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Posts: 661
9/27/09 11:09 A

I used my gazelle for 20 minutes yesterday and didn't even feel winded like I normally do. I haven't exercised as much as I should and I work two jobs. It was nice using it; today I work so I will be walking a lot to get in my exercise. I have been trying to stretch out more; I come home with sore calves that are very tight.

Posts: 4,839
9/25/09 10:53 P

I've started what I call "funky friday cardio" - on fridays doing cardio other than my normal routines (usually walking, biking, swimming, rowing). I'll go skating, dancing, use machines at the gym I've never tried before, anything I don't usually do. It's fun finding classes and activities that will top what I've already done and I look forward to exercise on those days.

current weight: 135.0

198 179.75 161.5 143.25

125

SparkPoints: (12,926)
Fitness Minutes: (9,640)
Posts: 1,817
9/25/09 1:54 P

Got my walk in this morning and did my
abb roller this afternoon for something
a little different.

current weight: 195.0

225 205 185 165

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Posts: 4,080
9/1/09 8:23 A

I just ordered some new workout music, 90 minutes each CD, and three new tapes. They help me get in more movement, dancing is super, and my step is my friend now.

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/27/09 9:38 P

My lightning bolt is shifting a little too far to the right. Guess all this answering the challenge has cost me a pound or two. Not worried, yet. As long as I don't drop below 135, my pants won't fall off.

I enjoyed stretching/flexing this day. Cats were all napping so the workout was a little less challenging. No kitties thinking I am laying on the floor for their benefit.

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

Posts: 4,839
8/26/09 11:43 P

Tonight took my grandson to his school's first fundraiser/party at the local roller rink and put in a good hour plus on skates. Granted, a lot (most) of it was taking tiny steps with him holding on to my hand while he got the hang of it, but I still felt the muscles in my legs that handn't been used that way for a while.

current weight: 135.0

198 179.75 161.5 143.25

125

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/26/09 8:39 P

Stretching and flexing is easier to find a variety for. I have Tai Chi, Yoga, and a video for flexing. I wonder, however, if I should be incorporating a day of flexing into my strength training routine. It seems important enough.

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

Posts: 2,134
8/21/09 3:21 A

Tonight my workout will be preparing for an event, so lots of squatting, lifting, moving items, set-up stages, etc. Plus lots of walking and I'll wear my boots.

current weight: 166.0

195 182 169 156

143

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/21/09 12:46 A

I used the weight machine again this day. Wasn't going because one of the cats thought it was a plaything. However, I caught them both at a time where they were sleeping.

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

Posts: 764
8/20/09 11:43 P

Swimming on the stability ball is harder than I thought it would be!!

Posts: 4,839
8/20/09 10:48 P

As a change from walking, spent 30 min on the dance machine.

current weight: 135.0

198 179.75 161.5 143.25

125

Posts: 2,134
8/20/09 10:06 P

walking, stairs, walking with boots and hills

current weight: 166.0

195 182 169 156

143

Posts: 4,839
8/19/09 10:56 P

At the gym, instead of my usual cardio (treadmill, elliptical) I used the rowing machine and stair stepper.

current weight: 135.0

198 179.75 161.5 143.25

125

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/19/09 10:23 P

I plan on trying something different Thursday. The weight machine was fun, but I worry for the cats wanting to play with the moving cables.

I have a DVD I won from the SparkWheel, maybe I will try that.

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

Posts: 4,839
8/15/09 7:21 P

I just got a Bender Ball along with the DVD. This week will start using it on core days.

current weight: 135.0

198 179.75 161.5 143.25

125

Posts: 2,134
8/15/09 1:47 P

I'm mixing things up a bit today...

I have errands to run on that require carrying only about 5 pounds, so I'm walking to those locations... that includes going to a swim & potluck (I'm bringing fruits).

The walking will take about 3 hours, maybe longer... in the heat and yes I have packed extra water, hence the added pounds.

I also have 60 min yoga and 100+ crunches...

current weight: 166.0

195 182 169 156

143

Posts: 764
8/14/09 11:46 P

A new week ahead, a new challenge also! We can do it!

Posts: 387
8/11/09 4:36 P

For Cleo: They have bases for stability balls and they have ones that are shaped more like ovals, so you can find one that works for your current level of balance.

