Its that time again.

After a few more weeks out the game, its time to get my shit together and get my arse in gear.
The whole P90X monica was #Fit4Forty, and with that milestone only 90 odd days away, there is no better time to get back in the groove.

At this point I would love to say I'm pumped, motivated and ready for the challenge, but I'm really not lol.
I'm sure this time next week I will be all fired up, but for now, there is no real enthusiasm. Other than the bit of self pride left in me that reminds me that I set myself a challenge.

So, here we go again. 3 months of interesting changes to my daily activities, and let's see what becomes of it all. As ever the dynamic has changed somewhat, but let's see what I can do with it.
Regards

Michael
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Groin strains and shoulder pulls.

What a great combination to go into another week of training with. A slight tweek training last night in the middle of a twist game me a nice little sensation in my groin, maybe stomach (hard to tell)
Meanwhile, working shoulder and triceps hard, by the time I woke this morning my right shoulder is pretty tight, stiffening up my neck too.

Other than that, training is still going really well, and I am VERY happy with myself for my commitment to the program, and for my progress.

Just thought I would throw this entry into the mix, its been a while so just wanted to touch base and show I'm still working hard at it.

Arms, shoulders, back, legs, all exploding when I'm training. I love the feeling. Just not the strains.
Regards

Michael
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Week off!

Week 4 aka rest week has been a total blowout, with gout having me out of action for the main part of it.
For the last 2 days I will probably just sit it out, and start Phase 2 clean next week, skipping Rest Week totally.
I may give Kenpo a shot tomorrow depending how things work out, but either way, the gout has passed, the fire still burns hot, and I'm ready to dive straight in on Monday.

I feel I have cheated a little, not pushed hard enough, but the reality is, the muscle strain caused by gout needs time to sort itself out too, its not just about the foot. So I will bnot be too hard on myself about it.

The weekend is ahead, let's see what that brings, whatever happens, clean eating starts again Monday, as I kinda cheated a bit this week lol

Right, that's me updated.
Regards

Michael
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Quick update

And I mean quick.
Round3 Week3 Day3... Loving it and loving being back in the routine. The burn, the buzz the ache. Its great to have my drive back, and to once again be able to see the results starting take shape so soon.

A few other people still plugging away at P90X with me, a few others have fallen off the wagon. So well done to those who are hanging in there. Only 10 weeks to go lol

Right, arms pumped, shoulders tight, and off to work.

Work hard people and Dig Deeper Dammit
Regards

Michael
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Day 3

Hardly into the program again, and already my mindset and physical drive is changing for the better. I love training, always have, always will. But overcoming the initial hurdle to get going has always been my biggest battle.
Just getting the steam in the boiler up to temperature is my biggest struggle. What I love about the structure of P90 is knowing what I HAVE to do, and not being able to just take it easy for the day.

Suddenly getting up to walk the dogs was a piece of cake, and knowing I have a routine to get up for makes waking and rising early easy.

That's not to say that the first 2 days have not taken their toll. Legs were aching like crazy, as are my chest and tri's. Legs are so tight at the mo that to lay down for tricep extentions and side tri rise, I had to kneel then lay lol. Pathetic I know.

But all in all it feels great to be active again, and I am happy to report shoulders and arms was not too bad today. Trained to exhaustion of course, but at reasonable weight and resistance, and good clean reps.

Yoga tomorrow is going to be a nightmare, but I already have a plan to adapt where needed, so not going to over do it, not just yet anyway.

Have a good day, and train hard if you are training.
Regards

Michael
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First time back on Plyo

So, now I remember what it feels like to be new to Plyo. Well almost anyway. Knowing the movements helps a lot. But after a few weeks away from training, it was a hard slog to get all the way through the routine.
I'm not shy and won't deny taking a couple of timeouts during this session, but this is a positive.
When I first tried Plyo it took me 2 or 3 goes to manage to complete it. This time around, although the exhaustion was similar, I am more confident in knowing what I can really achieve, and also know that short breaks will recharge me enough to continue and complete. So that's what I did.

Thankfully I didn't notice any issue with my hip/groin, so unless its going to freeze up later as my body recovers, it looks like a good sign.

Feels good to have got up and got stuck into Plyo again. I had almost forgotten what shakes from exhaustion felt like lol.

