Ripped in 30 - Month of August - Who is with me?

dragonflyjen

Hey everyone,

I have hit a weight loss plateau and have been exercising for the last 5 weeks but the scales haven't budged and my measurements have hardly changed either. So I figured it would be good to have a focus to keep me going. I have been doing a mixture of fitness dvd's including Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred, so I figured I would get another of hers, Ripped in 30, to do during the month of August.

I have a wedding on the 31st August, so I will be doing this most days and will come on here to update my progress.

Anyone want to join me?

penrbrown

Okay. I'm in. I gotta try this again. It didn't work at all for me last time (gained strength but lost VERY little weight) but I'll give it another shot!

dragonflyjen

Great! Think that is my problem, I focus too much on the scale - so I've decided it doesn't matter so much what the scale says my weight is. I have just got myself some body analyser scales and I am going to focus on my fat % and my fitness. Gaining strength is gotta be a good thing in the long run!

SteveHunt113

Also consider using a tape measure to measure your arms, legs, abs, etc. Sometimes the proof is in the inches, not the scale!

dragonflyjen

As I said in my first post, my measurements haven't really changed at all in the last 5 weeks despite exercising most days, but I will keep at it and hopefully see change by the end of August!

Thanks!

dragonflyjen

Well this morning I put on another 1.6lbs despite sticking to my cals and exercising. *Sigh*

I gradually upped my cals over the last few days to my BMR of 1500 as, after alot of reading, it seems like I wasn't eating enough staying around the 1200 mark, esp with 30-40 mins exercise most days. So I'm not going to worry about it as my body may be adjusting.

I had a rest day today but will be raring to go tomorrow with the Ripped in 30 Days.

My stats:
Height: 5' 6"
Weight: 160.2lbs
Body Fat: 30.3%
Lean Body Mass: 18%
Water: 50.2%

Main measurements:
Waist: 32 1/3"
Hips: 39 13"
Bust: 36"
Thighs: 23 3/4"
Biceps: 12 1/2"

I will weigh myself weekly but will only measure again at the end.

So looks like it is just me and you tomorrow 'penrbrown'. Although we will be following Jillian's Ripped in 30 dvd, if anyone just wants to join in on exercising most days during the month of August then feel free to join us. I will update this most days for my own records, feel free to do the same.

Jen

Cajunmalakai

Your first instinct was correct. Don't worry about your actual weight to much, and instead focus on composition. Muscle is about 1.5 times heavier than fat, so as you build lean muscle it might seem like your not losing weight at all, or that your even getting heavier!

Stick to your routine and diet and you'll start seeing real results soon. Especially as your body starts to adjust. Good luck!

mollyandmumu

hey there - i'd love to join in! I actually did level 1 day 2 today (just started yesterday) it is hard for me as i have not really worked out for a long time and need to lose quite a bit of baby weight. Would love to have a buddy or two or three...

dragonflyjen

Thanks Cajun, must admit it's quite frustrating not really seeing any real body changes after 5 wks of exercise but I figure somethings gotta give some time! But I'm loving feeling fitter, so I'm not giving up the exercise no matter what the scales tell me.


Glad to have you on board Mollyandmumu, I'll add you as a friend. How have you found the dvd? Bet those first few days are a killer, it was for me when I did the Shred, but it won't be long until you can feel a real difference. Feel free to message me any time.

cshamber

I'll join in!! I did 30ds in July, but only levels 1 and 2. I also have started running so I did it every other day. I did purchase the ripped in 30 with it- so I am ready to go! One warning though...I did try this several months ago and only made it to week 2. My neck ended up so sore I couldn't turn it! I will pay special attention to keeping it relaxed this time!

Cajunmalakai

Some of it depends on your relative fitness level. I'm only passingly familiar with Jillian and have tried a few of her workouts. (I prefer Bob Harper as far as the Biggest Loser bullpen goes) But if you've hit a sticking point, it might be that your not using enough weight, assuming the workouts require them.

