OUCH!

Owwwww--will that suffice as my review of Barry’s Bootcamp Chest & Abs? Today I opened up one of my new Amy Bento DVDs--Advanced Step Challenge 2. I did a quick premix that included the first 3 combos. It was pretty fun and not impossible to follow. It also got my heart rate up quickly and kept it up, so that was good. I had to modify a little for my ankle, but it was still enjoyable. After that, I did the aforementioned BBC Chest & Abs, which was really tough, especially as my triceps were still sore from Monday’s Arms & Abs workout. So many pushups of so many varieties! Then plenty of ab work and chest presses. Yowza.

Tomorrow is Shoulders & Back. Can I take it? I don’t know!

OUCH!

Owwwww--will that suffice as my review of Barry’s Bootcamp Chest & Abs? Today I opened up one of my new Amy Bento DVDs--Advanced Step Challenge 2. I did a quick premix that included the first 3 combos. It was pretty fun and not impossible to follow. It also got my heart rate up quickly and kept it up, so that was good. I had to modify a little for my ankle, but it was still enjoyable. After that, I did the aforementioned BBC Chest & Abs, which was really tough, especially as my triceps were still sore from Monday’s Arms & Abs workout. So many pushups of so many varieties! Then plenty of ab work and chest presses. Yowza.

Tomorrow is Shoulders & Back. Can I take it? I don’t know!

OUCH!

Owwwww--will that suffice as my review of Barry’s Bootcamp Chest & Abs? Today I opened up one of my new Amy Bento DVDs--Advanced Step Challenge 2. I did a quick premix that included the first 3 combos. It was pretty fun and not impossible to follow. It also got my heart rate up quickly and kept it up, so that was good. I had to modify a little for my ankle, but it was still enjoyable. After that, I did the aforementioned BBC Chest & Abs, which was really tough, especially as my triceps were still sore from Monday’s Arms & Abs workout. So many pushups of so many varieties! Then plenty of ab work and chest presses. Yowza.

Tomorrow is Shoulders & Back. Can I take it? I don’t know!

Saw the Orthopedic Surgeon Today

Well, I finally took some action about my sore ankle, and probably should have done it before. They took some X-rays and said those looked good. No fractures, at least. I didn’t think it was anything like that, anyway, but I’m no doctor, so I’m glad I got that confirmed. They said it’s been bothering me so long that I need to try physical therapy to strengthen my weakened ankle. So I got a prescription for physical therapy--I didn’t even know you got prescriptions for that. I also got a prescription for some pain medication. So we’ll see how this goes. In the mean time I guess I’ll keep doing what I’m doing--modifying for lower impact and lighter weights for lower body.

In other news, I have much more energy today and though I woke up feeling pretty crummy I’ve been feeling better and better ever since. Of course, I didn’t take any cold meds last night before bed, so I think that actually helped. I’ll be back later to blog about my great workout today.

Saw the Orthopedic Surgeon Today

Well, I finally took some action about my sore ankle, and probably should have done it before. They took some X-rays and said those looked good. No fractures, at least. I didn’t think it was anything like that, anyway, but I’m no doctor, so I’m glad I got that confirmed. They said it’s been bothering me so long that I need to try physical therapy to strengthen my weakened ankle. So I got a prescription for physical therapy--I didn’t even know you got prescriptions for that. I also got a prescription for some pain medication. So we’ll see how this goes. In the mean time I guess I’ll keep doing what I’m doing--modifying for lower impact and lighter weights for lower body.

In other news, I have much more energy today and though I woke up feeling pretty crummy I’ve been feeling better and better ever since. Of course, I didn’t take any cold meds last night before bed, so I think that actually helped. I’ll be back later to blog about my great workout today.

Saw the Orthopedic Surgeon Today

Well, I finally took some action about my sore ankle, and probably should have done it before. They took some X-rays and said those looked good. No fractures, at least. I didn’t think it was anything like that, anyway, but I’m no doctor, so I’m glad I got that confirmed. They said it’s been bothering me so long that I need to try physical therapy to strengthen my weakened ankle. So I got a prescription for physical therapy--I didn’t even know you got prescriptions for that. I also got a prescription for some pain medication. So we’ll see how this goes. In the mean time I guess I’ll keep doing what I’m doing--modifying for lower impact and lighter weights for lower body.

In other news, I have much more energy today and though I woke up feeling pretty crummy I’ve been feeling better and better ever since. Of course, I didn’t take any cold meds last night before bed, so I think that actually helped. I’ll be back later to blog about my great workout today.

Sick and Tired, but not too Sick to Exercise

Sunday night I realized I had a low fever and I felt congested. Yesterday I woke up with a sore throat, still congested, still with a low fever. So this seems a little worse than my usual allergies. Still, I managed to get up and exercise during Ewan’s nap. Just a year ago I would have simply decided I was too sick to exercise, but now fitness has become such a priority that I have to be much sicker before I opt out of my exercise routine. Before, anything would do for an excuse--it’s “that time of the month”, I am a little sick, I think I have a headache, etc. An occasional migraine still pretty much shuts me down, but little aches and pains are not so debilitating. And of course there are still days when I really am just too busy, in spite of making my workouts a high priority.

That being said, I’m wondering how I’ll do today. I’m still sick, and last night before bed I took some nighttime cold medicine--the kind that makes you drowsy. And meds that make you drowsy completely wipe me out. I’m very susceptible to that kind of thing. I am definitely not going to drive today, though I have some errands to run which I can do by walking. I’m so tired that it’s hard even to write this today. I have to backspace over a lot of errors (and I’m probably still missing some). I would be napping right now if I didn’t have a 2-year old climbing on me.

OK, I’ve gone completely off subject now! I was going to get on and write about how I did Barry’s Bootcamp Arms & Abs yesterday and how great I felt when I was done, in spite of feeling sick. It was so tough my arms were very shaky afterward--I even had trouble pushing Ewan in the stroller to the bus stop to get Isaac (which I did right after my workout). Today I plan to do BBC Butt & Legs, if I can get the energy up to do it. At the moment I’m contemplating a nap while Ewan’s napping...we’ll see.

Sick and Tired, but not too Sick to Exercise

Sunday night I realized I had a low fever and I felt congested. Yesterday I woke up with a sore throat, still congested, still with a low fever. So this seems a little worse than my usual allergies. Still, I managed to get up and exercise during Ewan’s nap. Just a year ago I would have simply decided I was too sick to exercise, but now fitness has become such a priority that I have to be much sicker before I opt out of my exercise routine. Before, anything would do for an excuse--it’s “that time of the month”, I am a little sick, I think I have a headache, etc. An occasional migraine still pretty much shuts me down, but little aches and pains are not so debilitating. And of course there are still days when I really am just too busy, in spite of making my workouts a high priority.

That being said, I’m wondering how I’ll do today. I’m still sick, and last night before bed I took some nighttime cold medicine--the kind that makes you drowsy. And meds that make you drowsy completely wipe me out. I’m very susceptible to that kind of thing. I am definitely not going to drive today, though I have some errands to run which I can do by walking. I’m so tired that it’s hard even to write this today. I have to backspace over a lot of errors (and I’m probably still missing some). I would be napping right now if I didn’t have a 2-year old climbing on me.

OK, I’ve gone completely off subject now! I was going to get on and write about how I did Barry’s Bootcamp Arms & Abs yesterday and how great I felt when I was done, in spite of feeling sick. It was so tough my arms were very shaky afterward--I even had trouble pushing Ewan in the stroller to the bus stop to get Isaac (which I did right after my workout). Today I plan to do BBC Butt & Legs, if I can get the energy up to do it. At the moment I’m contemplating a nap while Ewan’s napping...we’ll see.