During the calf stretch in the cool down though I did notice how tight my upper half was from yesterdays workout, so Yoga is going to be fun on Thursday, can't wait for that, much!

Also on the walk to the station I worked out I have 5 months now til I'm 40, so will complete this round, and will be able to carry on at a steady pace there after. Plan is still to be in shape to be snowboarding on my birthday, so there is a real goal!

Right I'm gonna go curl up under my desk and eat sensible foods now. Have a good day whatever you are doing.
Regards

Michael
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I'm back!

Well its time for round 3 so I thought I would officially say that I'm starting it today.
I believe Amit is starting Round 2 today also, and Noel starting another round of Insanity, so it sounds like its a good time for all.

With the Olympics being over with, my normal hours resume at work, making it far more manageable to get my usual P90 morning in without affecting the quality of the session.

Slight changes to the program this time will include the audio off, and some high energy music playing, no recording reps and weights, and taking it a little easier on myself. No joint injuries planned this time.

Working with an ongoing hip strain at the moment though, not sure what's caused or causing it, but it aches like hell till warmed up, so the dog walks first are crucial.

So Day 1 done, surprised at how in shape I still am, which is rather pleasing. Cleaner eating, and more motivated to train and stay active, so let's see how we get on. No start pictures this time, not much has changed other than tattoos and tan lol.

So let's see how my hip/groin lasts with Plyo tomorrow.

Work hard people!
Regards

Michael
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Feeling flaky

....and I'm not afraid to admit it.
First few sessions since re-starting are really taking their toll on me. However armed with previous knowledge I know not to push too hard. Pacing myself and making sure the impact levels are right, and splitting workouts where needed is the way to go.

This morning after the dog walks my legs were fatigued. So when I started yoga it was always going to be a bit of a battle. Instead of pretending to do the moves, and only giving 50%, I worked to the point where form was suffering, and stopped there. Once my legs have rested I will finish the routine this evening..... Before walking the dogs this time.

I know I push people hard, and to anyone in TeamSnaz who thinks I'm going soft, think again! But there is a point for anyone where training is pointless, and that is when form suffers. There is NO point in going through the motions if you cannot commit to it and dig deep to make those moves beautiful.

Missing a workout is not an option, but training wisely is, and that's what I am doing today. To anyone else training, who is struggling with the heat etc, drop the intensity if needed, stay hydrated and listen to your body NOT your mind. Your mind will want to quit a lot sooner than your body, trust me.

So today is a flaky day, but will end with perfect form, and beautiful yoga.

Dig in people, I know its hard, I know it hurts, and I know all too well that you will sweat like mad..... But its SO worth it. Trust me, I'm a doctor!

Happy workouts people.
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And so it begins.... BEAST MONTH !

After a week or so away from training to let my shoulders recover from the battering they took in the sea a week ago at Cocoa Beach, it was time to get stuck back into things. And at the same time tackle any weight I may have gained from being off the boil on both diet and exercise.

The answer, well that's simple, a beast month on P90X. Strict diet, as much exercise as possible, and giving it 100% every day. My partners in this adventure are Amit and Carly from my #TeamSnaz Twitter group. All agreeing to give it everything we have got in the tanks. While putting as little fuel back in the tanks as possible.
Strict stripped down diets of our own choosing, and for me my days will hopefully consist of Dog walks, AM training (usual P90X), then in the evening after work, a double up of P90X in the form of Cardio X, and then the usual dog walks. So im hoping that this will really give me a nice kickstart back into the routine. With regards to food, yesterday I had an almighty blowout of food, and went to bed stuffed to the brim. From today the intake is totally different. Back to tuna, a bit of cereal, some chicken or fish, and a protein shake. I have yet to get myself some Maximuscle shakes to make up the evening intake, hopefully pick that up this evening.

So Day 1, agony, disaster and a struggle. Amazing how much stamina and form you can lose in a week! Push-ups were fine, can pump them out without thinking twice these days, but towards the end of the program I was really feeling it, and nausea to match! Needless to say when it came to Ab Ripper time I was really struggling. I am ashamed to say that I didn't manage as much in ARX as I wanted to. That said, I stuck to my guns and gave it all I had to offer, without over stepping the sensible line for the first day back.

