The "P90X" Leopard

Beginning Phase 2 - 30 Days Comparison

2010-10-11T21:28:00.000-07:00

This morning I completed "Chest, Shoulders & Triceps" and began Phase 2 of this go-around of P90X. During the first four weeks, I was pretty consistent, except for not doing Ab Ripper X more than once a week. Lack of time in the morning when I work out is the best excuse I have, but it's real!

I've also consistently been using my creatine. I think I'm seeing some results in just 30 days visually. I definitely feel like I'm a little bulkier, but still not too much. My goal is to get a little bigger, but also creating more definition. This is where my diet is betting better, but still not as good as it needs to be. I need to make lifetime changes for the better.

What I really, really like is my energy and increase in strength! Without a doubt, I have to thank some of that to the creatine, but I also know that I had a decent base before beginning this series of P90X. My flexibility is also near or at an all time high. That is in thanks to my consistency with Yoga-X and Stretch-X. It is a very good feeling to see the progress when I am 40 stinkin' years old!

DAY 0 DAY 30

September 13, 2010 October 11, 2010

I also consider what my fitness means to my faith while I'm on this journey. I certainly know the physical me is nothing without my faith and belief in Jesus as my Savior. One important benefit is being able to keep up with my two sons, in addition to the work I do at my church with middle school boys. Having the engergy at the end of the day on Wednesdays is necessary, if I am to relate to and keep up with them!

Update to My Rededication to P90X

2010-09-27T20:58:00.000-07:00

So, I'm beginning my 3rd week of the first month in my rededication to P90X. I have done every day as I'm directed, except for only doing about 1/2 of the Ab Ripper X days. I'm just too pooped to continue after the usual M, W, or F workout, but I will find 15 minutes in the evenings to do it half of the time.

My diet is so-so, but I know I'm getting in few calories. One thing I am doing different is adding a supplement to my workouts. My choice was Body Fortress Super Advanced Creatine HP. My first reaction for beginning such a supplement was whoa, man, isn't this bad? Isn't this what Mark McGuire used and got ridiculed? (When he allegedely didn't use any other banned substance, and creatine was legal to use in baseball at the time). My verdict so far ... BIG thumbs up!

I know it was probably psychological, but on the very first day, I felt the effects that is written about in the research ... it gives a greater "pump" while working out, and it also delays fatigue - that lactic acid feeling. Now that I've been taking it for 2+ weeks, I feel wonderful, I think I am stronger, and my muscle mass is larger, and my definition is beginning to show just a bit more positively. Only one thing to watch out for that I've read about is cramping. Just this morning, I was turning in my car into the backseat, and my left pectoral muscle cramped on me. As of this writing, the same muscle is a bit sore from the earlier cramping ... I would probably attribute it to the supplement as this has been one side effect for others.

In addition, I've probably gained 5 pounds, more than likely just muscle mass. Below are a few pictures that I took from a few weeks ago. This was one week after P90X, and one week of creatine. It's crazy to think the supplement could have made a difference in such a short time, but my gut tells me this is what it's from! I see a little more "fat tire" in my midsection. I think the only thing that will help this is my diet getting better ... I gotta make improvements in that arena.

Here I Go Again!

2010-09-12T17:57:00.001-07:00

Ok, to steal the title of a good Whitesnake song, I'm recommitting myself to P90X again. I'm also going to eat better, begin to supplement a little, and overall just be healthier. I am 40 afterall ... I'm a man!

Nearing the End of 2nd Session!

2009-11-10T20:29:00.000-08:00

I'm nearing the end of my 2nd 90 days of P90X, and I'd say I'm still very pleased with how things are going. Any negatives are because of my own behaviour. My eating has gotten even a little worse than I did in the first 90 days, and I was never fully committed to the diet portion then. I miss one or two workouts a week and still consider it a complete week. Previously, I would do doubles in one day if I missed any workout.

I'm cool with all of that. I set a new record on Sunday with doing 18 pullups! Amazing! I couldn't do more than 3 when I started last May. Also, I know I talk a lot more about P90X to lots of other people. I'd say a few started it because they had already heard of it, but then when they heard me compliment it so much, they gave it a whirl for themselves.

Update and Injury

2009-09-19T06:09:00.000-07:00

So I'm plodding along nicely in week #1, phase 2 in my second go-round of P90X ... and I sprained my ankle pretty nicely while participating on a scavenger hunt with the middle school at my church. The assignment we were working on was getting a picture of road kill and while getting out of the car, and onto the curb, my left foot rolled under ... immediate pain! It seemed to get better as the evening wrapped up and the swelling continued. I iced it when I got home, the swelling seemed to steady, but it became more painful to walk on. No ER visit yet ... but I'm wondering.