Sick and Tired, but not too Sick to Exercise

Sunday night I realized I had a low fever and I felt congested. Yesterday I woke up with a sore throat, still congested, still with a low fever. So this seems a little worse than my usual allergies. Still, I managed to get up and exercise during Ewan’s nap. Just a year ago I would have simply decided I was too sick to exercise, but now fitness has become such a priority that I have to be much sicker before I opt out of my exercise routine. Before, anything would do for an excuse--it’s “that time of the month”, I am a little sick, I think I have a headache, etc. An occasional migraine still pretty much shuts me down, but little aches and pains are not so debilitating. And of course there are still days when I really am just too busy, in spite of making my workouts a high priority.

That being said, I’m wondering how I’ll do today. I’m still sick, and last night before bed I took some nighttime cold medicine--the kind that makes you drowsy. And meds that make you drowsy completely wipe me out. I’m very susceptible to that kind of thing. I am definitely not going to drive today, though I have some errands to run which I can do by walking. I’m so tired that it’s hard even to write this today. I have to backspace over a lot of errors (and I’m probably still missing some). I would be napping right now if I didn’t have a 2-year old climbing on me.

OK, I’ve gone completely off subject now! I was going to get on and write about how I did Barry’s Bootcamp Arms & Abs yesterday and how great I felt when I was done, in spite of feeling sick. It was so tough my arms were very shaky afterward--I even had trouble pushing Ewan in the stroller to the bus stop to get Isaac (which I did right after my workout). Today I plan to do BBC Butt & Legs, if I can get the energy up to do it. At the moment I’m contemplating a nap while Ewan’s napping...we’ll see.

Nevermind--I AM too Sick to Exercise After All

Today when my toddler napped, I put on my workout clothes. Then I climbed into bed. I know it’s important to listen to my body and today my body was screaming that it wanted a nap. Actually, it wasn’t screaming, it was just sort of whimpering, but very insistently. I could barely keep my eyes open most of the day. So much for today’s workout. Hopefully I’ll be ready to go tomorrow.

I also received my new Amy Bento DVDs today, so I’m eager to review those tonight. Then tomorrow my pre-BBC cardio will probably be something Amy. I will see if I can handle her Advanced Step Challenge 2. I wish I’d been able to try some today!

Today was supposed to be Barry’s Bootcamp Butt & Legs, which honestly I wasn’t sure if I wanted to do with my ankle--I’d been thinking about doing the lower body work from Squeeze instead. So I might just work that in later in the week.

Nevermind--I AM too Sick to Exercise After All

Today when my toddler napped, I put on my workout clothes. Then I climbed into bed. I know it’s important to listen to my body and today my body was screaming that it wanted a nap. Actually, it wasn’t screaming, it was just sort of whimpering, but very insistently. I could barely keep my eyes open most of the day. So much for today’s workout. Hopefully I’ll be ready to go tomorrow.

I also received my new Amy Bento DVDs today, so I’m eager to review those tonight. Then tomorrow my pre-BBC cardio will probably be something Amy. I will see if I can handle her Advanced Step Challenge 2. I wish I’d been able to try some today!

Today was supposed to be Barry’s Bootcamp Butt & Legs, which honestly I wasn’t sure if I wanted to do with my ankle--I’d been thinking about doing the lower body work from Squeeze instead. So I might just work that in later in the week.

Nevermind--I AM too Sick to Exercise After All

Today when my toddler napped, I put on my workout clothes. Then I climbed into bed. I know it’s important to listen to my body and today my body was screaming that it wanted a nap. Actually, it wasn’t screaming, it was just sort of whimpering, but very insistently. I could barely keep my eyes open most of the day. So much for today’s workout. Hopefully I’ll be ready to go tomorrow.

I also received my new Amy Bento DVDs today, so I’m eager to review those tonight. Then tomorrow my pre-BBC cardio will probably be something Amy. I will see if I can handle her Advanced Step Challenge 2. I wish I’d been able to try some today!

Today was supposed to be Barry’s Bootcamp Butt & Legs, which honestly I wasn’t sure if I wanted to do with my ankle--I’d been thinking about doing the lower body work from Squeeze instead. So I might just work that in later in the week.

Barry’s Bootcamp Weight Worksheets

One of the members of Cathe’s forums, Diane aka Shouldbesad, has shared with us the Excel worksheets she made up for Barry’s Bootcamp. She gave me permission to post them here. You can click here to find them to download. BBC doesn’t really give you weight guidelines, so there are just details of the exercises done and spaces to write in what weights you use every time you do the workouts.

Barry’s Bootcamp Weight Worksheets

One of the members of Cathe’s forums, Diane aka Shouldbesad, has shared with us the Excel worksheets she made up for Barry’s Bootcamp. She gave me permission to post them here. You can click here to find them to download. BBC doesn’t really give you weight guidelines, so there are just details of the exercises done and spaces to write in what weights you use every time you do the workouts.

Barry’s Bootcamp Weight Worksheets

One of the members of Cathe’s forums, Diane aka Shouldbesad, has shared with us the Excel worksheets she made up for Barry’s Bootcamp. She gave me permission to post them here. You can click here to find them to download. BBC doesn’t really give you weight guidelines, so there are just details of the exercises done and spaces to write in what weights you use every time you do the workouts.

Rotation Ideas for Cathe’s 4-Day Split Premixes

I’ve put together a few more rotations, playing around with the many varied premix options on the new 4-Day Split. I haven’t even used all the premixes Cathe offers. In parentheses I list which DVD the premix is on and how long it is. I’ve also added these to the Rotation Ideas document on the Fitness Tools page.

PLAN 1: Circuit Craze
DAY 1 Lower Impact Circuit (LIS + HIS - 68 min.)
DAY 2 Boot Camp Circuit Lower Body (KB + BC - 63 min.)
DAY 3 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 4 Kickbox & Upper Body (KB + BC - 103 min.)
DAY 5 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 6 Total Body Weights (KB + BC - 97 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Looks like fun to me.

PLAN 2: Cardio Premix Crazy
DAY 1 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 2 Kickbox Cardio Only (KB + BC - 37 min.) AND Lower Body
Weights (KB + BC - 31 min.)
DAY 3 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 4 Lower Intensity Step & All Upper Body (LIS + HIS - 103 min.)
DAY 5 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 6 Total Body Weights (KB + BC - 97 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Enjoy!

PLAN 3: Upper Body Focus
DAY 1 Boot Camp & Upper Body (KB + BC - 105 min)
DAY 2 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 3 Boot Camp Circuit Lower Body (KB + BC - 63 min.)
DAY 4 All Upper Body Weights (LIS + HIS - 67 min.)
DAY 5 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 6 Low Impact Circuit (LIS + HIS - 68 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Cathe will pump you up.

PLAN 4: 3-Day Split
DAY 1 Chest, Shoulders & Triceps (LIS + HIS - 34 min.) and you can
add a cardio workout if you like
DAY 2 Lower Body Weights (KB + BC - 31 min.) and you can add
cardio
DAY 3 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 4 Back & Biceps (LIS + HIS - 25 min) and you can add cardio
DAY 5 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 6 Total Body Weights (KB + BC - 97 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Sometimes you want to do 3 days instead of 4.

Rotation Ideas for Cathe’s 4-Day Split Premixes

I’ve put together a few more rotations, playing around with the many varied premix options on the new 4-Day Split. I haven’t even used all the premixes Cathe offers. In parentheses I list which DVD the premix is on and how long it is. I’ve also added these to the Rotation Ideas document on the Fitness Tools page.