I'm happy with what I managed today, but at the same time im excited to see exactly what I can deliver under duress. Time will tell I guess, but in the meantime I shall plough on with the plan, and see if double-ups are manageable for the entire 4 weeks. They are only on alternate days, with breaks from double days. Given the distance and time exercising the dogs too, there wont be much time left for anything else in the day.
Positive thing is, if I can manage daily double up, then there is time to replace the double up with Tai Cheng, woohoo!

Dig deep team, and give it all you got!


As for other stuff....
Amit, Carly, Jenny, Jason, Rob, Lee, Paul..... Keep going guys, you are all doing well. If things are getting easier, then its time to change it up and make it harder again. Looking forwards to training with Paul some time soon, and kicking his arse a little bit.
And David and Jess, when that gout passes, I look forwards to you guys getting on the wagon with us all and joining in the fun that is P90X. Its worth it, honest :)

POW!

Just another vanity shot.
So happy to have some definition back in my arms.
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Somewhat disappointed to say the least!

Not in myself mind you, more with BeachBody, the mighty home of P90X itself.
A comment was made recently that in a conference it had been mentioned that the P90x program is 70% nutrition and 30% physical effort. And that anyone not following the P90X nutrition guide was NOT in fact doing P90X at all.

Now I am not for one second suggesting that nutrition is NOT important, of course it is. Making sure the body has the right ingredients to bake up the body cake we are looking for is a key part to success. But we are all baking different cakes here. Some want to be ultra lean, some are building muscle, some just want to get tight an tone. In reality all goals need different plans. More importantly here we need to remember that we are ALL different. Two identical looking people can need totally different nutrition to achieve the same goal.

Our bodies all deal with our intake differently, with some putting on a pound as soon as they look at chocolate, and others able to live on fast food, yet remain lean. So to put such emphasis on ONE nutrition guide is rather amateur if you ask me, let alone unprofessional. Especially when its coming from the same company who made such an epic program as P90X. The way the program is presented makes you feel motivated, inspired and driven. Realising you too can achieve your goals with a bit of hard work.
So to suddenly say that you CAN'T achieve these goals if you don't follow a nutrition guide is a joke.

I realise of course this is NOT black and white, and they are not that blinkered. In reality what they are getting at is broken into two separate things. Firstly, that nutrition in general IS important. Certain groups of vitamins, proteins, carbs etc need to be observed. Making sure you get the right levels is going to make a difference to your results. and secondly, that BeachBody sell a comprehensive range of diet and nutrition products which are part of the nutrition guide, and they would like you very much to buy. At the end of the day they are a company, and its good business sense to promote your products.

But please..... next time you decide to have a push on your products, a sales drive, and an awareness week... DON'T tell people that they are almost wasting their time by following your exercise programs without following your nutrition guides. Not only does it DE-motivate people (including me this morning) but its also bullshit! I have followed your wonderful program for 1 and a half rounds now, and have achieved almost every goal I set myself. I have tried to eat clean when I could, but have not refused myself anything (ok maybe bread and fried foods have been cut out).

If I could afford financially to follow a stricter nutritional plan I would, but given that my budget on a bad week allows me to eat little more than cereal and tuna, I don't think I will be spending £100 a month on Shakeology just yet.

To put it into perspective, when I read the statement last night I was shocked by it. While I could see its intentions, and its realities, I felt somewhat put down and like I had not achieved what I thought I had. Like I had thought I had completed an exam, only to find I forgot to do a whole section. When training this morning, when it came time to dig deep and push harder a little part of me just said 'why bother'. Was like my boss walking past me working flat out, and just whispering 'why bother, you're shit!'

Now I'm a grown man, and i have overcome far worse things in my life, so this certainly wont put me down. In fact if anything its inspired me now. To prove that there are cheaper products out there that will do the job just as well lol. When I return from my summer holiday, the push will begin to achieve the goals I set myself for Round 2 of P90X. In the meantime I am still left thanking you for creating such a good program to follow, and hope my results speak for themselves.
Bulkier, slimmer, healthier and feeling amazing.

Til next time, stick a BB protein bar in it !

PS, I put a belt on the smallest pair of jeans I own today because they are too loose.... PPS I had chocolate late night!

Ok quick switch up

After noticing joint aches etc, and having them subside during rest week, I have decided to switch it up again for Week 5. Dropping the weights and upping the reps. Finding the perfect balance to really make the muscles work, without impacting the joints too badly. Todays workout of Back and Biceps was proof enough that I have got the balance right.