Progress with pull ups!

2009-09-04T15:03:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note here to mark my progress with pullups. This morning was Legs/Back followed by Ab Ripper. One of my highlights with this routine is right off the bat, I get to max out on my reverse grip pull ups. Today I set a personal record by doing 15 straight! I did 14 last week. Back in week one, I could barely do 4 straight. In addition, I also have set a record this morning with my total number of pullups, but I don't feel like adding them all up right now!

My P90X Update

2009-09-03T19:33:00.000-07:00

I haven't been updating my P90X blog because I'm not taking it as seriously after doing it the first 90 days. I am sticking to most of the workouts, but I'm not as "hard core" as I was. For example, in week one, I can remember missing Plyometrics on Tuesday, and I missed one of the Ab Ripper workouts. During week two, I missed doing Legs/Back, Kenpo, and an Ab Ripper workout. With this, I'm looking to take baby steps to eating better too. My ice cream and desserts are in small portions.

I did Yoga X after work tonight, and I felt really strong in most of my poses. I love the sweat that comes without any high impact work. I've also noticed I like the evening workouts because I'm stronger and more flexible. When I'm doing weights, I can use more weight, and generally get in a few more reps per exercise. As it turns out, I'm happy to get in the workout whether it's in the morning or evening ... especially if I can get JR to workout with me!

My Final Four Comparisons - Back Pose 3

2009-08-23T15:46:00.001-07:00

The best part is seeing my waist shrink away. The better part is seeing some definition in my back and along my spine. The good part is noticing an increase in muscle mass around my shoulders. P90X is cool and works!

My Final Four Comparisons - Back Pose 2

2009-08-21T21:47:00.001-07:00

I'd really like to see that ultimate "V" in my back from my shoulders to my waist, but I'm a realist too, and think I have good progress from Day 0 to Day 90. It still amazes me to look at my waist when I began ... I just ran a marathon and was running 20-40 miles per week! I think my summer tan and shorter shorts helped as well. The exercises that really made me progress in this pose had to be the pullups. I can now do 15 pullups if I have my normal energy at any moment ... how cool is that?!

My Final Four Comparisons - Back Pose 1

2009-08-20T20:35:00.000-07:00

As you'll see in the next few days, I think I see more difference in my back poses when looking at Day 60 versus Day 90 (they're in order from 0, 30, 60, and 90 - left to right). What I'm seeing is a little more muscle definition - not a lot, but at least something in my lower lumbar.

My Final Four Comparisons - Front Pose 3

2009-08-19T03:51:00.000-07:00

Here are my comparisons in somewhat of a muscle pose, "Front Pose 3." I know from Day 0 to Day 90 the change is seen, but I did get a change in the last month too, especially in the size of my pecs. I feel better when wearing t-shirts too.

My Final Four Comparisons - Front Pose 2

2009-08-18T20:39:00.000-07:00

Here are my comparisons in "Front Pose 2. I definitely see the difference from beginning to end. From Day 60 to Day 90, maybe a little better in my abs? Shaving my chest helped too!

My Final Four Comparisons - Front Pose 1

2009-08-17T20:27:00.001-07:00

All of the pictures are my final shots from Day 0, Day 30, Day 60, and Day 90. Here you have the classic "Front Pose 1." I think the difference I see in my latest picture is a little more mass in my chest and shoulders. I don't see any 6-pack abs, but I think it may have come, had I stuck to a diet. For the most part, I ate healthier, but I still had my share of junk food. My metabolism is definitely higher from the increase in muscle, but not like it was back in high school and college!

P90X Complete ... Sort of ...

2009-08-17T20:19:00.000-07:00

I didn't really feel like completing what I did for the past few days of my P90X workouts. I sure did them, they were tough, but I persevered, I just wasn't motivated to get online and write. But here I am, on Monday following my completion of P90X Classic and of course ... I have a few bullet points!

*It works. My main goal all along was to look better physically (I can admit that!), and when the pictures are compared, I think I lost some fat and gained muscle mass.
*I am more flexible than when I wrestled in high school.
*I feel my overall fitness is better than it has been in a long, long time. I can't run a marathon like I did just before I began this program a little more than three months ago, but I can stick with my kids and their activities better than ever!
*I no longer have plantar fasciitis like I did when I was running.
*I feel better wearing my polo shirts and t-shirts.
*I don't look away from myself when I see myself in the mirror with my shirt off.
*I understand the concept of why the workouts work more than I did at the beginning. I especially understand the recovery week. Half way through it, I feel I'm losing fitness, but once the Monday comes along and I hit the weights and Ab Ripper X again, I can feel and even see the boost to my physique ... cool!
*I think I'm gonna pick up and begin the series all over again, but not be so fastidious if I miss a workout of two because of other obligations. It's all about lifetime changes anyway!

