
**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food
and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose,
treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
We are long overdue for an update of how Tammy and I are doing. As the fall leaves were in full color we had the opportunity to have a two-week vacation away from our children. All four of the children had a great time staying with grandparents. Tammy and I soaked up each day without parental responsibilities, it was a refreshing break, unlike anything we had experienced since becoming parents 11 years ago. Now back, it seems like it all may have been a dream, but we did learn to live in the moment and truly enjoy the days, because they are fleeting.
While on vacation we finished Focus T25, Beta phase. Not having any other life responsibilities (and that the routines are only 25-min) made it almost easy to workout while on "vacation" and it did make treating ourselves to special meals even more enjoyable.
Making decisions that affect the years to come. Staying Consistent in a good way.
It was back in 2007 that I stumbled upon Beachbody and P90X. It was the year I was turning 40 and for the previous 5-6 years I had been consistent in basically doing nothing for my physical health. I was on cruise control and really going nowhere. I can say looking back that I am so happy to have had a quality program
like P90X to challenge my limits and build a physically fit body. If
you want to see my progress pictures got to Reverse the Trend Support.
Now, over six years later it is still Beachbody that keeps me on track
and moving forward in my health and fitness. I also owe a good part of
this consistency to my decision to be a Coach. The added accountability
of "being a product of the product" and the opportunity of encouraging
others in fitness has made the difference. If you have had results from a
Beachbody program and are ready to continue the journey and pay it
forward I want you to join our team and become a coach. We need you as
the new year approaches because many will be looking to make a change in
their fitness and nutrition. Contact us through this post to find out
how to encourage others on the road to good health.
Others may still be taking those first steps in "reversing the trend"
and I recommend that you connect with Tammy or me for support and join a
challenge group for personal accountability as well as nutrition and
fitness coaching. Remember to join a group is FREE, all you need is a
Beachbody program, Shakeology and a heart to change.
November Promotion
I like this promotion, partly because I see myself and Tammy at minute 0:18 but mostly because it will be helping feed many hungry people. Another win-win.
I have been thinking about problems, Challenges, set-back, and
excuses. We all have them.
We all face circumstances that seem to not go our way or have reasons
why we cannot reach our goals and be the person we want to be. How are you
viewing your challenges? To have success in facing many of life's
"issues" is to face them and turn them from stumbling block into
stepping stones. Below is a picture of the last obstacle in Tough Mudder that
Tammy and I participated in this summer. (Get through a mud hole that has dangling electric wires, why...because it was a challenge)
Last Sunday at church we studied James 1:1-4 and I learned that the place to begin is to appreciate your trials. Not just trials we put
ourselves in like having to run through dangling electric wires or your morning
workout, but the challenges that seem to be out of our control. We need to
learn to embrace and remain under the trials. True beauty and a new strength can be born from us facing our
struggles.
How are you being strengthened? Let us gain endurance together.
Getting "Back at IT!"
Tammy and I took the family to Yosemite for a 3-night camping trip. Besides being a beautiful place there is something renewing about getting out and away from the routine and regimented tasks at home. However, our trip almost did not happen, due to me (Jay) getting some kind of stomach bug Sunday afternoon. But by Tuesday morning I was ready to pack the minivan as tight as possible and hit the road.
So after completing the Alpha phase of FOCUS T25 we took a rest week knowing the Beta schedule is waiting to bring us back into the routine. Rest weeks can be helpful and sometimes necessary, but it is good to have a way out of the break (i.e. have a workout schedule waiting for you), before just one more day of rest leads to two and you know the slippery slope.
It is time to start again, how would you encourage me?
Challenge Yourself
Tammy and I are regular Shakeology drinkers and in an effort to encourage others to add this dense dose of nutrition into their diet without the excuse of "it costs too much," we are offering a 7 day challenge. The Challenge is $35 plus shipping and includes seven servings of Shakeology, an online plant based meal plan and access to our personal Facebook coaching page. If you feel like you need a boost of motivation to refocus your health priorities join us the week of September 30th. Send us an email to be included in this opportunity.
