This morning I dove abs first (bad pun) into Day 1 of my 30 Day Core Fusion Challenge.
I opted for the Body Sculpt DVD which is allegedly a “twist on traditional strength training, this total-body workout targets everything from the arms and shoulders to glutes, hips, thighs, and abs”
Um, count me in!
The DVD is broken in to 5 different “Chapters” which is a little different than I’m used to in that it didn’t really evoke much of a “standard class” vibe. Some of the sections I loved while others were just okay. Let me break it down…
- Upper Body Sculpt: As someone who’s progressively worked her way up to using 15-20lb weights in the gym (oh, you know.. no big deal) I was a little iffy about downgrading to 3-4 pounders (as the DVD recommends). However, was quickly humbled once the workout began. The high reps and seamless transition from exercise to exercise really kept my arms engaged and I could feel the tiny muscles in my arms being worked. That being said, I wish this segment was a bit longer. I loved the burn but I feel like the 10 minutes was over just before I REALLY started feeling it.
- Thighs: Didn’t love it, didn’t hate it. The instructors used a chair and incorporated squats, plie squats, plie squats with a heel lift, etc. Similar to the Upper Body Sculpt, I definitely felt the burn but wish it was longer.
- Glutes: I have to give credit where credit is due, this segment was killer. It was essentially just a series of leg lifts with zero breaks between sets. It hurt so good.
- Abs: Okay, I died. Literally, died. I pushed Fred the entire time (Elisabeth performs the modified versions of the exercises) and have never felt such an intense burn in my core before. I loved hating it.
- Stretch: This was essentially just a series of basic stretches (durrr) and was a nice relaxing way to end the session.
Overall, I wasn’t as wowed as I hoped I’d by this particular DVD, but I did love the general principles of the program and will definitely continue using the DVD for the Glutes and Abs section and supplement the arms with some free weight exercises on my own. I also have three other DVDs to try so who knows? Maybe they’ll shock me.
That being said, I’m not giving up my challenge. The concept of Barre training really appeals to me but, being that I’ve been having a pretty prolonged love affair with pilates and yoga, I think these DVDs were a little too basic for me.
Oh my God I hate how vain I’m being today. Ew.
I’m thinking of purchasing the Physique 57 DVDs or Tracy Andersen Method. as I’ve read that they’re a little more intense. Has anyone tried either of them? They’re pretty pricey and I’d love some feedback before purchasing!
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Oh, before I forget, remember this morning when I said that my *ideal* protein powder would be peanut butter flavored? Sure enough my sweet friend Devenee over at About Time let me know that the company is releasing a peanut butter and chocolate flavor on their site in 10 days and you can use the promocode PBJ at checkout to receive 25% off your purchase. Do it do it do it!
Okay, I’ve been super “commercialized” today. Tomorrow will be more Jenny and less bad infomercial. Deal? Deal.
p.s. this went in to my belly after working out today and it was really really good. Just thought I’d let you know.
steel cut oats, peanut flour paste, strawberries, dark chocolate crumbles.
What’s the best thing you ate today?
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