I'll be posting my final pictures one at a time again, so see if you can see the changes too!

Phase 3, Week 5, Day 2

2009-08-12T17:06:00.000-07:00

Kenpo-X is the workout for day 2 in a recovery week. For the most part, I felt great and worked hard through out the time. But one thing I notice is that when I'm done, I feel like I haven't done enough. I feel like I need to do more than what I'm being asked to do this week. I felt the exact same during the recovery week in phase 2, but it still felt hard in phase 1. I guess it's about the progress ... cool!

Phase 3, Week 5, Day 1

2009-08-10T16:13:00.000-07:00

Entering the homestretch for P90X, this week begins with Yoga-X. I wasn't necessarily looking forward to 90 minutes on a Monday, but I persevered and completed it. And ... for the first time ever, I was able to keep my foot off the ground on doing Warrior 3 and Half Moon! Now, they weren't the best form and I didn't have my leg parallel to the ground, but my glutes were able to tolerate the 3 minutes of so on each side. Progress is cool!

Phase 3, Week 4, Day 7

2009-08-10T16:11:00.000-07:00

Not much to put here. I did Stretch-X instead of just having a rest day, in the afternoon. My hammies were a little sore to start, but I had a great workout. No sweat, and no impact on today's DVD.

Phase 3, Week 4, Day 6

2009-08-08T19:32:00.000-07:00

It wasn't until the late morning that I began Kenpo-X. As usual, my glutes and hamstrings were sore and not fun to stretch, so I put off doing at as long as I could. But as usual too, my warm up and the way the DVD eases into the movements, I was tired, but didn't have any problems getting my legs up in the air.

On the fun scale, I think Kenpo-X is a good routine (I still prefer the weights because of what my goals are), and I think my punches are actually good enough to carry me in a fight, for at least 10 seconds or so! Tomorrow will be a stretch day ... have I ever written before that I like stretching?!

Phase 3, Week 4, Day 5

2009-08-07T17:58:00.001-07:00

A short while after work, I completed the last "Legs & Back" and "Ab Ripper X" of my first 90 day program! And man ... am I dog tired! The main workout today wasn't the most fun for me, and following it with Ab Ripper X was extremely tough. It's amazing, because when I did the Ab's on Wednesday all by itself at the end of the day, I felt like a world beater! I did everything easier than normal, and felt Tony was doggin' it! But today, that just wasn't the case. I can barely type this with my eyes open, and my mouth dry.

And right before the last set of pull ups in the main workout, I had to take a break and walk around the house for a little bit. By the time I got back, my heart rate was down, and I did 12 switch grip pull ups, which was what I did a week ago, so at least I didn't do less! Kind of sad, that I'm done with the weights and Ab Ripper X part of the program ... but it's all about having faith in the system.

Phase 3, Week 4, Day 4

2009-08-06T17:41:00.000-07:00

Day 4 of every week consists of Yoga-X. When I'm done, I'm always impressed how fast 90 minutes go. It's really only 45 minutes of Yoga stuff, and it really isn't until the last 6 minutes of it that I struggle. I'm happy Tony says it's advanced stuff, because half-moon and reverse half-moon I really suck at! But one thing is for sure, it works my glutes better than anything else. It gets the burn, and I try to hold the position as long as possible (sloppy though they may be!) but I always fail to stick it through.

On the plus side however, I excell at the stretching, and have even gotten better at balance poses. I worked out in my hotel room from about 6:00 to 7:30, so I should be a little more warm and flexible. I can also feel the increased mass in my shoulders and biceps when I worked out today. It's a little harder to hold my arms up straight in the air ... but that's cool! However I decide to continue the program when I'm done with day 90, I think I'll keep Yoga as part of my routine.

Phase 3, Week 4, Day 3

2009-08-05T18:13:00.000-07:00

For today's entree, I had one "Back and Biceps" in the morning, and then did "Ab Ripper X" in the evening. I've done abs the past few times at night, and it seems to go much better. Not only does it free up a bit more time in the morning, but I'm much stronger with the ab exercises at night, especially with keeping my legs up in the air for "scissors" and "mason twists".

I still have to do better not eating junk food. Less than 2 weeks til picture day!

Phase 3, Week 4, Day 2

2009-08-04T15:28:00.001-07:00

Plymetrics-X was the workout this morning, and there's nothing new. It kicked my butt, and I had to push myself to keep up and finish with the kids on the DVD. Is there ever a point when the leaps and jumps get easier to do?!