PLAN 1: Circuit Craze
DAY 1 Lower Impact Circuit (LIS + HIS - 68 min.)
DAY 2 Boot Camp Circuit Lower Body (KB + BC - 63 min.)
DAY 3 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 4 Kickbox & Upper Body (KB + BC - 103 min.)
DAY 5 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 6 Total Body Weights (KB + BC - 97 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Looks like fun to me.

PLAN 2: Cardio Premix Crazy
DAY 1 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 2 Kickbox Cardio Only (KB + BC - 37 min.) AND Lower Body
Weights (KB + BC - 31 min.)
DAY 3 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 4 Lower Intensity Step & All Upper Body (LIS + HIS - 103 min.)
DAY 5 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 6 Total Body Weights (KB + BC - 97 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Enjoy!

PLAN 3: Upper Body Focus
DAY 1 Boot Camp & Upper Body (KB + BC - 105 min)
DAY 2 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 3 Boot Camp Circuit Lower Body (KB + BC - 63 min.)
DAY 4 All Upper Body Weights (LIS + HIS - 67 min.)
DAY 5 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 6 Low Impact Circuit (LIS + HIS - 68 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Cathe will pump you up.

PLAN 4: 3-Day Split
DAY 1 Chest, Shoulders & Triceps (LIS + HIS - 34 min.) and you can
add a cardio workout if you like
DAY 2 Lower Body Weights (KB + BC - 31 min.) and you can add
cardio
DAY 3 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 4 Back & Biceps (LIS + HIS - 25 min) and you can add cardio
DAY 5 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 6 Total Body Weights (KB + BC - 97 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Sometimes you want to do 3 days instead of 4.

Rotation Ideas for Cathe’s 4-Day Split Premixes

I’ve put together a few more rotations, playing around with the many varied premix options on the new 4-Day Split. I haven’t even used all the premixes Cathe offers. In parentheses I list which DVD the premix is on and how long it is. I’ve also added these to the Rotation Ideas document on the Fitness Tools page.

PLAN 1: Circuit Craze
DAY 1 Lower Impact Circuit (LIS + HIS - 68 min.)
DAY 2 Boot Camp Circuit Lower Body (KB + BC - 63 min.)
DAY 3 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 4 Kickbox & Upper Body (KB + BC - 103 min.)
DAY 5 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 6 Total Body Weights (KB + BC - 97 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Looks like fun to me.

PLAN 2: Cardio Premix Crazy
DAY 1 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 2 Kickbox Cardio Only (KB + BC - 37 min.) AND Lower Body
Weights (KB + BC - 31 min.)
DAY 3 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 4 Lower Intensity Step & All Upper Body (LIS + HIS - 103 min.)
DAY 5 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 6 Total Body Weights (KB + BC - 97 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Enjoy!

PLAN 3: Upper Body Focus
DAY 1 Boot Camp & Upper Body (KB + BC - 105 min)
DAY 2 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 3 Boot Camp Circuit Lower Body (KB + BC - 63 min.)
DAY 4 All Upper Body Weights (LIS + HIS - 67 min.)
DAY 5 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 6 Low Impact Circuit (LIS + HIS - 68 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Cathe will pump you up.

PLAN 4: 3-Day Split
DAY 1 Chest, Shoulders & Triceps (LIS + HIS - 34 min.) and you can
add a cardio workout if you like
DAY 2 Lower Body Weights (KB + BC - 31 min.) and you can add
cardio
DAY 3 Cardio Power (KB + BC - 61 min.)
DAY 4 Back & Biceps (LIS + HIS - 25 min) and you can add cardio
DAY 5 Double Cardio (LIS + HIS - 59 min.)
DAY 6 Total Body Weights (KB + BC - 97 min.)
DAY 7 Rest
Sometimes you want to do 3 days instead of 4.

Rotation Ideas Using Cathe’s 4-Day Split

Edited because I just realized I was calling it “Low Impact” instead of “Lower Intensity” Step. Duh.

I thought I’d post some ideas for using Cathe’s 4-Day Split.

The first is very straightforward and for someone who likes a little extra weight work. I like doing them in this order because then you alternate higher intensity with lower and you don’t do step two days in a row. I also like sticking legs somewhere in the middle to give the upper body a rest. This pattern also alternates core work.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 3: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 4: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Day 5: Rest or yoga
Day 6: Total Body Weights (like Cathe’s Muscle Max) or Weights & Cardio
Circuit (like Low Impact Circuit)
Day 7: Step Aerobics of your choice (or rest if you’re worn out by now)
Lather, rinse, repeat. ;)

The second is what I would do if it weren’t for my ankle injury. You’ll notice I like to rest on the 7th day--it’s just my habit to rest on Sundays and I start Day 1 on Monday, but you could rearrange the days in whatever way works best for your schedule.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 3: Other cardio (jog or step aerobics)
Day 4: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 5: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Day 6: Other cardio or Pilates
Day 7: Rest
Now do it again.

Here’s one with more rest and recovery, good if you have an injury like mine.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Rest or yoga
Day 3: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 4: Rest or yoga
Day 5: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 6: Rest or yoga
Day 7: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Rest again before starting again.

And another idea if you lots of energy.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 3: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 4: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Day 5: Other Cardio--run, walk, hi-lo, whatever is fun for you
Day 6: Total Body Weights (like Cathe’s Muscle Max) or Weights & Cardio
Circuit (like Low Impact Circuit) or go nuts and do Body Max 2
Day 7: Rest or yoga
You might want to try the rest and recovery week after this.

I have added these to my downloadable Rotation Ideas document on the Fitness Tools page.

Rotation Ideas Using Cathe’s 4-Day Split

Edited because I just realized I was calling it “Low Impact” instead of “Lower Intensity” Step. Duh.

I thought I’d post some ideas for using Cathe’s 4-Day Split.

The first is very straightforward and for someone who likes a little extra weight work. I like doing them in this order because then you alternate higher intensity with lower and you don’t do step two days in a row. I also like sticking legs somewhere in the middle to give the upper body a rest. This pattern also alternates core work.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 3: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 4: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Day 5: Rest or yoga
Day 6: Total Body Weights (like Cathe’s Muscle Max) or Weights & Cardio
Circuit (like Low Impact Circuit)
Day 7: Step Aerobics of your choice (or rest if you’re worn out by now)
Lather, rinse, repeat. ;)

The second is what I would do if it weren’t for my ankle injury. You’ll notice I like to rest on the 7th day--it’s just my habit to rest on Sundays and I start Day 1 on Monday, but you could rearrange the days in whatever way works best for your schedule.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 3: Other cardio (jog or step aerobics)
Day 4: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 5: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Day 6: Other cardio or Pilates
Day 7: Rest
Now do it again.

Here’s one with more rest and recovery, good if you have an injury like mine.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Rest or yoga
Day 3: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 4: Rest or yoga
Day 5: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 6: Rest or yoga
Day 7: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Rest again before starting again.

And another idea if you lots of energy.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 3: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 4: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Day 5: Other Cardio--run, walk, hi-lo, whatever is fun for you
Day 6: Total Body Weights (like Cathe’s Muscle Max) or Weights & Cardio
Circuit (like Low Impact Circuit) or go nuts and do Body Max 2
Day 7: Rest or yoga
You might want to try the rest and recovery week after this.

I have added these to my downloadable Rotation Ideas document on the Fitness Tools page.