Dropping weights by about 1/3, and upping the reps by the same proportions seems to be about right. The vest is sitting out some routines too at the mo, just to make sure my shoulder is right. Still being used for plyo, kenpo etc though.

The other small change is to ARX. Rather than wearing myself out hitting 25 on some then having nothing left for others, I set the goal to 20. 20 reps for ALL movements, no excuses. And today I did just that. All except for V-ups which I managed 16.

That small change has made a massive difference to results and drive. Damn I ache.

Otherwise, its Week5, Round 2 of P90X, and I'm still loving it as much as ever. Have shockingly dropped a few pounds too, which was a surprise. Still not monitoring the weight, but occasional weigh-ins throw up some nice surprises lol.

Have a good workout people.....

Snaz.....out!
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Found my stride again

After a few off days, and being plagued with a painful shoulder, all seems to be coming back together again now.
The recent crap weather has knocked my routine badly. Unable to walk the dogs in the rain, I have been putting my workout back and back until I was getting short on time. But the sun is back and so is the routine.

Week4 this week, so its 'rest' week, if you call cardio and yoga rest that is. But its a beautiful thing and challenges the body in so many ways. An extra round of plyo last night really showed how deep I can dig now if I really try. Sweating so much it was dripping off my nose every second or so. Amazing!

The rest week has been perfect for allowing my shoulder to rest a bit, although yoga doesn't go easy on the shoulder with all the vinyasa's and down-dogs, but I have managed.

So once back on the main routine, and back on Phase 2 I will be going a little easier on my shoulders. I think ego has got the better of me recently, and made me push muscles and joints a little too hard. This was never meant to be about bulking out or building mass, so the weights were always meant to stay within reason. So I have found my happy place now.

2 weeks into Phase 2 I fly out to Florida, so will be making sure I carry on out there too. Should be easy enough, and with the AC on maybe a bit easier. Although I do fancy some plyo by the pool one day. Could be fun eh.

Diet wise, I'm back to cereal, with one high carb and protein meal a day, chicken, rice, potato, beans etc. Seems to be working nicely, energy is there as is the weight management. Win win.

So been a long 12 hours. 8 miles with the dogs, Plyo, Core Syns, and will hit Kenpo tonight to finish off a great 24 hours. Along with another 4 miles with the dogs.

How's your day going?
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Strange

Weird how your perception of 'ok' changes as you do. 6 months or so ago I took this pic and thought I wasn't in bad shape. Now I look at it and think how overweight and tired I looked.

So glad I started the P90X journey when I did, its been life changing, and its far from over yet. As I embark on the VLCD part of things before I fly to Florida, I move the goalposts once again, and aim for excellence.

3 weeks of culinary hell will hopefully give some nice results, while at the same time, digging deeper still within to find the energy and strength to workout harder than ever before.

All to be #Fit4Forty
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Ouch

That's the sound I'm making a lot at the mo. Not badly, but I have some tension in my shoulder, neck and shoulder blade which is making some things quite miserable to do, especially yoga this morning. Try Vinyasa's with a tight shoulder, grrr! Very annoying to say the least.

But I plodded on all the same. All the time thinking and stressing about the shoulder which has really put me off my game. Unlike usual sessions, all I was doing was looking towards the end of the routine. Drained of mental energy before I even got started this morning, I was already doubting I should do it this morning, before the first sun salutation.

I feel good for digging deep and completing it, but at the same time I am mad that it was such a non-productive session. Rather than feeling relaxed, loose and restful, I just felt tired and exhausted, which is never a good thing.

So that's the negative of the day. I know I need to go and see Kevin at Back On Track soon, (my physio), and get things on the mend, as well as some movements and routines to keep things moving and relaxed for the future. This is after all only week 3 of P90X round 2, so I have a long way to go yet.

On another note, with 3 weeks before my trip to Florida, and curious to see what I can really achieve with this body of mine, I am reverting back to my previous diet, the cereal diet. I know I lose weight on it, and at the same time I know I have the energy to complete my workouts too, so it seems the sensible option. Really wanna knuckle down for the next 3 weeks.

In the meantime, things are still going well, still beating PB's weekly, still increasing the vest weight (could be an issue with the shoulder), and still seeing and feeling changes within my body on a weekly basis.

