I didn’t want to go to the gym yesterday, like really did not want to even leave the house, I’ve been having such a fabulous, relaxing break and I just was not up to it. So, instead I headed down to Chapters (much closer than the gym) and picked up Jillian Michaels 30-day Shred that you all have been raving about.
Oh. My. God. It was SO hard. I was dripping sweat and my heart was pumping. I did the Level 1 and 2 workouts, so 40 minutes total, I know you guy’s said it was hard but I really didn’t think it would be that bad. I felt like she really concentrated a lot on shoulders, during the level 2 workout I actually had to drop my seven-pound weights for some of the reps because my shoulders were burning so much and today my shoulders and calves are very sore!

Then before bed, I did 40 minutes of yoga. I signed up for myyogaonline again about two weeks ago. It’s only $10 a month and you get unlimited yoga and pilate video’s ranging from 20-90 minutes. The best part is you can opt out whenever you want to so I don’t have to pay $10 a month for a whole year if I don’t want to. I’ve been doing a lot more yoga since signing up for it.
Next week it’s officially 10-weeks until the half-marathon and Eric and I are going to start a new training plan that we found here. I thought it looked pretty gradual, and Eric thinks he’ll be able to handle the mileage. Check it out and let me know what you think!
Except we’re gonna be doing our runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. I’ll swim Mondays and Wednesday’s, keep doing strength training on Tuesdays and Fridays and do yoga whenever I get a chance.
What do you guy’s think of the plan, any advice? When do I need to start increasing my calories?
PS: I have a big surprise planned for tomorrow that I’m VERY excited about but it will result in a bit of a late post! Thanks for all your great advice that I know you have! XO
**Image courtesy of Google Images**






{ 18 comments… read them below or add one }
oooh!!!! I've been wanting to try that! Esp with summer coming, I wouldn't mind toning up a lil bit and getting rid of some of the winter bloat>:( I would love to know more a/b what you think of it!
Nice workouts!
Now, I’m not a good one to ask about increasing calories, but here’s my 2 cents. Be careful and only increase slightly – add some more protien and a little fat. I gained like 14 lbs during my first marathon because I thought calorie increasing meant eating pizza and ice cream – oops. But I droppped 5 during my 2nd one because I was careful. I just added 2 snacks into my day- like a yogurt or string cheese.
Good luck!
that plan looks really really good! maybe if i ever decide to do a half marathon ill use it! and yea girl that 30 day shred is brutal! level 2 is the hardest to me. but 7 lbs! youre a champ, i use 5′s and die. haha
So glad you got the DVD!!! My jaw DROPPED when I saw that you did TWO levels in a row!! Woah, you must be in good shape! The first time I did level 1 I probably stayed on the floor for 5 min. after finishing lol!
The training looks tough, but I’m sure you and Eric will do great
Very inspiring!!
I’m so excited for your race and to find out what your surprise is all about. I’ll stay tuned!
That plans looks nice, and won’t burn you out. I’m glad it includes tapering before the race- that’s really important and helps a lot. I’m picking up yoga again at home- I used to take classes but I don’t have time for them anymore. I’ve learned that my public library is a great place to get (free!) yoga DVDs though. Not sure what your library situation is but it’s worth a look see. Otherwise, $10 a month isn’t bad for unlimited instruction. Good luck!
Can’t wait to see what the surprise is all about
~Amanda
http://onehappypanda.blogspot.com
I’m impressed! I wish I had that kind of work ethic. But unfortunately, I’m really just not a good self-motivator.
Hey Amber! I see you over at my blog on Glamour, Vitamin G, and just wanted to say hi! Great blog you have! And, best of luck in J-school! I have to say, writing is an awesome career. xo, Sarah
I would never make it through a day in your life.
I’m so checking out that video! I need something to kick my lazy butt in gear!
Props to you, it sounds like you’ve got an amazing plan! I’m definitely inspired!
I just ordered the DVD, and I am so nervous!!! If I suck, maybe Jillian will be able to tell!!
Your plan sounds amazing. I read yesterday that strength training is the most important part because it inceases the amount of calorie burned doing whatever it is you’re doing.
You should make Yoga a priority. Stetching is SO good for you, body and soul.
I might need to buy that video – everyone is raving about it. I adore Jillian – I hope some day I can afford a trainer like her – I need someone that basically screams at me & makes me cry.
The training schedule looks great! You guys will do great. When I ran my first 1/2, I actually didn't really focus on increasing my calories. I did eat more snacks in the afternoon before runs, like granola or trail mix or a banana. Just listen to your body, that's the only recommendation I'd make.
You & Eric will do great! It's so awesome that you are doing this together. I hope to some day date someone who would run a 1/2 or full with me!
I’m going to get that DVD tomorrow!!! Its what I’ve been looking for, I was taking similar noon hour classes at work but i hate being sweaty and going back to work and I didn’t have time to shower!! I agree the library is a great place to get yoga dvds and their free!!
At our library you can get cd’s, dvds and movies, its great because they have a lot of new stuff.
Oh and I’m going to do the same training you and Eric are starting
Katrina
That training plan sounds awesome! I’d be careful about increasing calories at all, though.
Sweet! What a workout!!!
And I’m not good officially figuring on the calories. I just eat more when I need it. Follow your gut!!
Hi Amber,
Try our “runner’s mix” at http://www.mixmygranola.com — custom-made granola any WAY you like it!
Cheers,
Matt
Calories… more protein is best. Nuts & raisins. SlimFast as a post-workout snack (the soy & milk repair and build muscle tissue without making it bulky).
I guess I'll have to check out Jillian's book because as much as she annoys me I know she does a good job. Something to change up my routine if nothing else!
I ordered 30 Day Shred online and got it in the mail a week or so ago… now I’m really scared to do it! Haha
Guess I’d better be ready for a tough time.