Rotation Ideas Using Cathe’s 4-Day Split

Edited because I just realized I was calling it “Low Impact” instead of “Lower Intensity” Step. Duh.

I thought I’d post some ideas for using Cathe’s 4-Day Split.

The first is very straightforward and for someone who likes a little extra weight work. I like doing them in this order because then you alternate higher intensity with lower and you don’t do step two days in a row. I also like sticking legs somewhere in the middle to give the upper body a rest. This pattern also alternates core work.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 3: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 4: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Day 5: Rest or yoga
Day 6: Total Body Weights (like Cathe’s Muscle Max) or Weights & Cardio
Circuit (like Low Impact Circuit)
Day 7: Step Aerobics of your choice (or rest if you’re worn out by now)
Lather, rinse, repeat. ;)

The second is what I would do if it weren’t for my ankle injury. You’ll notice I like to rest on the 7th day--it’s just my habit to rest on Sundays and I start Day 1 on Monday, but you could rearrange the days in whatever way works best for your schedule.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 3: Other cardio (jog or step aerobics)
Day 4: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 5: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Day 6: Other cardio or Pilates
Day 7: Rest
Now do it again.

Here’s one with more rest and recovery, good if you have an injury like mine.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Rest or yoga
Day 3: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 4: Rest or yoga
Day 5: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 6: Rest or yoga
Day 7: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Rest again before starting again.

And another idea if you lots of energy.
Day 1: Lower Intensity Step plus Shoulders, Calves, & Core
Day 2: Boot Camp plus Biceps, Triceps
Day 3: Kickbox plus Legs & Core
Day 4: Higher Intensity Step plus Chest & Back
Day 5: Other Cardio--run, walk, hi-lo, whatever is fun for you
Day 6: Total Body Weights (like Cathe’s Muscle Max) or Weights & Cardio
Circuit (like Low Impact Circuit) or go nuts and do Body Max 2
Day 7: Rest or yoga
You might want to try the rest and recovery week after this.

I have added these to my downloadable Rotation Ideas document on the Fitness Tools page.

Am I Ready for Barry’s Bootcamp This Week?

A few weeks ago I purchased Barry’s Bootcamp after hearing how cheap it was on HSN.com (just $19.95 + $4.95 shipping) and hearing so many great testimonials about it from people on online forums. However, I didn’t immediately try them when they arrived so they have since languished on the shelf (at least until I put all my workouts in a binder so now they languish in a binder). I don’t know why I didn’t try them right away--probably because of my sore ankle and knowing the cardio was high impact. Also I have so many new workouts that are here now or on the way soon that it’s hard to decide what to do (though I have decided to stop buying for the time being!)

I keep reading how great BBC is, though, so I think I’m going to give it a try, starting tomorrow. I have worked out a rotation for the next month using all my new workouts (which is uploaded to the Workout Rotation Ideas document on the main page of the blog). OK, it’s a bit of a random rotation though it gives me a nice balance of cardio and weights each week, the way I like it. I know I should probably have more consistency, but I am dying to try all the new stuff, so I had to find a way to put them all in the rotation. We’ll see how I do. As for BBC, I’ve got it scheduled but I think I’ll probably substitute different cardio that is more practical for my ankle. I’ll let you know how it goes.

• Monday: Barry’s Bootcamp: Arms & Abs + step section from Cathe’s Step, Jump, & Pump
• Tuesday: I actually ended up taking a nap--too sick and tired.
• Wednesday: Barry’s Bootcamp: Chest & Abs + premix from Amy Bento’s Advanced Step Challenge 2
• Thursday: Barry’s Bootcamp: Shoulders & Back + Other Cardio
• Friday: Ended up just cleaning house
• Saturday: Still sick--rest
• Sunday: Rest

Am I Ready for Barry’s Bootcamp This Week?

A few weeks ago I purchased Barry’s Bootcamp after hearing how cheap it was on HSN.com (just $19.95 + $4.95 shipping) and hearing so many great testimonials about it from people on online forums. However, I didn’t immediately try them when they arrived so they have since languished on the shelf (at least until I put all my workouts in a binder so now they languish in a binder). I don’t know why I didn’t try them right away--probably because of my sore ankle and knowing the cardio was high impact. Also I have so many new workouts that are here now or on the way soon that it’s hard to decide what to do (though I have decided to stop buying for the time being!)

I keep reading how great BBC is, though, so I think I’m going to give it a try, starting tomorrow. I have worked out a rotation for the next month using all my new workouts (which is uploaded to the Workout Rotation Ideas document on the main page of the blog). OK, it’s a bit of a random rotation though it gives me a nice balance of cardio and weights each week, the way I like it. I know I should probably have more consistency, but I am dying to try all the new stuff, so I had to find a way to put them all in the rotation. We’ll see how I do. As for BBC, I’ve got it scheduled but I think I’ll probably substitute different cardio that is more practical for my ankle. I’ll let you know how it goes.

• Monday: Barry’s Bootcamp: Arms & Abs + step section from Cathe’s Step, Jump, & Pump
• Tuesday: I actually ended up taking a nap--too sick and tired.
• Wednesday: Barry’s Bootcamp: Chest & Abs + premix from Amy Bento’s Advanced Step Challenge 2
• Thursday: Barry’s Bootcamp: Shoulders & Back + Other Cardio
• Friday: Ended up just cleaning house
• Saturday: Still sick--rest
• Sunday: Rest

Am I Ready for Barry’s Bootcamp This Week?

A few weeks ago I purchased Barry’s Bootcamp after hearing how cheap it was on HSN.com (just $19.95 + $4.95 shipping) and hearing so many great testimonials about it from people on online forums. However, I didn’t immediately try them when they arrived so they have since languished on the shelf (at least until I put all my workouts in a binder so now they languish in a binder). I don’t know why I didn’t try them right away--probably because of my sore ankle and knowing the cardio was high impact. Also I have so many new workouts that are here now or on the way soon that it’s hard to decide what to do (though I have decided to stop buying for the time being!)

I keep reading how great BBC is, though, so I think I’m going to give it a try, starting tomorrow. I have worked out a rotation for the next month using all my new workouts (which is uploaded to the Workout Rotation Ideas document on the main page of the blog). OK, it’s a bit of a random rotation though it gives me a nice balance of cardio and weights each week, the way I like it. I know I should probably have more consistency, but I am dying to try all the new stuff, so I had to find a way to put them all in the rotation. We’ll see how I do. As for BBC, I’ve got it scheduled but I think I’ll probably substitute different cardio that is more practical for my ankle. I’ll let you know how it goes.

• Monday: Barry’s Bootcamp: Arms & Abs + step section from Cathe’s Step, Jump, & Pump
• Tuesday: I actually ended up taking a nap--too sick and tired.
• Wednesday: Barry’s Bootcamp: Chest & Abs + premix from Amy Bento’s Advanced Step Challenge 2
• Thursday: Barry’s Bootcamp: Shoulders & Back + Other Cardio
• Friday: Ended up just cleaning house
• Saturday: Still sick--rest
• Sunday: Rest

Feeling Blah Day--Tracey Staehle to the Rescue!