All I can say is thank heavens for #TeamSnaz who are keeping me pumped and motivated right now, and keeping me hungry and competitive. Thanks guys and gals
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I just needed to tell you...

I am a fighter, not a quitter. When a problem presents, I deal with it, an obstruction blocks my way, I over come it.
Failure is NOT an option, exhaustion is my motivation. Ache and soreness is my reward for my dedication, and fatigue is just a mark in the sand.

I challenged myself to complete P90X once, and along the way I picked up some workout buddies. YOU are my drive, my competition and encouragement in one. Second time around I want to motivate and coach, inspire and drive the way you say I did to you, to encourage you to feel the way I do, and to aim beyond my accomplishments.

Together, as part of a team, we can make changes to our lives and bodies we have only ever talked about, and I am proud to have dedicated and committed people working out with me.

I am determined, I am on the road to success. I WILL achieve my goals, and help you achieve yours too.


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Glad that's over.

OK for the record, playing catch up sucks, and by the time today came I was pooped beyond belief. Didn't think I could get this many muscles and joints aching at the same time without being seriously ill.

My legs for the first time in ages are exhausted and powerless. With dog walks and at least one routine a day pounding them, they have taken one hell of a beating this week. Same with my mid section, feels bruised and battered. The rest of my muscles just feel worn out but in a less painful way.

Kenpo this morning was an effort, and after the dog walks (with vest) to warm up I made the decision that Kenpo would be done WITHOUT the weighted vest on. And my golly it was a good decision.

Right now laying in a hot bath with muscle salts in feels like heaven, even though I'm sweating half to death here. If I'm awake enough after I am going to hit Stretch X too, just to get some mobility back in my joints and muscles.

Quitter, NO! I think I have proven that to myself this week alone. Exhausted having given it all, YES! And I'm not afraid to admit that for one second. To me it means I dug deeper than before, stayed focused and brung it to the program. With the rest of #TeamSnaz giving it all they have too, it was the only thing I could do.

My mind is already scared that the vest increases in weight again on Monday, but on a positive note, its Week3 which means a week without the vest in a weeks time, then a change of routines. Time is going so fast once again.

No weigh in's yet, and prob won't. I'm sure from the muscle growth I'm now seeing, that the number will be going up not down. So not that important. Intake this week has been a little sketchy, but given the activity levels I would say its been non harmful to me.

Thanks to Carly, Rob, Amit and Zak for being part of TeamSnaz, and keeping me going. Its so much more fun being able to discuss it as you all work through it.

I'm off for a stretch and a rest now (and some protein) Have a good long weekend, and remember keep pressing play, and digging deep!
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Finally caught up

That was a hectic week trying to catch up on myself and my program, but finally by Friday I have done it. Legs and Back this morning with ARX to finish.

Gave it my all, pretty much like last week, but obviously a slight increase in the vest weight. Needless to say, with the vest on Legs are a whole different ballgame, and I can sure feel I have worked out. This was of course straight after 4.5 miles with the dogs so not all bad.

Finishing up with ARX was a bit of a challange at one point. Mid way through Legs and Back I decided I didn't have it in me, so was left with 30 mins to convince myself that I WAS up to it. Of course by the end I just got stuck in. I hate moments of self doubt.

Todays workouts took a total of 3 tshirts, 3 pairs of boxers, 2 pairs of socks, 2 towels, 2 pints of fluids, and 500ml of recovery drink, plus the post workout protein drink. Whoever knew the carbon footprint for working out hard was so big lol.

So now its off to work to stretch my legs out a bit, and make the most of my freedom. Roll on tomorrow, Kenpo baby!
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Vanity strikes again

Just a quick couple of pics from Laura and Ivans wedding at the weekend.
First time I have seen a picture of me in something other than a tshirt or naked lol.

Personally I am VERY happy with how I am looking now.
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Beast mode

That feeling of being on fire, driven by an anger within, and being able to push yourself further than ever before. That was the angle of attack I took on Sharms today. Much grunting and groaning later, and a whole load of fluids lost, and my body is destroyed.

A level of exhaustion rarely experienced for me, and while debilitating, it is also quite rewarding. In a strange a weird way, its nice to know what you can actually do when you REALLY try. My arms are SO tired in fact that I struggled to shake up my protein shake, and am resting my arms on the table as I type this.