The first time I tried a ball I ended up with bruises galore, but now I love it! So does my 16 month old :) She likes to push it around the house, hehe.

I think I may have jumped into solid running a little too quickly - I was just too excited, hehe. My right knee is hurting, so I am taking this as inspiration to be a little more creative and also to focus a bit more on building up my strength to avoid injury.

current weight: 128.0

156 148.25 140.5 132.75

125

Posts: 2,134
8/11/09 4:07 P

I like walking outdoors and tonight will walk with my hiking boots to prepare for a hike at the end of the month with a large group of family & friends!

current weight: 166.0

195 182 169 156

143

Posts: 4,839
8/11/09 4:01 P

I've been looking for a way to vary my cardio workouts. I'm not into classes - seem to do better on my own. At the gym today, I tried the "Dance, Dance" machine for the first time - with time it can provide a good cardio w/o as well as improve balance and coordination. I've got a long way to go before any of those will take effect, but it was fun and kept me jumping (literally as well as figuratively). Am definitely going to wofk it into my weekly rotation.

current weight: 135.0

198 179.75 161.5 143.25

125

Posts: 84
8/11/09 9:02 A

It took me a little bit to get into this challenge. I just read most of the posts here and I am getting excited. I try to change up my workout all the time becuase I will get bored and quit. I usually change it everyday. However, I think I will get a stability ball. I had one before but got rid of it becuase I couldn't stay on it. It kept moving on me. However, now that I am more fit than before, I think I will try it again. I will probably get the Turbo Jam DVDs and the ball. I can get them on Beachbody.com for 40 bucks. I will let you all know how it turned out.

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/10/09 8:27 P

I found a need to change a few goal settings. I was doing to much cardio a day for my current setting. So I trued it up to 60 minutes per day. Not a lot really, just 30 minutes more daily. However, the simple change brought my calorie range to about 1700 to 2100 calories per day. That is a lot of food for someone who doesn't like to waste time eating. I considered backing down the cardio; however, I looked at the Daily Feedback report before I made the change back.

Wow, what a difference in my nutrients. I met the goal on everything save salt. I went over on salt. I usually struggle to bring the amounts up to meet goals. I wondered if the minimum daily percentages go up with the calorie requirements. I checked, only the fat and carbs changed. Guess I can suffer a few more calories if it means getting more nutrients.

I was surprised at the outcome. I wouldn't have through that 30 minutes of cardio more a day would have made such a huge difference.

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

Posts: 2,134
8/10/09 6:39 P

Monday's are my heaviest workout day, I volunteer my time through my church and move boxes, shelve food items, work with people consistently, lots of walking, squatting, heavy lifting (well for me it is; 40 lbs at a time)... from 9a - 2p almost continuous.

current weight: 166.0

195 182 169 156

143

Posts: 63
8/10/09 11:45 A

Part of this week we have access to a pool so we I am trying to take advantage of that. This morning I walk to mile to where it is and swam for almost an hour. It was nice!

Posts: 4,839
8/10/09 10:52 A

I've gotten into regular exercise, but it's gotten stale and I've been on a plateau for the past year.

I do ST for 60 min. at the gym 3 days/week using machines for upper and lower body (upping the weight as I've gotten stronger), ab bench and captain's chair (along with stability ball) for core.

At the gym I warm up with 30 min. of cardio - treadmill at an easy 4 mph pace and/or recumbent stair stepper. At home I try for either 60 min. swimming or 60 min. on my stationary bike.

As my exercise has increased, so has the recommended calorie range on my tracker. I really need something to jump-start my body and get out of this rut.

Carol

current weight: 135.0

198 179.75 161.5 143.25

125

Posts: 47
8/9/09 10:17 P

Okay so today was alot of fun. I live in an upstairs downstairs house. Or two story as we adults call it. LOL. So everytime I went upstairs I used it as exercise, ran up, ran down, stairstepping etc. It was a lot of fun. I have four kiddos so I spen alot of time at home. I think tommorow I will take a break from thinker and turn on Fit TV

Posts: 2,134
8/9/09 7:24 P

the Sabbath day is a day a rest. Monday's however is a day of total labor and a great workout!

current weight: 166.0

195 182 169 156

143

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/9/09 1:46 P

Sounds like you are having a good time about it, Hicklenicy. Good for you!