Today was one of those days. You know those days, don’t you? I woke up tired. My toddler had climbed out of his crib--no longer an option to let him play in his bed a while before letting him up. So I dragged myself downstairs to start my day. Must get coffee. Still blah. It was also a grey and rainy day, which certainly didn’t help. My husband was firmly ensconced across the length of the couch watching college football (and falling asleep). This is understandable since he just returned from two back-to-back overseas trips. So I was feeling just generally unmotivated and considered skipping my workout altogether. Why not have a rest day today instead of tomorrow?
But somehow I talked myself into it and I chose Tracey Staehle’s Sculpt Sweatfest, which I just got last week and hadn’t had a chance to try yet. Part of what convinced me to do this one is that it uses the Bosu for a few things, and I haven’t gotten to use my new Bosu much yet. Well, what a surprising workout! I didn’t really know what to expect--thought it was just a standard weights workout, but it was different. The first section is floor work and low weight or no weight stuff--lots of core work. It actually reminded me a lot of Tracy Effinger’s Squeeze DVD. The second section has a little bit standing, parts using the Bosu, parts using the stability ball, and at least one part using both Bosu and ball (tricep dips, which I had to modify with just a chair and Bosu). I do think a lot of the workout could be done even if you don’t have the Bosu or ball. I know a lot of fitness enthusiasts do have stability balls, but fewer have Bosus. Overall I was very pleased with the workout (and sore) and I’m glad that I went ahead and preordered her new workouts, which should come in early November. I also went ahead and ordered her High Intensity Step Mix which I look forward to stumbling through (if my ankle can take it).

So a blah day and I managed to get through a decent workout. Tomorrow is my usual official rest day (though I might play around with learning some new step combos from one of the workouts I haven’t mastered).

Feeling Blah Day--Tracey Staehle to the Rescue!

Today was one of those days. You know those days, don’t you? I woke up tired. My toddler had climbed out of his crib--no longer an option to let him play in his bed a while before letting him up. So I dragged myself downstairs to start my day. Must get coffee. Still blah. It was also a grey and rainy day, which certainly didn’t help. My husband was firmly ensconced across the length of the couch watching college football (and falling asleep). This is understandable since he just returned from two back-to-back overseas trips. So I was feeling just generally unmotivated and considered skipping my workout altogether. Why not have a rest day today instead of tomorrow?
But somehow I talked myself into it and I chose Tracey Staehle’s Sculpt Sweatfest, which I just got last week and hadn’t had a chance to try yet. Part of what convinced me to do this one is that it uses the Bosu for a few things, and I haven’t gotten to use my new Bosu much yet. Well, what a surprising workout! I didn’t really know what to expect--thought it was just a standard weights workout, but it was different. The first section is floor work and low weight or no weight stuff--lots of core work. It actually reminded me a lot of Tracy Effinger’s Squeeze DVD. The second section has a little bit standing, parts using the Bosu, parts using the stability ball, and at least one part using both Bosu and ball (tricep dips, which I had to modify with just a chair and Bosu). I do think a lot of the workout could be done even if you don’t have the Bosu or ball. I know a lot of fitness enthusiasts do have stability balls, but fewer have Bosus. Overall I was very pleased with the workout (and sore) and I’m glad that I went ahead and preordered her new workouts, which should come in early November. I also went ahead and ordered her High Intensity Step Mix which I look forward to stumbling through (if my ankle can take it).

So a blah day and I managed to get through a decent workout. Tomorrow is my usual official rest day (though I might play around with learning some new step combos from one of the workouts I haven’t mastered).

Feeling Blah Day--Tracey Staehle to the Rescue!

Today was one of those days. You know those days, don’t you? I woke up tired. My toddler had climbed out of his crib--no longer an option to let him play in his bed a while before letting him up. So I dragged myself downstairs to start my day. Must get coffee. Still blah. It was also a grey and rainy day, which certainly didn’t help. My husband was firmly ensconced across the length of the couch watching college football (and falling asleep). This is understandable since he just returned from two back-to-back overseas trips. So I was feeling just generally unmotivated and considered skipping my workout altogether. Why not have a rest day today instead of tomorrow?
But somehow I talked myself into it and I chose Tracey Staehle’s Sculpt Sweatfest, which I just got last week and hadn’t had a chance to try yet. Part of what convinced me to do this one is that it uses the Bosu for a few things, and I haven’t gotten to use my new Bosu much yet. Well, what a surprising workout! I didn’t really know what to expect--thought it was just a standard weights workout, but it was different. The first section is floor work and low weight or no weight stuff--lots of core work. It actually reminded me a lot of Tracy Effinger’s Squeeze DVD. The second section has a little bit standing, parts using the Bosu, parts using the stability ball, and at least one part using both Bosu and ball (tricep dips, which I had to modify with just a chair and Bosu). I do think a lot of the workout could be done even if you don’t have the Bosu or ball. I know a lot of fitness enthusiasts do have stability balls, but fewer have Bosus. Overall I was very pleased with the workout (and sore) and I’m glad that I went ahead and preordered her new workouts, which should come in early November. I also went ahead and ordered her High Intensity Step Mix which I look forward to stumbling through (if my ankle can take it).

So a blah day and I managed to get through a decent workout. Tomorrow is my usual official rest day (though I might play around with learning some new step combos from one of the workouts I haven’t mastered).

Word Document of Cathe’s Weight Worksheets

I’ve now converted all the weight worksheets to tables and put them in a Word document--for those who don’t have Excel on their computers or who just prefer working in Word. I hope plenty of people find this helpful because it took more than a little bit of work to do it!

You can download the Word document here. I will warn you, the darn thing is 35 pages long.

Word Document of Cathe’s Weight Worksheets

I’ve now converted all the weight worksheets to tables and put them in a Word document--for those who don’t have Excel on their computers or who just prefer working in Word. I hope plenty of people find this helpful because it took more than a little bit of work to do it!

You can download the Word document here. I will warn you, the darn thing is 35 pages long.

Word Document of Cathe’s Weight Worksheets

I’ve now converted all the weight worksheets to tables and put them in a Word document--for those who don’t have Excel on their computers or who just prefer working in Word. I hope plenty of people find this helpful because it took more than a little bit of work to do it!

You can download the Word document here. I will warn you, the darn thing is 35 pages long.

Updated Amy Bento’s Weight Worksheets

Today I did a little updating to the Excel document that contains some of the weight work from Amy Bento’s workouts. It’s still lacking the A-Team Boot Camp numbers, but I started a page to do those if you want to add them. I will also be updating again soon after her new workouts come out. You can find these worksheets here. They’re the sixth one down titled “Amy’s Weight Worksheets”.

Let me know if you have any corrections to them or questions.

Updated Amy Bento’s Weight Worksheets

Today I did a little updating to the Excel document that contains some of the weight work from Amy Bento’s workouts. It’s still lacking the A-Team Boot Camp numbers, but I started a page to do those if you want to add them. I will also be updating again soon after her new workouts come out. You can find these worksheets here. They’re the sixth one down titled “Amy’s Weight Worksheets”.

Let me know if you have any corrections to them or questions.

Updated Amy Bento’s Weight Worksheets

Today I did a little updating to the Excel document that contains some of the weight work from Amy Bento’s workouts. It’s still lacking the A-Team Boot Camp numbers, but I started a page to do those if you want to add them. I will also be updating again soon after her new workouts come out. You can find these worksheets here. They’re the sixth one down titled “Amy’s Weight Worksheets”.

Let me know if you have any corrections to them or questions.

Higher Intensity Fun

I just finished Cathe’s new Higher Intensity Step workout from her 4-Day Split. I had to modify a bit for my ankle. Honestly I should have modified it more for safety but I was having way too much fun. The first two step combos were relatively simple to follow. I didn’t have to stop and rewind until the third combo--and I had to rewind at least three times. Then once I got it down I went back and did it over again. Then she does all three combos together so I got to do it again. By then I had the right side down pretty well but had a little falter on the left side. I’m sure next time I’ll get that down. I would say that overall her Lower Intensity Step is more complex, until you get to that last combo of HIS.