Phase 3, Week 4, Day 1

2009-08-03T15:23:00.000-07:00

I'm a little nervous coming down the homestretch. This is the last week for me to do some weights with next week being a recovery week before the end. Today was the "Chest, Shoulders, and Triceps" DVD. I can't say there was anything outstanding to report on. It's still tough to finish, but I still found myself doing one or two more reps on some exercises. I even bumped up the weight on a few, and did fewer reps.

I did the Ab-Ripper X in the evening because of a lack of time in the morning. I liked doing it then because I wasn't tired from another workout already, and I worked harder and longer than I usually did. I wonder though if this is better or worse - doing more reps when I'm less tired, or doing fewer reps when I'm pooped from the previous workout?

Phase 3, Week 3, Day 6

2009-08-01T20:45:00.000-07:00

Late this afternoon, I did Kenpo-X, finishing my workouts for the week. I'm finding it easier to do, but still get pooped and get my heart rate up there. It's up to me to continue to throw hard punches, get my kicks higher, and move faster to make the workout a good one. I can see how others could not work harder and then say the DVDs aren't good for them anymore, but I say hogwash. There are so many different levels to take this system. It works for people no matter what your level, and I'd recommend it.

Tomorrow, I think I'm going to just take a rest day. I've always done the X-Stretch, but I've got enough going on that I think I'll live. I know I'll still feel like I'm slacking, but I'm mature enough and have been doing fitness stuff for long enough to know rest is very important, especially when my 39th birthday is just around the corner!

Phase 3, Week 3, Day 5

2009-07-31T16:48:00.000-07:00

"Legs and Back" and "Ab-Ripper X" were on the agenda this morning, and I did them with the usual discomfort but satisfaction of a job well done when I was finished. Pull-ups are always the main method of working the back with P90X, and I continue to be amazed at the progress I've made with those. Where I could do no more than 5 pullups when I was fully rested, I can now rip off 15 in a row at the beginning of my workout! All total, I do in the neighborhood of 100 pullups by the end of the workout. How cool is that?! I recall my youngest son doing 22 in a row when he was wrestling and working out more regularly. I think I could now beat him in a contest!

Phase 3, Week 3, Day 4

2009-07-30T18:45:00.000-07:00

I did this week's Yoga-X session on Wednesday night, because I have Toastmasters early on Thursday (4th day of week). It turned out to be a great workout because it was the evening and I'm always more flexible at the end of the day. On the hamstring stretches my nose was nearly to the ground, let alone past my knee! Plough had my toes back to the ground, and I even held Warrior 3 much longer than I have before ... though still not keeping the leg in the air for the full three minutes on each side!

Many folks cry about the Yoga workout during P90X, and I know 90 minutes of working out can seem daunting. In addition, it's not high impact, with slow movements, but Yoga really is only 45 minutes of it. When Tony says, "You just did that!" it makes it all worth it in my head mentally, regardless whether it's a prerecored DVD and he says it if I finish it or not!

Phase 3, Week 3, Day 3

2009-07-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

At the hotel tonight, I did Plyometrics, which was originally supposed to be in the morning of Day 2, but because I'm without dumbbells on the road, I switched, and then did plyo on the evening of Day 2, instead of the morning of Day 3 ... just because! I'll finish with Ab-Ripper X in the morning tomorrow ... just because ... I dog tired! ;o)

It was a good plyometrics session this evening, and mostly because it was in the evening. I've really learned how much better my fitness and flexibility is in the evening than in the morning. I've always done workouts, especially running/cycling/swimming in the AM, simply because it was the easiest way to fit in into my schedule and not interfere with family time. I still hit maximum heart rate at many different parts, but I also felt I could go a little longer than the did in the DVD at times. I also felt a little sore and lactic acid due to this morning's workout, but I forgot all about it after the warmup ... cool!

Phase 3, Week 3, Day 2

2009-07-28T15:35:00.000-07:00

I switched the workout around this morning because I'll be out of town tonight, and won't have access to weights. So, I did Shoulders/Arms (making it two weights days in a row), and will do Plyometrics at the hotel in my room. I didn't find the workout tougher than usual, which I thought might be the case since I deviated from the plan! I still "worry" that I won't maximize my results by not doing what Tony Horton recommends, but I gotta do what I gotta do!

Phase 3, Week 3, Day 1

2009-07-27T16:12:00.000-07:00

Chest and Back was the workout for this morning, and I really felt fatigued but made it through it all. I also continued to see small improvements in most exercises increasing either my weight or number of reps. I finished with Ab-Ripper X, but was in mostly a zone as I all of a sudden hit the end of the workout and couldn't remember much of doing the middle parts!