Jlan11

Add me please! I just finished 30DS today and I am going to start Ripped in 30 on Monday. I can't wait to hear everyone's results!

maryjaquiss

I started on Monday but am in for the last 4 weeks before my wedding on 25th August! Finished 30 Day Shred and now looking for a new challenge :happy:

dragonflyjen

Looks like there's a good wee group of us now!

What hand weights does every use? I have been using 3lbs and although I really feel the burn on some exercises (during the Shred), others not so much. Might be good to get heavier weights to alternate if necessary.

penrbrown

I have 3lb and 5lb weights. I alternate depending on the exercise. Some moves I can do easily with 5lbs and some I can't do AT ALL unless I'm using the 3lb.

dragonflyjen

Will defo get myself some 5lb weights. At the mo some exercises I find tough to finish the reps (but I always do), others it feels like there's little resistance and I could do a hundred more.

Oh and will need to look into Bob Harper's workouts Cajunmalakai, not heard much about them. Thanks!

tree5981

I started Ripped in 30 yesterday again...i never finished the first time I WILL finish this time!

dragonflyjen

Brill! Yes you will, and I will be right there with you!!

Does the plan suggest having a rest day? I will see how I feel, but I think I will rest one day each week.

I just came across this... http://www.workingouteatingin.com/2011/06/11/ripped-in-30-before-after/ pretty amazing ...enough to encourage us to keep it up for the whole month!

cshamber

Day one down!! And Jillian says at least 1 day of rest a week!

Kimbersmith100

I started Ripped in 30 on Monday. The first day I was exhausted. However I just finished day 3 and I can already tell I've been able to complete the reps much better. Kind of a love/hate relationship with these workouts....hate them during, but love them afterwards as I have so much energy and feel great about myself!

laurajordana

I am in but I will be starting next week the 6th

Cajunmalakai

Bob Harper is really great. He has several DVDs including a kettlebell series.

Before I started Tapout XT I was doing Bob's Inside Out Method. Its a four DVD set ( only about ten bucks a pop brand new..or at least they were when I bought them)

It includes strength training, cardio conditioning, yoga and one of Bob's own personal workouts. I saw more change in my body with those workouts than anything I had tried previously.

ANYway, As for the workouts your all on board for, despite a high number of reps, 3-5 lbs is simply not enough weight to build significant muscle, and it's light enough that your body will adapt pretty quickly. Basically, the high number of reps are supposed to balance out the relatively light weight used for the workouts.

Again, I'm not super familiar with Jillian, but alot of workouts of that type share a similar training strategy. To burn maximum calories during the course of the session. This is great, but progression can become something of a sticking point with very light weight, as you probably will have trouble putting on muscle mass.

Remember, the key to improving your fitness is to work out of your comfort zone. The point it to get tired and make your muscles burn and you might be surprised just what your body is capable of. A good tactic is to pick the heavier of your weight(in this case 5 .lbs) and do the entire workout with that weight, instead of switching back and forth. You might lose some reps on your weaker exercises, but the strength gain will make up for and soon you will close the gap.


...I think I got off topic there...

dragonflyjen

Hey there, glad to see a few more joining. I have added everyone as a friend.

I did Day 1 today and I must say it was easier than expected. I gave it my all but felt like I wanted the repetitions to go on a bit longer. The cardio I really pushed myself, but again I felt like I could have gone on longer. The 30 Day Shred has obviously really prepared me for this. Still enjoyed it though.

Are any of you planning on posting your stats to see your body changes as the month goes on? (I posted mine last night) I will be updating my stats every Wednesday.

I took pic's today...not pretty lol...great when your mum takes the photos and says to you, "You're really not going to like these Jen." Thanks Mum...I know I'm not, which is why I'm doing something about it!! Well I'm 160lbs now and really wish I had taken an underwear pic when I was 205lbs...I really wouldn't have liked those photos but would be great to compare.

Oh I have also set up a fb group if anyone wants to join - each month I will be changing the exercise goals to keep things interesting and hopefully prevent plateau's - everyone is welcome. https://www.facebook.com/groups/monthlymission/

dragonflyjen

Bob Harper is really great. He has several DVDs including a kettlebell series.