Shoulders and arms, what a beautiful workout. Especially this week, as I only did chest and back yesterday. So my whole torso is tight and aching. But as I always say, its a good ache. An ache that says 'good workout man' and and ache that reminds me which muscles control what functions in my day to day life.

The plan was to hit ABRX every time it was required this round, but because of the time constraints of this week, and the sheer level of exhaustion being experienced, I will be doing Abs tomorrow, and of course with yoga. Speaking of which, I am still playing catch-up so Yoga is this evening after work. Should be fun 8 hours after Sharms, and 24 hours after Plyo. Let's see what I have left to give.

Today I have to say I DID manage to beat most of my PB's on most movements. Weight and reps both raised, which will probably explain why I feel like this now lol.

Anyway, I have a protein drink to chug down, and a day to be getting on with, so better get on.

Message to my Tweeps on #TeamSnaz Dig deep people, and keep improving. Its its not aching, and you are not failing towards the end of sets, you aint trying hard enough.
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A quick update, back on track.

After 2 days out of the swing of things, today I jumped back in full throttle. The plan is to double up for a couple of days to get back on the pace of things.

So this morning I hit back and chest. Suffering a bit from quite extreme nausea, my routine was a little flawed. I still gave it my all none the less.
The vest was back, for the morning dog walks and for the morning P90X session. Weight now increased to 5.5kg.

So after fighting through the workout and having a lay down after I went to work. As the day progressed I got more and more excited about hitting Plyo this evening.

Coming home I got straight into it, and pushed myself seriously hard, refusing to drop a single rep, and to make each rep clean and count. 1 hour of jump training with the increased vest weight sure took its toll. The butt and thighs really take a beating.

By the end of it I was sweating like crazy, so made this lovely video lol http://youtu.be/WkOM4uoVHIA Be warned, its quite gross.

So that's me for today.

Tomorrow is Sharms (shoulders and arms) in the AM, with abrx I hope. And Yoga in the PM.

Let me take this time to congratulate Carly for her amazing 30 day progress and weight loss. Amit for pushing through a painful achillies, and staying so sharp and motivated, and to Rob for keeping his spirits high in this first week. I'm glad you are starting to appreciate what you have got yourself into now.

Remember tomorrow, yoga is not easy, nore just some exercises. It takes time to get the form right, but once the form is there you will be away. Vinyasa's and the warrior series of postures are not as simple as you would like to think. Don't push yourself to just try each one badly, focus on getting it right.

Getting past reverse warrior on your first go is an achievement.

I look forwards to hearing the stories from the rest of #TeamSnaz tomorrow.

Sleep well all.
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F**ked!

Wow, 2 days out of the routine, and a little bit of junk to eat last night has resulted in a HORRIBLE workout today. Serious nausea from the half way mark, short sets, and low reps. As well as more sets to fail than ever before.
The motivation and drive was there, but the energy levels were not. Sweating like crazy, panting like a dog. All signs that I was really not on my game this morning.

To be honest I felt a little sluggish walking the dogs before working out, and now feel a little blergh, so I'm wondering if I'm actually a bit off colour, and the workout has just pushed me over the edge. I hope not.

So for now, I'm laying flat out, cooling off and allowing all systems to settle down a bit. On a plus side my back seems to have held out pretty well, so that's something eh.
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Tough decision.

Right, after lots of thinking and talking about it I have decided how I will get back on track with training.
Tonight I will NOT train, other than doing a walk with the dogs to get back into the swing of things. Weighted vest will depend on temperature out there. If it goes on, it rises to 5.5kg this week.

Tomorrow morning I will tackle Back and Chest. Depending how that goes and how my back copes, I will possibly do Plyo in the evening to catch up a little.
Thurs if all is well I will take on Sharms in the morning, and Yoga in the evening. That way I get a good well needed stretch, and am up to date in time for Back and Legs on Friday.

This is all hypothetical, and based on tomorrow mornings results.

Keep them crossed for me people!

As a footnote... A message to the new guy on the gang. Early days are tough dude, read back through any of my weeks 1-4 moaning. There are exercises and movements your body has either never done before, or not for a long time. Shocking muscles and joints into work IS a big deal, and takes time.