Once the cardio was done it was time for chest and back. Lots of pushups. Ouch! Actually, she’s had workouts with more pushups but this workout has a big variety of pushups. For barbell rows, Cathe used 62 lbs. Uh, I am not quite ready for that. I used 40.8 lbs (I have some weird weights). The heaviest dumbbells she used were 30 lbs but I only went as high as 20 (don’t own any heavier yet and not strong enough, anyway).

I feel very refreshed (though sore) after that great workout and I can’t wait to do the whole 4-Day Split again, though probably I will try some of my other new workouts first. Tomorrow is a yoga or stretch day and then on Friday I might try one of the new Kelly Coffey-Meyer workouts that just arrived. So many new workouts and so little time!

Higher Intensity Fun

I just finished Cathe’s new Higher Intensity Step workout from her 4-Day Split. I had to modify a bit for my ankle. Honestly I should have modified it more for safety but I was having way too much fun. The first two step combos were relatively simple to follow. I didn’t have to stop and rewind until the third combo--and I had to rewind at least three times. Then once I got it down I went back and did it over again. Then she does all three combos together so I got to do it again. By then I had the right side down pretty well but had a little falter on the left side. I’m sure next time I’ll get that down. I would say that overall her Lower Intensity Step is more complex, until you get to that last combo of HIS.

Once the cardio was done it was time for chest and back. Lots of pushups. Ouch! Actually, she’s had workouts with more pushups but this workout has a big variety of pushups. For barbell rows, Cathe used 62 lbs. Uh, I am not quite ready for that. I used 40.8 lbs (I have some weird weights). The heaviest dumbbells she used were 30 lbs but I only went as high as 20 (don’t own any heavier yet and not strong enough, anyway).

I feel very refreshed (though sore) after that great workout and I can’t wait to do the whole 4-Day Split again, though probably I will try some of my other new workouts first. Tomorrow is a yoga or stretch day and then on Friday I might try one of the new Kelly Coffey-Meyer workouts that just arrived. So many new workouts and so little time!

Higher Intensity Fun

I just finished Cathe’s new Higher Intensity Step workout from her 4-Day Split. I had to modify a bit for my ankle. Honestly I should have modified it more for safety but I was having way too much fun. The first two step combos were relatively simple to follow. I didn’t have to stop and rewind until the third combo--and I had to rewind at least three times. Then once I got it down I went back and did it over again. Then she does all three combos together so I got to do it again. By then I had the right side down pretty well but had a little falter on the left side. I’m sure next time I’ll get that down. I would say that overall her Lower Intensity Step is more complex, until you get to that last combo of HIS.

Once the cardio was done it was time for chest and back. Lots of pushups. Ouch! Actually, she’s had workouts with more pushups but this workout has a big variety of pushups. For barbell rows, Cathe used 62 lbs. Uh, I am not quite ready for that. I used 40.8 lbs (I have some weird weights). The heaviest dumbbells she used were 30 lbs but I only went as high as 20 (don’t own any heavier yet and not strong enough, anyway).

I feel very refreshed (though sore) after that great workout and I can’t wait to do the whole 4-Day Split again, though probably I will try some of my other new workouts first. Tomorrow is a yoga or stretch day and then on Friday I might try one of the new Kelly Coffey-Meyer workouts that just arrived. So many new workouts and so little time!

Shameless Plug

I have some workout DVDs for sale on eBay. Click here to check them out if you’re looking for a sweet deal on discounted used DVDs. There’s nothing the matter with them; I’m just selling a few to make room for the new ones that are coming soon.

If you’re looking for a broader selection of workouts, I recommend Advanced Workouts, my favorite online workout store.

Shameless Plug

I have some workout DVDs for sale on eBay. Click here to check them out if you’re looking for a sweet deal on discounted used DVDs. There’s nothing the matter with them; I’m just selling a few to make room for the new ones that are coming soon.

If you’re looking for a broader selection of workouts, I recommend Advanced Workouts, my favorite online workout store.

Shameless Plug

I have some workout DVDs for sale on eBay. Click here to check them out if you’re looking for a sweet deal on discounted used DVDs. There’s nothing the matter with them; I’m just selling a few to make room for the new ones that are coming soon.

If you’re looking for a broader selection of workouts, I recommend Advanced Workouts, my favorite online workout store.

Kick Butt With Cathe

Yesterday I did the new Kickbox workout from Cathe’s 4-Day Split series. Wow. I don’t know if I can even convey how great this workout is. I especially loved the cardio portion. I loved it so much I caught myself whooping it up while my 2-year old napped upstairs. Oops. I was lucky enough not to wake him with my woo-hoos and I made myself cheer more quietly as I punched and kicked along with Cathe. I had loads of fun considering I was modifying for the sore ankle so I know it would have been even better if I was in top form. I was also very careful during the weight work and had to skip the low plane lunges entirely, but still had some DOMS today, but those were particularly in the abs and obliques. Ouch.

I was supposed to go to the orthopedic surgeon today but rescheduled it for next Wednesday so that I can go while Ewan is at nursery school. I just didn’t want the hassle of dragging him along. So still no news on what might be going on with that ankle. I’ll just keep up the every other day workouts for now and see how it goes until I finally see the doc. Tomorrow I’ll finally get to try Cathe’s new Higher Intensity Step--with modifications, if possible. Previewing it I wonder how I’ll even modify, but I’ll try.

Kick Butt With Cathe

Yesterday I did the new Kickbox workout from Cathe’s 4-Day Split series. Wow. I don’t know if I can even convey how great this workout is. I especially loved the cardio portion. I loved it so much I caught myself whooping it up while my 2-year old napped upstairs. Oops. I was lucky enough not to wake him with my woo-hoos and I made myself cheer more quietly as I punched and kicked along with Cathe. I had loads of fun considering I was modifying for the sore ankle so I know it would have been even better if I was in top form. I was also very careful during the weight work and had to skip the low plane lunges entirely, but still had some DOMS today, but those were particularly in the abs and obliques. Ouch.

I was supposed to go to the orthopedic surgeon today but rescheduled it for next Wednesday so that I can go while Ewan is at nursery school. I just didn’t want the hassle of dragging him along. So still no news on what might be going on with that ankle. I’ll just keep up the every other day workouts for now and see how it goes until I finally see the doc. Tomorrow I’ll finally get to try Cathe’s new Higher Intensity Step--with modifications, if possible. Previewing it I wonder how I’ll even modify, but I’ll try.

Kick Butt With Cathe

Yesterday I did the new Kickbox workout from Cathe’s 4-Day Split series. Wow. I don’t know if I can even convey how great this workout is. I especially loved the cardio portion. I loved it so much I caught myself whooping it up while my 2-year old napped upstairs. Oops. I was lucky enough not to wake him with my woo-hoos and I made myself cheer more quietly as I punched and kicked along with Cathe. I had loads of fun considering I was modifying for the sore ankle so I know it would have been even better if I was in top form. I was also very careful during the weight work and had to skip the low plane lunges entirely, but still had some DOMS today, but those were particularly in the abs and obliques. Ouch.

I was supposed to go to the orthopedic surgeon today but rescheduled it for next Wednesday so that I can go while Ewan is at nursery school. I just didn’t want the hassle of dragging him along. So still no news on what might be going on with that ankle. I’ll just keep up the every other day workouts for now and see how it goes until I finally see the doc. Tomorrow I’ll finally get to try Cathe’s new Higher Intensity Step--with modifications, if possible. Previewing it I wonder how I’ll even modify, but I’ll try.