Before I started Tapout XT I was doing Bob's Inside Out Method. Its a four DVD set ( only about ten bucks a pop brand new..or at least they were when I bought them)

It includes strength training, cardio conditioning, yoga and one of Bob's own personal workouts. I saw more change in my body with those workouts than anything I had tried previously.

ANYway, As for the workouts your all on board for, despite a high number of reps, 3-5 lbs is simply not enough weight to build significant muscle, and it's light enough that your body will adapt pretty quickly. Basically, the high number of reps are supposed to balance out the relatively light weight used for the workouts.

Again, I'm not super familiar with Jillian, but alot of workouts of that type share a similar training strategy. To burn maximum calories during the course of the session. This is great, but progression can become something of a sticking point with very light weight, as you probably will have trouble putting on muscle mass.

Remember, the key to improving your fitness is to work out of your comfort zone. The point it to get tired and make your muscles burn and you might be surprised just what your body is capable of. A good tactic is to pick the heavier of your weight(in this case 5 .lbs) and do the entire workout with that weight, instead of switching back and forth. You might lose some reps on your weaker exercises, but the strength gain will make up for and soon you will close the gap.


...I think I got off topic there...

Defo not off topic as I think it will really help those reading this thread. I was definitely not in my comfort zone this past month which is why I'm surprised I didn't seen changes, but I think I'm getting to the comfortable stage and need to progress. I have been working out holding the 3lb weights constantly, so I will be purchasing heavier ones this week and hope that helps. I used to be really fit and after a knee injury stopped exercising completely (stupid I know), so sounds like Bob's strength training and yoga might be good for me. Thanks for the info.

mollyandmumu

hey! so cool to see everyone joining in

i didn't day day 3 today (level 1). got up late...so i will count today as my rest day.

my day 1 was pretty brutal too - cold only do 2 mins then had to stop i really thought i was going to throw up...managed day 2 ok tho altho i can't finish the push ups or the running man...i use two pound weights. to think i used to at one point in my life go to the gym for 4 am - things def change as u get older and start a family...

be strong for tomorrow!!! we will do this!

Cajunmalakai

Bob Harper is really great. He has several DVDs including a kettlebell series.

Before I started Tapout XT I was doing Bob's Inside Out Method. Its a four DVD set ( only about ten bucks a pop brand new..or at least they were when I bought them)

It includes strength training, cardio conditioning, yoga and one of Bob's own personal workouts. I saw more change in my body with those workouts than anything I had tried previously.

ANYway, As for the workouts your all on board for, despite a high number of reps, 3-5 lbs is simply not enough weight to build significant muscle, and it's light enough that your body will adapt pretty quickly. Basically, the high number of reps are supposed to balance out the relatively light weight used for the workouts.

Again, I'm not super familiar with Jillian, but alot of workouts of that type share a similar training strategy. To burn maximum calories during the course of the session. This is great, but progression can become something of a sticking point with very light weight, as you probably will have trouble putting on muscle mass.

Remember, the key to improving your fitness is to work out of your comfort zone. The point it to get tired and make your muscles burn and you might be surprised just what your body is capable of. A good tactic is to pick the heavier of your weight(in this case 5 .lbs) and do the entire workout with that weight, instead of switching back and forth. You might lose some reps on your weaker exercises, but the strength gain will make up for and soon you will close the gap.


...I think I got off topic there...

Defo not off topic as I think it will really help those reading this thread. I was definitely not in my comfort zone this past month which is why I'm surprised I didn't seen changes, but I think I'm getting to the comfortable stage and need to progress. I have been working out holding the 3lb weights constantly, so I will be purchasing heavier ones this week and hope that helps. I used to be really fit and after a knee injury stopped exercising completely (stupid I know), so sounds like Bob's strength training and yoga might be good for me. Thanks for the info.

The fact that you used to be fit can actually make a big difference in your progression. It's something akin to muscle memory. Your body remembers when it was fit and strong, and despite what I imagine was a lengthy hiatus, that information is still logged away in your muscles. What that means is, your body might progress more quickly as it tries to get back to it's optimum condition, and can probably handle more than you realize.