For some stuff, especially yoga, plyo, cores, there will be some stuff in there that will REALLY kick your arse, and that can really knock your confidence. But you wait for a few more weeks time when you are killin it. You will look back to now and remember how far you have come, how you pushed yourself, and just how determined you are.

This is all about a change of lifestyle, and it starts with sweat and tears.

The idea of Twitter is to share, gather confidence, and remember how hard it was. So the next person, the one YOU inspire to take on P90X can see THEY are not failing, they are just beginning.
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Man down!

After yawning 'awkwardly' yesterday morning I managed to pull my back, and put myself out of action for a few days. I have missed training yesterday and today and it sucks!
Hoping to get free enough to train from tomorrow and work my way towards catching up on my week.

Well done to Rob for getting stuck in, to Carly for ending Phase1 and reaching day 30 (pics please).
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Round 2 - Week 1 is over

The first thing I have to say is, weighted vests, they make an amazing difference, especially when you are at a stage where your form and endurance is good. This week alone I have seen massive changes in how I train, and how I feel after.
For example now. Kenpo has become very manageable. Not easy, but I knew my way through it, and maybe was able to manage myself through it. Today, woah! Totally different, I am already aching, and very fatigued in my thighs and butt, but it feels great.

So week 1 of P90X, taking into account the changes I have introduced has been epic. I am loving the new found edge on the program, and can't explain how different I feel within. Amazing energy levels and confidence in the new me. Vanity at a whole new level, shop windows are fair game lol.

The push-up bars have ensured I hit my chest so hard this week, that added range has reached to the very edges of the muscles, and my chest is already tighter and I stand prouder. The increased weights on arm routines have left the muscles writhing. Definition in my arms, calf muscles and other areas is really coming out now.

In short, where I once wondered if I would remain motivated on the second round, I am already wondering what I can bring to Round 3. I know 100% I will be completing this program all over again, and as the summer gets into full swing, the endorphins rushing through my body just excite me and drive me even more to become EPIC lol.

Energised, motivated, driven. All the things that I am right now, and I hope that in some way it motivates YOU too. P90X isn't a one off, its not something you complete. Its a lifestyle that you fit into your life. As time progresses it becomes built into the fibre of your day. I'm not saying it will be doing the same 12 DVD's for life, but I do want to feel this alive every day I can, and want to keep challenging myself to make sure I achieve that goal.

Whatever week of the program you are in, just about to start, end of phase 1 or just considering it at this stage, know one thing, if you have the drive, the results WILL follow.

Just before I go I want to say that my diet has been as clean as possible this week, much better than previous weeks, and if I'm honest I am not sure how that has worked out. Energy levels are still high, but so is fatigue. Maybe that's because of the added intensity? The following weeks will soon tell. I like keeping the diet clean though, feels nice within.

Have a great workout, and a great weekend all :)
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Day 5 Legs and Back

Woohoo, after a short meeting at work this morning I returned home. Torn between relaxing in the sun or hitting P90X I was finally talked around to exercise (didn't take much)
So today, as the title says, Legs +Back & Ab Ripper X. Hell I dug today. First day doing Legs with the vest on and it made a huge difference. Intensity on a different but very good level.

By the time I was done with the main workout it was time for ABRX, and more importantly time to get that weighted vest off, and stretch a bit. Wow that felt nice.

After hammering away at ABRX for 16 mins in was rest and wash time.
Another amazing workout finished, core pulled tighter than ever, and feeling fantastic. New clothes for the summer and smaller body complete the package right now.

Damn I feel good. Happy workouts people, Keep pushing play, and remember to bring it!
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Round 2 start weight

Before I forget again, here is my official start weight for round 2 of P90X.
I'm not sure which direction the weight is going in, but 2-3lbs has been gained since changing my nutrition and adding protein shakes and creatine.

To be honest, weight wise I'm in a pretty happy place for me right now, and a mild gain for the right reasons is fine by me.

Weight is no longer a target or goal, but is a good indicator of what's going on with my body. There is definitely some muscle growth going on.

I won't be doing regular weigh-ins as such, but keep an eye open anyway.
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Day3 Sharms+ABRX

As the above says, it was a morning workout for me today after a 4.5 mile walk with the dogs (with weighted vest of course)
Still toast from Plyo yesterday I had an early night, waking at 1am feeling like I had tensed every muscle in my body. Thankfully I woke a little looser.