New Spreadsheets on Cathe’s Weight Worksheets

I’ve added the latest Cathe workouts to the worksheets on the Excel document, with help from my friend and fellow Cathe fan, Leanne. You can find them here. The original worksheets were passed around the Cathe forums a long time ago, so I can’t take credit for them--just passing them along. It’s a great way to keep track of what weights you use with Cathe’s workouts.

New Spreadsheets on Cathe’s Weight Worksheets

I’ve added the latest Cathe workouts to the worksheets on the Excel document, with help from my friend and fellow Cathe fan, Leanne. You can find them here. The original worksheets were passed around the Cathe forums a long time ago, so I can’t take credit for them--just passing them along. It’s a great way to keep track of what weights you use with Cathe’s workouts.

New Spreadsheets on Cathe’s Weight Worksheets

I’ve added the latest Cathe workouts to the worksheets on the Excel document, with help from my friend and fellow Cathe fan, Leanne. You can find them here. The original worksheets were passed around the Cathe forums a long time ago, so I can’t take credit for them--just passing them along. It’s a great way to keep track of what weights you use with Cathe’s workouts.

What’s Happening This Week?

Here is my rotation for this coming week. I’m still alternating days of yoga/Pilates with cardio and weight work. This could change after I see the orthopedic surgeon on Tuesday.

• Monday: Kickboxing, Legs, Core (Cathe’s 4-Day Split: Kickbox)
• Tuesday: Pilates/Yoga (Didn’t happen--kid got sick, hubby came back from trip out of town, blah blah blah)
• Wednesday: Step Aerobics, Chest, Back (Cathe’s 4-Day Split: Higher Intensity Step)
• Thursday: Stretch (Cathe’s Stretch Max--1 segment)
• Friday: Higher Intensity Step & Lower Intensity Step DVD)
• Saturday: Total Body Weights (Tracey Staehle’s Sculpt Sweatfest)
• Sunday: Rest

What’s Happening This Week?

Here is my rotation for this coming week. I’m still alternating days of yoga/Pilates with cardio and weight work. This could change after I see the orthopedic surgeon on Tuesday.

• Monday: Kickboxing, Legs, Core (Cathe’s 4-Day Split: Kickbox)
• Tuesday: Pilates/Yoga (Didn’t happen--kid got sick, hubby came back from trip out of town, blah blah blah)
• Wednesday: Step Aerobics, Chest, Back (Cathe’s 4-Day Split: Higher Intensity Step)
• Thursday: Stretch (Cathe’s Stretch Max--1 segment)
• Friday: Higher Intensity Step & Lower Intensity Step DVD)
• Saturday: Total Body Weights (Tracey Staehle’s Sculpt Sweatfest)
• Sunday: Rest

What’s Happening This Week?

Here is my rotation for this coming week. I’m still alternating days of yoga/Pilates with cardio and weight work. This could change after I see the orthopedic surgeon on Tuesday.

• Monday: Kickboxing, Legs, Core (Cathe’s 4-Day Split: Kickbox)
• Tuesday: Pilates/Yoga (Didn’t happen--kid got sick, hubby came back from trip out of town, blah blah blah)
• Wednesday: Step Aerobics, Chest, Back (Cathe’s 4-Day Split: Higher Intensity Step)
• Thursday: Stretch (Cathe’s Stretch Max--1 segment)
• Friday: Higher Intensity Step & Lower Intensity Step DVD)
• Saturday: Total Body Weights (Tracey Staehle’s Sculpt Sweatfest)
• Sunday: Rest

Trying to Do Something Like Yoga

I have to admit that I am not big into yoga, in spite of my interest in so many other forms of fitness. I have friends who are all about the yoga and any problem you have they’ll suggest yoga as the answer. Are you in pain? Try yoga. Are you stressed? Try yoga. Are you sad? Try yoga. Are you full of mucus and earwax? Try yoga. OK, so I’m just being silly--they’re great people and they’re probably right about how great yoga is, but I have a hard time getting into it--at least into the more spiritual type (and the non-spiritual type is probably not really yoga at all but just poses taken from yoga practice). Still, I try to do that more Western non-spiritual yoga when I can work it into my schedule (which is probably not often enough). Today I did Karen Voight’s Yoga Stretch, which is one of two workouts on her DVD Yoga Power. I like it because it is mainly about stretching and relaxing, which I really needed today, and it’s also not full of mystical stuff. I just like to chill and do poses and not go that particular direction. I actually wished it were a little longer, whereas I’m usually bored before I get to the end of a yoga routine. So I think this one’s a keeper for me.

Another yoga-ish DVD I like is one I’ve mentioned before: Ellen Barrett’s Crunch: Super SlimDown which is a Pilates/Yoga blend. I can’t even tell you what I like about this workout, but I like it. It’s great for core strength and it flows deliciously.

And of course there’s Cathe’s Stretch Max which is not even called yoga but it’s wonderful for stretching.

I’m working yoga (and Stretch Max) into my rotation a little more often since I don’t want to stress my recovering ankle.

Speaking of the ankle, I have an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon on Tuesday to have a look at it. I hope that goes well!

Trying to Do Something Like Yoga

I have to admit that I am not big into yoga, in spite of my interest in so many other forms of fitness. I have friends who are all about the yoga and any problem you have they’ll suggest yoga as the answer. Are you in pain? Try yoga. Are you stressed? Try yoga. Are you sad? Try yoga. Are you full of mucus and earwax? Try yoga. OK, so I’m just being silly--they’re great people and they’re probably right about how great yoga is, but I have a hard time getting into it--at least into the more spiritual type (and the non-spiritual type is probably not really yoga at all but just poses taken from yoga practice). Still, I try to do that more Western non-spiritual yoga when I can work it into my schedule (which is probably not often enough). Today I did Karen Voight’s Yoga Stretch, which is one of two workouts on her DVD Yoga Power. I like it because it is mainly about stretching and relaxing, which I really needed today, and it’s also not full of mystical stuff. I just like to chill and do poses and not go that particular direction. I actually wished it were a little longer, whereas I’m usually bored before I get to the end of a yoga routine. So I think this one’s a keeper for me.

Another yoga-ish DVD I like is one I’ve mentioned before: Ellen Barrett’s Crunch: Super SlimDown which is a Pilates/Yoga blend. I can’t even tell you what I like about this workout, but I like it. It’s great for core strength and it flows deliciously.

And of course there’s Cathe’s Stretch Max which is not even called yoga but it’s wonderful for stretching.

I’m working yoga (and Stretch Max) into my rotation a little more often since I don’t want to stress my recovering ankle.

Speaking of the ankle, I have an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon on Tuesday to have a look at it. I hope that goes well!

Trying to Do Something Like Yoga

I have to admit that I am not big into yoga, in spite of my interest in so many other forms of fitness. I have friends who are all about the yoga and any problem you have they’ll suggest yoga as the answer. Are you in pain? Try yoga. Are you stressed? Try yoga. Are you sad? Try yoga. Are you full of mucus and earwax? Try yoga. OK, so I’m just being silly--they’re great people and they’re probably right about how great yoga is, but I have a hard time getting into it--at least into the more spiritual type (and the non-spiritual type is probably not really yoga at all but just poses taken from yoga practice). Still, I try to do that more Western non-spiritual yoga when I can work it into my schedule (which is probably not often enough). Today I did Karen Voight’s Yoga Stretch, which is one of two workouts on her DVD Yoga Power. I like it because it is mainly about stretching and relaxing, which I really needed today, and it’s also not full of mystical stuff. I just like to chill and do poses and not go that particular direction. I actually wished it were a little longer, whereas I’m usually bored before I get to the end of a yoga routine. So I think this one’s a keeper for me.