I'm wondering about the fatigue thing, however. Even though did the Stretch-X yesterday, I also worked in Great-Grandma's yard so maybe that had something to do with it. I also wonder if the intensity of this program is wearing on me ... maybe I need a good vacation, again!!! I also realized that this is the last time that I'll do "Chest and Back" this cycle. Next week is another set of DVD's for the shoulder/back/arms/chest stuff, and the week after that is the "recovery" week which then has the ending pictures!

Phase 3, Week 2, Day 7

2009-07-26T19:23:00.001-07:00

As usual, I chose to make today's workout the Stretch-X, instead of a rest day. I did in the morning when I had time, rather in the evening where I would be more flexible, but what the hay! I did ok, but I wonder what I'm really getting out of it because I know I am more flexible than what I'm able to do - at least in the morning that is.

Nevertheless, I have 3 more weeks until I finish P90X. I'm anxious to see how those final pictures will look, but I'm still having the same thoughts of not seeing much progress versus my last update. I'm ok with those thoughts though. It usually will keep me committed to making the best happen that I can ... and that's all I can ask for of myself.

Phase 3, Week 2, Day 6

2009-07-25T08:35:00.000-07:00

Doing Kenpo-X today, I realized I am in such a good rhythm for doing all these workouts. That doesn't mean I'm highly motivated to begin them each and every time, but I feel an obligation to stick to them. I have set out a goal, and I've stuck to the predetermined method by others for what I should do. That's a good feeling.

Overall, it was a good workout. I felt my legs consistently getting the kicks up (much better than a week ago) and my heart rate was up near 160 bpm at the high points and never got much above that. It's a great upper and lower body workout, that is a great cardio program as well. The fact that I've got a little bit of a karate background too helps me understand the moves and how I can adapt to whatever Tony Horton is doing on my tv.

Phase 3, Week 2, Day 5

2009-07-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

I don't really care for the workouts that work on the legs, therefore Legs/Back today wasn't my favorite. In addition, I find pullups difficult and tiring, and since this is the main workout for any day that has to do with "Back" ... it wasn't my most fun time. Still, I'm really enjoying the DVDs, I like Tony's sense of humor, and I find myself saying the lines along with others that are familiar with P90X!

With all that said, I've stuck with it all this far, and I'm better for it! I nearly every part of every workout, I'm better than when I've begun, and I expecially see the difference in myself physically. I was staning in front of the fridge tonight, and I happen to have rubbed my hand over my belly. and I can feel the "tightness" in my stomach. I used to have a nice little layer of jelly on my outside ... but it's tighter. Noticing these things for the first time is a good feeling that makes me appreciate the hard work and progress!

Phase 3, Week 2, Day 4

2009-07-23T21:23:00.000-07:00

Yoga-X is what I did tonight because I had Toastmasters early in the AM which moves things around in my day. But the good thing about an evening workout is that I'm always more flexible and stronger, and with yoga ... that's a good thing!

While I still struggled in the usual areas, I think I am improving ever so slightly in Warrior 3, and all those poses where I'm standing on one leg, leaning forward about 45 minutes into the DVD. And when it comes time for hamstring stretches ... well ... I am even more flexible than when I wrestled in high school. I love it, and it improves my confidence in my physical appearance. I'm going to have the kids take a picture one of these days when I'm really good and flexible so I can post it, and then look back in the future and marvel at what I "used to be able to do!"

Phase 3, Week 2, Day 3

2009-07-22T09:19:00.000-07:00

This morning was Back and Biceps, a fun workout for me. Whether it actualy is true or not, I feel stronger, bigger and more ripped when I'm done. To be honest, I take a little more time to examine my progress in the mirror too! At first when I write that, I think, "man, he must be egotistical and too into his physical appearance." Or at least that what I think others may think. But seriously, this is what I've been working for! I looked at myself before P90X, and wanted to make progress on my physical body, which in the past I know has always made me stronger mentally too. I feel better about myself. Why should I not be able to think positively about the way I look?!

Anyway, that's just me thinking to myself ... just ignore me!

Phase 3, Week 2, Day 2

2009-07-21T11:11:00.000-07:00

As usual, Plyometrics kicked my butt! At times, I'm watchng the clock real close, not knowing if I can make it through a segment without stopping for a break. Other times, I feel a little good that I might be doing things a little better than previous sessions. It's tough to say. I just don't like the jumping and squatting part of it, but I know the calorie burning part of it is what I need.

I worked out without a shirt as usual, and felt a little flabby in the middle. I think some of it is mental, because I ate some of Jared's brownies he made last night and this morning. I bend over and see the rolls that I don't like. I also find it hard sometimes not to eat the foods I know aren't on any approved diet known to man, but I eat them anyway and feel guilty.