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

Posts: 47
8/9/09 1:29 P

Well I have taking this challenge right in. I love it. So two days ago when I came in and read everythign I started. Ready for a fresh attack on losign wieght and getting n shape. SO to start that evening i took my daughter for a bike ride. She was in charge of the pace. For about a mile. If she went fast I ran, slow I walked. Got me in some cardio for sure. Last night well yesterday I cleaned. I dont always have time to stop for exercise videos so I thought I had to make one of my own. I p[icked up toys and each one I bent tot he side to grab, or did a toe touch as I picked it up. Try to get rid of some of those love handles and have a clean home. So i am excited to see what today will bring I have yet to decide.

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/9/09 12:03 P

I think I might be ready to try a different cardio. (I am not ready to stop with the Elliptical, however.) We, now, have a stationary bike. After spending a couple hour putting it together, I tried it out and it wasn't all bad.

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

SparkPoints: (8,838)
Fitness Minutes: (8,946)
Posts: 1,065
8/7/09 10:53 P

Sounds like an interesting challenge to start on.

current weight: 198.2

244.2 219.15 194.1 169.05

144

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/7/09 4:23 P

I am finding this first challenge more difficult as I try new things often. The difficulty really comes in when I chose which new things to try. Some things I have no interest in, like running or swing handled-weights. I am very doubtful that I possess the abilities to try something in which I have no interest, unless someone who enjoys the activity asks me to join them.

Edited by: SHADOZA at: 8/7/2009 (16:24)

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

SparkPoints: (15,596)
Fitness Minutes: (308)
Posts: 624
8/6/09 10:44 A

I ordered a pedometer so I can start counting steps.

current weight: 189.0

199 189.25 179.5 169.75

160

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/6/09 12:39 A

I tried Pilate once. Maybe I will try them again with this challenge. Think it would make a smooth cardio?

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

Posts: 387
8/4/09 10:10 P

Hi Paula! I find Pilates just fabulous for when you have an injury, since you can do so much while lying down. There are a few Pilates videos on this site plus an upper-body workout that is done seated! : )
http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitn
ess_articles.asp?id=720

Hope this helps!

current weight: 128.0

156 148.25 140.5 132.75

125

SparkPoints: (37,671)
Fitness Minutes: (42,370)
Posts: 4,901
8/4/09 9:24 P

I am finally getting in to this challenge. I am excited about it as I too let my exercise routines get very stale, and I desperately need something new to get me back into the spirit.

on the 4th of July my knee popped out and I have been on crutches and now using a cane. I am determined to keep moving although I am afraid of my knee and falling if I am not careful.

So this will be a great opportunity for me to find new exercises. WooHOO!

Pounds lost: 8.0

0 15.5 31 46.5

62

Posts: 2,134
8/4/09 1:35 A

Today I walked for hours used a pedometer 13056, did a lot of heavy lifting (yes I bend my knees and proper mechanics), crunches, hip flexor, bridges, leg lifts, squats too

current weight: 166.0

195 182 169 156

143

SparkPoints: (15,596)
Fitness Minutes: (308)
Posts: 624
8/3/09 10:08 P

Both of you give good suggestions. I do need to measure early in the morning and yes there are firmer muscles under the belly fat. I am doing 53 min of cardio now on my stepper but I have outgrown the stepper. I don't break a sweat and there is no way to increase the tension. I can't afford a gym right now but like the work out on a machine. I guess I need to find another cardio exercise. I will give my videos a try.
Thanks
Rita

current weight: 189.0

199 189.25 179.5 169.75

160

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/3/09 5:26 P

LoquaciousLady, Could it be that the muscles are getting firmer, but the fatty deposits under the skin are still there?

It is not possible to chose where we lose the weight. I feel an increase in cardio along with strength training might help show off what you've been working on.

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

Posts: 387
8/3/09 4:06 P

Are you consistently measuring at the same time of the day? I would recommend doing so first thing in the morning before you drink or eat anything. My waist varies several inches throughout the day, just like my weight varies several pounds : )

Beyond that, I find that there are all sorts of reasons my waist measurement varies:
- Salt intake
- Time of the month (hah)
- Fiber intake

Also when I start doing ab work after a hiatus, the upper abs pull in first, so I the lower area looks poochy at first.

Have you ever tried bellydance? There are some really fun bellydance videas (I love Neena and Veena!) that provide both cardio and strength training for your core. When I tried bellydance, I discovered ab muscles I never knew existed.

