First Review

Over the past 4 days I have been working out on Level 1 of the 30 Day Shred by Jillian Michaels. The 30 Day Shred is a hard workout. Don't be fooled because it only lasts 20 minutes. As Jillian says, "You don't get to do a 20 minute workout and take a rest." So, during that short period of time you are always moving and sweating.

The thought that all of this will soon be over, carried me through the first 2 days. The workout covers just about every area of the body so there are no other words to describe how I felt, except to say, I was sore ALL over. At the end of the second day, I wasn't quite sure I would be able to finish my goal of completing all 3 levels in 30 days. But here I sit on the 5 day and I feel good and optimistic that I can continue. There were some successes that I have seen in just a few days. I have never been able to do push-ups, so I have been doing them on my knees. However, yesterday I was able to do both sets of push-ups on my toes for the first time. Even though I didn't touch my nose to the floor, I proved to myself that I was able to push myself and see results. Completing all the jumping jacks and jump rope movements was a great encouragement as well.

I am blending in my running routine with the DVD workout and doing both 5 days a week was overwhelming at the beginning. Tuesday, was the hardest running day I have experienced in a while. My muscles were screaming and my breathing seemed off. I wanted to stop but somehow, God just gave me the strength to finish my 3 miles. Wednesdays are rest days and it was much needed this week. The knowledge that doing a 20 minute workout was the only requirement for the day was thrilling! The rest days help muscles recover and I believe there is something mentally that prepares you for a longer run. To prove that point to myself, I was able to run 6 miles yesterday.

Sore muscles are a constant reminder that there is a goal at the end of the road. However, waking up and realizing that these same muscles are no longer in pain is amazing. After only 4 days, this 5Th day finds me feeling "normal". Yes, some muscles are tight but that is to be expected. Pushing myself harder than I have in a long time and then recovering quickly, tells me I am on the right track. I can do this. I don't have to quit. I am stronger and can endure. I really can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.

I plan to move up to Level 2 on the 30 Day Shred, Monday. I am intimidated by the thought I'll be advancing and yet, excited to think that I might be able to pull this off. I don't know how well I will finish, I just know I will finish.

Don't quit on yourself!