Your body WANTS you to be fit again, and will help you get back there if your not to cautious to let it. Try training just a little bit heavier than what you thnik you can handle. Are you at about 5 .lbs? Try pushing yourself with 7 or 8 lbs. Etc.

tree5981

Hey there, glad to see a few more joining. I have added everyone as a friend.

I did Day 1 today and I must say it was easier than expected. I gave it my all but felt like I wanted the repetitions to go on a bit longer. The cardio I really pushed myself, but again I felt like I could have gone on longer. The 30 Day Shred has obviously really prepared me for this. Still enjoyed it though.

Are any of you planning on posting your stats to see your body changes as the month goes on? (I posted mine last night) I will be updating my stats every Wednesday.

I took pic's today...not pretty lol...great when your mum takes the photos and says to you, "You're really not going to like these Jen." Thanks Mum...I know I'm not, which is why I'm doing something about it!! Well I'm 160lbs now and really wish I had taken an underwear pic when I was 205lbs...I really wouldn't have liked those photos but would be great to compare.

Oh I have also set up a fb group if anyone wants to join - each month I will be changing the exercise goals to keep things interesting and hopefully prevent plateau's - everyone is welcome. https://www.facebook.com/groups/monthlymission/

I can't find that group on facebook I tried the link and it didn't work for me

HeatherLaShae4

started ripped in 30 on monday.. today was day 3.. and i have to say, it gets easier and easier everyday!!! although i am sore, i feel great!! im super determined and dedicated to this program!! and i totally kicked jillian michaels *kitten* today! haha ..even done some of the advanced versions...!

dragonflyjen

I can't find that group on facebook I tried the link and it didn't work for me

Oh I had made is secret so we could discuss in private but it was so secret that noone could find it! haha

No wonder noone had joined it!

It is now open but unless you are a member noone can see the posts - https://www.facebook.com/groups/monthlymission/

dragonflyjen

hey! so cool to see everyone joining in

i didn't day day 3 today (level 1). got up late...so i will count today as my rest day.

my day 1 was pretty brutal too - cold only do 2 mins then had to stop i really thought i was going to throw up...managed day 2 ok tho altho i can't finish the push ups or the running man...i use two pound weights. to think i used to at one point in my life go to the gym for 4 am - things def change as u get older and start a family...

be strong for tomorrow!!! we will do this!

Yeah the running man is tough going, but it's easier knowing that no matter how hard the exercise will change soon, that's what gets me really pushing myself. If you can't do the easier version of the push ups, don't stop, go right up onto your knees and keep going, your strength will still build up til you can do the next level.

We will defo do this...think where we will be by the end of the month...and the end of the year!!

The fact that you used to be fit can actually make a big difference in your progression. It's something akin to muscle memory. Your body remembers when it was fit and strong, and despite what I imagine was a lengthy hiatus, that information is still logged away in your muscles. What that means is, your body might progress more quickly as it tries to get back to it's optimum condition, and can probably handle more than you realize.

Your body WANTS you to be fit again, and will help you get back there if your not to cautious to let it. Try training just a little bit heavier than what you thnik you can handle. Are you at about 5 .lbs? Try pushing yourself with 7 or 8 lbs. Etc.

It wasn't too long ago since I was really fit, about 2 years, but long enough and I've promised myself I ain't ever going back to being unfit again. I've only been using 3lb weights which are okay for some exercises but not all. But this dvd definitely requires heavier weights, found some of the exercises far too easy. I'll take your advice and push myself. Will only get out what I put in!

started ripped in 30 on monday.. today was day 3.. and i have to say, it gets easier and easier everyday!!! although i am sore, i feel great!! im super determined and dedicated to this program!! and i totally kicked jillian michaels *kitten* today! haha ..even done some of the advanced versions...!

Funny how that sore feeling is a good sore, proving you've worked hard! I kicked her *kitten* today too and did most advanced versions...go us!

Cajunmalakai

A second note about light weights: You can still get the burn with very light weights, but that focus is much more about endurance. so going heavier is what you need to put on the muscle that that really shows as well as being functional along with burning off the gristle.