With core work, I find I need to be patient. It doesn't show up all at once, but in a month I can see serious changes.

In general they say the most effective ab exercise is the bicycle crunch.

current weight: 128.0

156 148.25 140.5 132.75

125

SparkPoints: (15,596)
Fitness Minutes: (308)
Posts: 624
8/3/09 3:24 P

I am dismayed that my stomach has gotten more firm but the waist measurement is bigger! I know muscle weighes more than fat but why am I gaining inches (weight staying the same).

current weight: 189.0

199 189.25 179.5 169.75

160

Posts: 219
8/3/09 1:41 P

Ain't that the truth..lol
I've had to stop myself from using weights during my workouts for that very reason !!
Working hard doesn't always mean you'll lose either weight or inches, I've gained where I didn't want to(my upper arms)
and it's not easy to slim that back down

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/3/09 10:50 A

LoquaciousLady, keep in mind that strength training doesn't always mean losing inches. In some cases you could gain inches by increasing muscle mass. To lose inches overall, I believe cardio is more important than strength training.

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

122

Posts: 387
8/3/09 10:12 A

I've been doing the Sweatsuit to Swimsuit videos for stength and a combination of walking and elliptical for cardio. I sneak in a few yoga poses here and there.

What I'd like to do this week:
- Running
- Meet with a trainer to discuss a new strength workout.

Other new exercise ideas:
- Find a new walking path
- Learn a new yoga pose
- Try a new core routine
- Try out Pilates - I used to do it when I had an injury and kind of abandoned it as soon as I was feeling better!
- Organize a new playlist for cardio
- Try programming my own intervals on the cardio machine

I'm very excited about this challenge! I have a tendancy to let my workouts get stale. I think this is great for inspiring me to spend more time thinking about what I'm doing and how to keep it fresh.

Here we go!

current weight: 128.0

156 148.25 140.5 132.75

125

Posts: 1,262
8/2/09 8:27 A

LoquaciousLady, anything Pilates. Coach Nicole has several videos under Healthy Lifestyles. Her Crunchless Core is amazing. During the Sweatsuit to Swimsuit challenge I lost 9.5 inches!

current weight: 165.0

177 168.25 159.5 150.75

142

SparkPoints: (15,596)
Fitness Minutes: (308)
Posts: 624
8/2/09 12:29 A

Can anyone join me on strengthening the core? i'd like to lose 2 inches off my waist by the end of August. Any suggestions would be welcome. RB

current weight: 189.0

199 189.25 179.5 169.75

160

SparkPoints: (77,028)
Fitness Minutes: (70,014)
Posts: 5,602
8/1/09 10:28 P

The strength training that I usually do are as follows:

Core:
Bridge-ups
Crunches with twists
Dolphin pose
Hip Flexor
Reverse crunches

Upper:
Dumbbell lateral raises
Dumbbell wrist curls
Pushups
Seated dumbbell concentration curls
Seated dumbbell shoulder press

Lower:
Lateral lunges
Single leg bridge-ups
Single leg squats w/ toe touch
Skater squats
Wide leg wall sit with calf raises

Stretches after work outs depends on the work out, but mostly are designed to stretch the muscles that were stressed.

Cardio: Elliptical mostly. I supplement the elliptical work out with manual labor which I have managed to convince myself is not exercise so I can do as much as I like and not burn calories.

How I feel about the above is simple: It stopped being effective months passing. I continue because it is convenient. I am not getting the desired results so it is time for a change.

I won't write down the exercises I want to try as I have already compiled a list of exercises from the demo catalogue SparkPeople provides. Since I prefer to do at least 9 strength training exercises in a session, I have decided to pick 6 exercises from the list under the Upper or Lower list and 3 from the core list each session. On days that I choose to focus on Core, I will do 6 core from the list and 3 forms of plie (which include upper body movements) that I've learned from the My Fitness Coach program.

Changing the cardio is more of a challenge because using the elliptical provides me with quiet time for reading. I will try using a preset program at least once this week on the elliptical.

I'm meaning to copy this to my personal journal so I won't populate this thread with my notes and comments about the adventure.

NOTE: I removed the strength training groups listed above from the tracker so they are no longer a convenient choice.

current weight: 134.0

163 152.75 142.5 132.25

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