Phase 3, Week 2, Day 1

2009-07-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

Chest/Shoulders/Triceps was the workout for the day. Basically a lot of different pushups, dumbell raises with the shoulders, and different types of tricep extensions. I like this workout because whether I am or not, I feel bigger and more ripped when I'm done! I worked until exhaustion for most exercises which is the point to the session, and stressting quality not quantity.

I finished with Ab Ripper-X, which went about as usual ... tough, but sweaty at the end. Maybe a litle progress, as evidenced by it being a teensy-weensy bit easier!

Phase 3, Week 1, Day 7

2009-07-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

I finished the week with a so-so session of Stretch-X. I say so-so because after doing Legs/Back on Saturday morning, and Kenpo-X on Saturday night ... my glutes and upper hamstrings weren't in the mood for a full stretching session. Nevertheless, I made it through the workout none the worse for wear because there isn't any impact in working out. I was never able to hit my full stretch like I have in the past few weeks, but it still felt relaxing by the time I was done.

Phase 3, Week 1, Day 6

2009-07-18T20:23:00.000-07:00

Kenpo-X! I don't ever recommend doing Kenpo-X on the same day as you also do Legs and Back, but I had no choice if I wanted to stay on track. My kicks weren't as strong or high as they normally are, but I made it through and had some high points such as my punches and blocks, which I found to be as strong as ever. I don't wear a heart rate monitor, but I don't think my HR would have been as high as it has been on average during this workout in the past. Maybe I should invest in a cheap one in the near future?

I also had a nice dinner at Outback Steakhouse with the family. Considering my belly was fairly full from bread, Victoria's filet (7 oz.), sweet potato, caesar salad, and a red bull (that's right!) ... I'm surprised I didn't get any cramps.

Phase 3, Week 1, Day 5

2009-07-18T08:58:00.000-07:00

"Legs and Back" followed by Ab Ripper-X was the workout on this Saturday morning that I completed. I can't say I was completely motivated to do the session today, but I pushed and made it through. Probably the hardest part was the pull ups. Even though I've probably seen the biggest percentage increase in improvement with this exercise, it sucks! I don't use a chair, or get any help at all ... it's just me pulling up 170 pounds of me as many times as possible. Judging by the pictures, I know I'm reaping the benefits from my back profile, but that doesn't make doing them any more fun!

The Ab Ripper routine is interesting too. Even though I know my form has improved a lot, and I can do each routine well (though still now keeping my feet off the ground during scissors or mason twists), I'm pooped at the end everytime!

Back Pose 3 - Comparison So Far!

2009-07-18T04:45:00.000-07:00

Here is the final of my before and after (so far!) of my P90X pictures. I like the progress I'm getting with my shoulders, and in my upper back. I can also see a slimming of my waist and love handles ... woo hoo!

All in all remember these things:
*At Day 0, I had just completed the 2009 OKC Marathon so I was working out routinely (even if it was just running).
*I workout about one hour per day, and don't use any fancy equipment ... adjustable dumbells and a pull up bar.
*I'm doing this watching DVDs in my office at home! Don't tell me that P90X is just another infomercial!

Phase 3, Week 1, Day 4

2009-07-17T21:42:00.000-07:00

I had to do today's Yoga-X workout on Friday evening, because when I spent the night out of town on Thursday, I forgot to bring my DVD player for my computer with me ... sigh.

But it turned out to be a great workout today. I still suck at Half Moon and Warrior 3, but as long as Tony says it is advanced, then I'm cool with that! I think I even set a record as far as my flexibility too! Working my hamstrings, and doing the frog were great. I think it's official that I am the most flexible than I even have been!

Back Pose 2 - Comparison so Far!

2009-07-17T04:38:00.000-07:00

I'm not seeing as much progress in this pose as I did in Back Pose 1, except for a bit of fat loss ... but I'll still take it! Don't ever say P90X is just another infomercial!

Back Pose 1 - Comparison So Far!

2009-07-16T04:35:00.000-07:00

Here are shots from Day 0, Day 30, and Day 60. I never expected to get much from my back views. And remember that Day 0 was taken right after I trained for and ran the 2009 Okahoma City Marathon!

Phase 3, Week 1, Day 3

2009-07-15T20:28:00.000-07:00

Shoulders and Arms was the workout for today, and I loved it! It's probably my favorite because these are the best "guy" muscles to work on and hope to see results for. Guys like their shoulders, biceps and triceps to look good ... admit it!

The one thing that is a pain however, is the writing down of reps/weight for each exercise. I've always kept track of my progress this way and will always continue it. It's just that it makes it harder to keep up with the video. I had the pause and/or rewind multiple times.