Another yoga-ish DVD I like is one I’ve mentioned before: Ellen Barrett’s Crunch: Super SlimDown which is a Pilates/Yoga blend. I can’t even tell you what I like about this workout, but I like it. It’s great for core strength and it flows deliciously.

And of course there’s Cathe’s Stretch Max which is not even called yoga but it’s wonderful for stretching.

I’m working yoga (and Stretch Max) into my rotation a little more often since I don’t want to stress my recovering ankle.

Speaking of the ankle, I have an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon on Tuesday to have a look at it. I hope that goes well!

New Storage for my Workout DVDs

After reading about the idea on Cathe’s forums, I decided to remove my workout DVDs from their cases and put them in a binder. Today I happened to go by Target, so I found this lovely faux leather binder for CD/DVD storage. I organized my DVDs into the binder alphabetically by the first name of the instructor, and then alphabetically by workout. I was helped by my spreadsheet listing all my DVDs (there are links on the main page of the blog to my entire historical collection (which includes those I’ve sold off) and the current collection. Then I boxed up the bulky DVD cases and put them in a box in my basement.

To help me find what workout I want to do, I printed out my current Workout Collection List and put it in the front of the binder. I also printed out The Cathe Compendium and my Workout Rotation Ideas document and stuck them in the back.

By the way, Cathe Friedrich’s new 4-Day Split DVDs come in one very attractive and very slim case, so it doesn’t add too much to the bulk of my workout DVD collection. If only they were all so compact.

New Storage for my Workout DVDs

After reading about the idea on Cathe’s forums, I decided to remove my workout DVDs from their cases and put them in a binder. Today I happened to go by Target, so I found this lovely faux leather binder for CD/DVD storage. I organized my DVDs into the binder alphabetically by the first name of the instructor, and then alphabetically by workout. I was helped by my spreadsheet listing all my DVDs (there are links on the main page of the blog to my entire historical collection (which includes those I’ve sold off) and the current collection. Then I boxed up the bulky DVD cases and put them in a box in my basement.

To help me find what workout I want to do, I printed out my current Workout Collection List and put it in the front of the binder. I also printed out The Cathe Compendium and my Workout Rotation Ideas document and stuck them in the back.

By the way, Cathe Friedrich’s new 4-Day Split DVDs come in one very attractive and very slim case, so it doesn’t add too much to the bulk of my workout DVD collection. If only they were all so compact.

New Storage for my Workout DVDs

After reading about the idea on Cathe’s forums, I decided to remove my workout DVDs from their cases and put them in a binder. Today I happened to go by Target, so I found this lovely faux leather binder for CD/DVD storage. I organized my DVDs into the binder alphabetically by the first name of the instructor, and then alphabetically by workout. I was helped by my spreadsheet listing all my DVDs (there are links on the main page of the blog to my entire historical collection (which includes those I’ve sold off) and the current collection. Then I boxed up the bulky DVD cases and put them in a box in my basement.

To help me find what workout I want to do, I printed out my current Workout Collection List and put it in the front of the binder. I also printed out The Cathe Compendium and my Workout Rotation Ideas document and stuck them in the back.

By the way, Cathe Friedrich’s new 4-Day Split DVDs come in one very attractive and very slim case, so it doesn’t add too much to the bulk of my workout DVD collection. If only they were all so compact.

Cathe’s New 4-Day Split DVDs

I received my new workouts yesterday. It’s Cathe Friedrich’s 4-Day Split: Cardio & Weights. For those of you not familiar with the excitement of this new release, it contains 2 DVDs in one case consisting of 4 workouts. Each workout has cardio as well as weights. Here’s what you get:

• Higher Intensity Step Plus Heavy Weights Chest and Back
• Lower Intensity Step Plus Heavy Weights Shoulders, Core, and Calves
• Boot Camp Plus Heavy Weights Biceps and Triceps
• Kickbox Plus Heavy Weight Legs and Core

I previewed these when they arrived yesterday (didn’t watch every single minute but got a good feel for them). I realized quickly that I’d have to do modifications for a lot of the cardio and probably shouldn’t even attempt Boot Camp yet since my ankle is still a problem. Each workout is around an hour in length, so they’re very time-efficient.

So today I decided to go ahead and start with trying Lower Intensity Step. I really enjoyed it. It’s slightly complex choreography for a low impact routine, and I love me some complex choreography. However, I only had to rewind and do over a couple times to get it, so it wasn’t terrifically complex or anything. I have a feeling Higher intensity Step will be a lot trickier. The shoulder, calf, and core work was pretty tough and as always Cathe’s personality kept me going. The good news is I managed not to kill my ankle doing it. I might replace the Boot Camp cardio with this one when it comes up in my rotation.

Cathe’s New 4-Day Split DVDs

I received my new workouts yesterday. It’s Cathe Friedrich’s 4-Day Split: Cardio & Weights. For those of you not familiar with the excitement of this new release, it contains 2 DVDs in one case consisting of 4 workouts. Each workout has cardio as well as weights. Here’s what you get:

• Higher Intensity Step Plus Heavy Weights Chest and Back
• Lower Intensity Step Plus Heavy Weights Shoulders, Core, and Calves
• Boot Camp Plus Heavy Weights Biceps and Triceps
• Kickbox Plus Heavy Weight Legs and Core

I previewed these when they arrived yesterday (didn’t watch every single minute but got a good feel for them). I realized quickly that I’d have to do modifications for a lot of the cardio and probably shouldn’t even attempt Boot Camp yet since my ankle is still a problem. Each workout is around an hour in length, so they’re very time-efficient.

So today I decided to go ahead and start with trying Lower Intensity Step. I really enjoyed it. It’s slightly complex choreography for a low impact routine, and I love me some complex choreography. However, I only had to rewind and do over a couple times to get it, so it wasn’t terrifically complex or anything. I have a feeling Higher intensity Step will be a lot trickier. The shoulder, calf, and core work was pretty tough and as always Cathe’s personality kept me going. The good news is I managed not to kill my ankle doing it. I might replace the Boot Camp cardio with this one when it comes up in my rotation.

Cathe’s New 4-Day Split DVDs

I received my new workouts yesterday. It’s Cathe Friedrich’s 4-Day Split: Cardio & Weights. For those of you not familiar with the excitement of this new release, it contains 2 DVDs in one case consisting of 4 workouts. Each workout has cardio as well as weights. Here’s what you get:

• Higher Intensity Step Plus Heavy Weights Chest and Back
• Lower Intensity Step Plus Heavy Weights Shoulders, Core, and Calves
• Boot Camp Plus Heavy Weights Biceps and Triceps
• Kickbox Plus Heavy Weight Legs and Core

I previewed these when they arrived yesterday (didn’t watch every single minute but got a good feel for them). I realized quickly that I’d have to do modifications for a lot of the cardio and probably shouldn’t even attempt Boot Camp yet since my ankle is still a problem. Each workout is around an hour in length, so they’re very time-efficient.

So today I decided to go ahead and start with trying Lower Intensity Step. I really enjoyed it. It’s slightly complex choreography for a low impact routine, and I love me some complex choreography. However, I only had to rewind and do over a couple times to get it, so it wasn’t terrifically complex or anything. I have a feeling Higher intensity Step will be a lot trickier. The shoulder, calf, and core work was pretty tough and as always Cathe’s personality kept me going. The good news is I managed not to kill my ankle doing it. I might replace the Boot Camp cardio with this one when it comes up in my rotation.