Stage 1 - Workouts too short?

RoamingDuck

I'm sure this has been addressed before, but I just need you guys to put my mind at ease. I've been lifting on and off for a bout a year, and I've definitely had some results (especially my legs). Most of that time has been spent doing routines that I created myself, with a focus on compound movements such as squats, deadlifts, and push-ups. However, I wanted a program that would help be balance out my body - that was actually backed by some scientific data.

So I'm trying this program and it seems pretty legit, except for one thing. I completed my first workout for stage 1 today, and it only took me about 20 minutes (not even really). I am used to working out for 45-55 minutes at a time, 3 times a week. I just need someone to tell me that's it's quality versus quantity right now so I can stop thinking about it so much. Thanks!

feltlikesound

I dunno how much comfort I can offer as I am only about 1.5 months into the program, but as I build the "foundation" skill and am able to up weight, my reps and sets take much longer due to the effort -- I have definitely gotten results in the time period (and I have lifted extensively in the past with a trainer, for comparison's sake).

It now takes me 45 minutes to do the whole workout, including warmup (10 minutes of cardio).

rduhlir

The smaller workouts in stage 1 aren't just about getting in a good workout. A lot of women will have never lifted before, ever, so stage one's true focus is on form. That is why it starts out higher rep/lower weight and then moves into the lower rep/higher weight catagory.

Don't worry, the time spent in the gym goes up when you bring in the intervals and the body matrix later on. And then it really gets longer when you get into the 4-6 heavy reps with 2 minutes rests.

kwoww9797

I feel the same way. And the book warns not to add to the workouts because of it's special design which I have been struggling with because I have to just walk away! LOL

I would like to hear of other woman's experiences who lifted regularly before starting this program and what results they saw after the completion this lifting program. I think If I had some of this type of evidence I would feel better about continuing.

I have just finished week one of stage one, and I am pushing myself to continue because if it does work I should see some results by the end of stage one, right?! I am hoping so because I have never stuck to anything before, and I'm determined to see some muscle definition over the next six months!!

jamifishie

Stage 1 focuses on getting you used to lifting. You should be perfecting your form and -- and I think that this is the mistake I see a lot of women making -- you should be lifting enough that you walk away tired. Seriously. If you think at the end of a set "I could do one more" then add more weight -- not more reps.

The workouts get longer when you start adding sets later on, and they get significantly longer in stages 2 and 3. You'll miss this short workouts in the end.

I'm on Stage 6, and there are HUGE improvements in my body, my posture, and my confidence. Just keep lifting!

kaogirlup

OMG!!! I thought the SAME THING at the beginning of stage 1!!! I am nearing the end of stage 1 now and TRUST ME...it will get harder, the workouts will get longer and it will feel more like you are making progress. It is currently taking me 35 to 50 minutes to complete the workouts at the end of stage one, and I'm definitely seeing and feeling results! Just keep it up!!!