Finishing up - as usual for days 1, 3 and 5 of all non-recovery weeks, I finished up with Ab Ripper X. I saw a little bit of progress today too, as far as getting closer to keeping up with everything they do on my tv, though I don't think I'll ever keep my heel up during "scissors" and "mason twists!"

Front Pose 3 - Comparison So Far!

2009-07-15T04:28:00.000-07:00

Ok ... here's where I get to show off the guns! ;o) I'm beginning of thinking of staying hairless on my chest when I'm done with the program. Is the stigma of a man shaving his chest too much to overcome?! Should I care anyway?!

Phase 3, Week 1, Day 2

2009-07-14T19:52:00.000-07:00

Today was plyometrics and I still have one question yet to be answered ... will this workout every get easier?! My goodness, my heartrate still gets to the max (about 160) for me to be able to work hard, and I sweat and drink water like an animal! I do feel less sore afterwards, but man ... like Tony calls this workout, it IS the mother of all P90X workouts! It's a struggle to do everything in the video every single time so far!

Front Pose 2 - Comparison So Far!

2009-07-14T04:25:00.000-07:00

Again, I like the progress I'm seeing in"Front-2" that I saw in yesterday's "Front-1." I'm beginning to see a little definition in my belly. Maybe I should have been wearing my old blue running shorts all along!

Front Pose 1 - Comparison So Far!

2009-07-13T15:52:00.000-07:00

Here are the comparisons for Day 0, Day 30, and Day 60!

I'm very happy with the progress. As I've said all along, my main goal has been to shore up my midsection/core. I'll post other comparisons in the coming days.

Phase 3, Week 1, Day 1

2009-07-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

With much anticipation (seriously!), I began the final phase with Chest and Back - lots of pushups and pullups. As I was writing my reps/weights for each section, I was shocked too! I have gotten so much stronger too! I'm doing maybe 40% more pushups, and I'm doing double the amount of pullups I was doing during phase 1, even at the third week.

Progress, perseverence ... cool stuff!

Phase 2, Week 4, Day 7

2009-07-12T20:00:00.000-07:00

The last day of phase 2, and I did the relaxing Stretch-X. This one as with most of the workouts, go by so fast. I think it's amazing when I'm done that I say to myself, "Dang, that hour was a whole hour!" As I've said before, I like the stretching. It's official that I am as flexible or more than when I wrestled in high school. I especially like to do the hamstring stretches because I am now going past my knees with my face, and my legs are completely straight - no bent knees.

Tomorrow, I begin the third and final phase and I have four hard weeks of weights and plymetrics again. I know it's tough as nails when I'm doing it, but I've missed it all week. Mentally, it feels like I'm losing the muscle mass that I've gained and with my vacation where I wasn't hardcore, and this past "recovery" week. We shall see after I take the Day 60 pictures and compare!

Phase 2, Week 4, Day 6 (BONUS)

2009-07-11T20:14:00.000-07:00

Today was a bonus workout, Core Synergistics. It's a bonus because I was a day ahead this week, and only at a stretch for this weekend. I felt like I was going to lose momentum if I only did that, so I threw in the best all around workout that I had this week in on Saturday evening. I'm glad I did.

I did the best I've ever done in this workout as far as number of reps - e.g. 40 split level pushups at the beginning, and 10 prison pushups (those are tough for me at that point in the DVD!) Tomorrow morning I'll do the Stretch-X before going to church. I like to stretch!

Phase 2, Week 4, Day 6

2009-07-10T21:34:00.001-07:00

This morning was one of my best Yoga-X workouts. I still struggled with "Warrior 3," but I continue to feel strong on the other parts. I even did "Wheel" for the entire minute-plus for the first time ever!!!

I'm only supposed to have one more Stretch-X for the weekend since I'm a day ahead of schedule, so I may wind up adding a Core Synergistics tomorrow, and do the Stretch-X on Sunday. Then, I start up phase 3 on Monday!

Phase 2, Week 4, Day 5

2009-07-09T18:53:00.000-07:00

I did today's workout after work, because I was up way early for Toastmasters. Today's venture was Core Synergistics, a fairly fun workout because it really works the total body, while having a focus on ... the core ... which is likely the number one area anyone would like to improve, me included.

Compared to the Core Synergistics workout I did at the beginning of the week, I was able to pull off more reps for most of the exercises and none of them were less. Again, is it because there is a small improvement, it wasn't a morning workout or a combination of the two?

Phase 2, Week 4, Day 4

2009-07-08T16:55:00.000-07:00

From the comfort of my hotel room, I did the 4th workout of the recovery week, Stretch-X. Pretty easy as there is no impact, no sweat, and just a little increase in heart rate. The good news is that I was a little more flexible than usual for a morning workout ... because I'm getting more flexible, or because I did Kenpo-X last night?