Each of us needs
to find our own reason, strength and motivation within ourselves, but I
want to know what you are doing right now to better yourself for tomorrow, to grow your inner person and to promote fitness in your life. Reading your testimonies about making fitness a priority will help push Tammy and I through the next 5-weeks of the T25 Beta phase. I want to hear from you. I'll be pressing play every morning, are you there with me...?
How is your summer going? We have had so much planned in the summer that it is good to take time to take a breath and remember to enjoy life in the moment. It is easy for me to say, but often difficult for me to live. Last weekend at our church service our Pastor shared this saying. "If you are not where you are, you are nowhere." Be present.
Too Much information
I often error heavily on the side of giving too much information. I think that is just part of being an engineer. My hope is to bring you tips and support that you will actually read. How am I doing in helping you? Without making this post even longer I want to share some links to past Team Beachbody Newsletters.
We all know that there is no Free Lunch, but there are Free T-shirts with the Beachbody Challenge. The Free T-shirt will not cost you money but it will cost you your time and commitment. Start and finish any of the Beachbody programs and then share your experience with Team Beachbody staff and you will get a FREE T-shirt. These costs are well worth it and you honestly get much more that a Free T-shirt in the end. If you want direction on how to complete the challenge, send me a message.
FOCUS T25 Challenge Pack Discount
In the month of July, 25,000 people, just like you and me, chose to do whatever part they could to end the trend of obesity
and became Team Beachbody coaches. This excitement is mostly due to the FOCUS T25 workout and the new Vanilla Shakeology. So, in hope of seeing more lives changed the discounted pricing on the T25 Challenge pack is back until August 31st. Many of you are in the middle of your current program, stay the course. However, in order to save money and keep your fitness journey moving purchase T25 this month.
Along with FOCUS T25, the month of August has two other workout programs discounted as a Challenge pack. A Challenge Pack is a workout program + Shakeology.
Here are the links to this month's Team Beachbody promotions:
Also The Beachbody Fuel Shot buy one, get one FREE offer is good through August 31st!
Fuel Shot BOGO
If you are already on track with your fitness routine and would like to try Shakeology, we can put together a 7 day trial package for you. You pick the flavors you want in the trial for $35 + Shipping.
People Like "That"
I will end this post with a statement made from the ToughMudder starter. He said, "I like you 'Mudders', because you are the kind of people that put your shopping carts back in the designated shopping cart area."
I think about this often. I go the "Extra Mile," that really is being the best I can be.
Tammy and I have been both reading and watching John Maxwell on YouTube. John Maxwell is a motivational teacher and teaches corporations, businesses and individuals how to be better leaders. In one of his videos John stated:
It only takes 14-days for someone to forget a commitment.
In our current Challenge Group we are on day 14. Tammy and I are in it to win it. Are you keeping the fight? Staying with your commitments?
While each Challenge group will have a strong focus on nutrition, we have really centered on needing clean eating to fuel our bodies during this past few weeks. I am excited to hit the ground running with the many participants that will be joining us Aug. 5th for FOCUS T25. We are posting videos in the challenge group and sharing recipes and tips. Here are some breakfast clean eating ideas:
Our Favorite Fruit bowl - the origins are from a recipe in the book "Thrive". This time it is banana, apple, flax (ground our own), cacao, ginger, pecans (or slivered almonds), plant protein and cashew milk. It place of cacao & plant protein, I often use the Chocolate Shakeology. The Vanilla Shakeology is also a nice way to switch it up as well as working with the seasonal fruit available like nectarines, cherries & strawberries.
Cooked steel cut oats with pumpkin, topped with raisins, pecans, coconut & maple syrup. I omit the coconut and like dates in place of raisins or both.
After Tammy and I finished the Tough Mudder, it was time for a workout break. I took a week off from our routine exercise, during that week I did think a lot about doing at least Abs Core Plus from P90X +. Well guess what, just thinking about it did not get it done. On July 22 I actually put in the DVD and "pressed play", good intentions realized. I am doing well but without a real plan it is more of a struggle. I don't know about you, but it makes a big difference for me to have a routine or a plan to commit to, instead of just "winging it". How are you doing? ... do you have a PLAN? As hard as it sometimes is to start, I am really looking forward to the round of T25 on Aug 5th.
I want to know how you are doing. Take some time within the next 24 hours to send me an update. Thanks for the accountability everyone.