Also, I'm beginning to pick up on the little "flaws" or "bloopers" in the videos due to seeing the mulitple times by now. For example, in a few spots he says we're going to do 10 or 20 reps, and we end up doing more or less. We also sometimes stretch one side of our bodies more than the other two. But ... ain't no thang!

Phase 2, Week 4, Day 3

2009-07-07T19:23:00.000-07:00

Technically I did today's "Day 3" workout on the evening of "Day 2" but I think that's alright. On Thursday mornings, I get up real early to go to Toastmasters so I'm not able to do P90X then. If I can double up one day, I'll still be on schedule by the time I get to Friday morning.

I did today's Kenpo-X from the convenience of my hotel room, a first for me, on my computer. I also was able to watch myself for the first time via the mirror on the closet. Overall, I had a really good workout. I can tell my conditioning is very much improved for this stuff compared to when I first started. My punches and kicks were fairly strong, but there's still one thing that bugs me ... my midsection. From the mirror, I don't even think it looks as good as my Day 30 pics, but I'm happy with the progress in my legs and arms. I'm even beginning to see some definition in my quads, which will never show up on the pictures, and I'm not planning on shaving them either (although I did when I used to cycle and triathlon).

Phase 2, Week 4, Day 2

2009-07-07T15:44:00.001-07:00

In the second day of this recovery week, I took on the Core Synergistics DVD. I did pretty good overall, and I forgot some of the overbody workouts that it had when I did it at the end of phase 1. There's not too much to report here, other than it is still a good, hard workout that I accomplished by 7:30 am today.

Phase 2, Week 4, Day 1

2009-07-06T10:42:00.001-07:00

Today was the first day of my recovery week ... Yoga-X! Because it's 90 minutes long, I had to set my alarm earlier than normal, but all in all it was a good workout. I was more flexible than yesterday morning, and the only part I have trouble with still is sticking it out when I do the "Warrior 3" position. It's tough on my glutes to stand on one leg for that long in the superman position!

I still wonder if not doing any weights this week will hurt any muscle growth I've gained so far. I guess I'll just trust the process!

Phase 2, Week 3, Day 7

2009-07-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

Today finishes the "tough" part of Phase 2, and I was offered a rest day or Stretch-X ... I opted for the latter. I've always liked stretching, ever since high school, primarily because I think my body is naturally good at it. I can recall getting positive comments back to when I wrestled in HS.

Nevertheless, this week was tough. Maybe because I wasn't "full go" last week when I was on vacation at the Outer Banks, but maybe also because I'm doing P90X! Either way, today's workout was in the AM, so I wasn't as flexible as I would be if I had done this in the evening. But ... I did it, it was only stretching, and I'm now ready for the "recovery" week.

My goal this coming week, is to eat better, and really do well at the cardio/stretching/balance workouts that make up the recovery weeks. At the end of the week, it'll be time to take the Day 60 pictures ... gotta make my core section better!

Phase 2, Week 3, Day 6

2009-07-04T13:22:00.000-07:00

I finished Kenpo X this morning and feel exhausted and sore. After doing Legs and Back yesterday, the lactic acid is evident in my glutes and hams. Even though I am repeating this week (after vacation when I only did non-weight routines), I still did Kenpo last week. It's amazing that I'm this far into P90X, and I still get the sores! Even though my areas are getting multiple workouts each week, I'm starting to buy into this muscle confusion thing.

Back Pose 3 at Day 0 VS. Back Pose 3 at Day 30

2009-07-03T18:12:00.000-07:00

Boy, sure does look I've gotten shorter! I think I see a little bit more definition in my arms and shoulders.

Back Pose 2 at Day 0 VS. Back Pose 2 at Day 30

2009-07-03T18:10:00.001-07:00

Again, not much noticable difference, except maybe at the "handles." Maybe my back's a little tighter.

Back Pose 1 at Day 0 VS. Back Pose 1 at Day 30

2009-07-03T18:08:00.001-07:00

I can't really see much difference here. Maybe a little loss at the love handles.

Front Pose 3 at Day 0 VS. Front Pose 3 at Day 30

2009-07-03T17:54:00.001-07:00

Front Pose 2 at Day 0 VS. Front Pose 2 at Day 30

2009-07-03T17:52:00.001-07:00

Front Pose 1 at Day 0 VS. Front Pose 1 at Day 30

2009-07-03T17:40:00.000-07:00

Here is Pose #1 from the front, with my arms at my side. Yes, I shaved my chest, but no big deal. I used to shave my chest and legs when I was doing triathlons. But my kids think it's kind of odd!

The way I look at it, if I'm going to be busting my butt for 90+ days, I want to see the results and not hide them under my fur!