Got stuck into sharms with the vest one, and immediately I could feel the drain beginning. By half way point I was taking short mid-set rests, but still completing my planned reps. Heavier on the bands and weights too all made up for quite a serious workout. And where I would usually relax at the end after cool down, I knew ABRX was coming.

ABRX is my achilles, but I am learning to overcome it. Form improving even since yesterday, and drive to complete all moves is growing. I managed something of everything, with some lower rep counts here and there. By week 3-4 I'm hoping this will improved on.

Now sitting on the train to work, my stomach feels like its bleeding and like I have taken a beating, my torso feels exhausted, with my chest and back still tight from Monday. I really do feel like I have just started the routine having never done it before! Every session hits hard.

Yoga tomorrow, I can't freakin wait.

Right, off to work in the sunshine now. Keep on training people, love your body, love life.
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Levels of commitment.

OK, a quick entry to make sure someone is on the right track here. A friend about to embark on P90X is a little concerned that they might 'fail' to rise to the challenge.

Here are my thoughts.
When I approached the idea of taking on P90X I thought 'go for gold, balls out, all in', but soon realised that there is a margin of adaptation to the whole thing. Just like entering the London Marathon, 20,000+ people don't all set out to complete it in the same time. Everyone has their own level, pace and limits, and what is important is to find yours.

Not your comfort zone! Hell no, that's why we consider doing these things in the first place, to break the chain, and live a little outside that zone.

What I mean is, there are key areas of the program, nutrition and intensity. Depending on your strengths and weaknesses you will need to dial yourself in properly to make sure you are on the right path.
Round 1 for me, as I have said I was not strict about intake and nutrition. Although it improved over time, I knew keeping some flexibility in my diet was important to keep me on track. My improvements and gains remained pretty darn amazing. And while I didn't stay to the plan, I stayed in the game.

Intensity is the other area. While it is important to give it all you have, pushing for the best possible reps etc. You can control the pain, ache, soreness, call it what you may. You can do this by deciding HOW intense you make it. Round 1 I pushed myself to make sure I was achieving good clean reps, full sets, and a medium level of discomfort. This time around that's very different. Flat out, full on, train to failure every set.
The difference in how I feel daily is a world apart from Round 1. The level of ache and discomfort I am experiencing now is unreal. After waking from 2 hours sleep, after the past 2 days of training flat out, with the vest I am sore as hell. But I love it!
Anyone would think I had not been doing these routines for the past 90 days and had just begun.

So to round up its simple. Give it all you can. Don't be afraid to adapt movements and diet to allow you to feel you are achieving something daily, but are able and keen to keep going. Over the weeks form will improve, achievements will become plentiful, and I am sure you will surprise yourself with what you can do.

Remember its about training to failure, not failure to train. Keep pressing play, and dig deep. P90X Day 90 glory awaits you.
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Day 2 Plyometrics

Ok, so before I rest my eyes for the evening I thought I would just give a round up of my day.
Up early for a meeting threw me out a little, so training was not until the afternoon. Not getting home a little later than planned was somewhat annoying, and messed with my mind a little.
None the less I decided to get stuck in, threw the vest on and gave it my all.

1 hour of hell later, I took off the 11lb vest and reflected. Putting that vest on has made a huge difference, pushing me even harder, making things tough again, and giving me the challenge I need to keep me going.

With an average heart rate of over 150bpm for the whole hour, and having sweated out what felt like litres of sweat, I was happy with my efforts, and delighted with the feeling of exhaustion.

So I'm one happy guy right now. The little changes I have made for round 2 are already paying off. I dread to think how I will feel by the morning, but my legs get a rest as I move on to shoulders and arms (sharms). Still aching like crazy on my back and chest from Monday, tomorrow will be fun fun fun.

So make sure you tune in tomorrow for more of my moaning lol.

Keep pressing play guys..... Keep pressing play.
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Todays lunch

Today I will mostly be eating chicken breast and pineapple. Not together mind you.
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OMG the new routine works!

Well one day after attacking P90X chest and back with new vigour I am feeling the rewards. Chest is stretched like crazy, and aching nicely, and as for my back, I think I will creek if I bend over its so tight (in a good way)

I was really hoping this would be the case, rather than repeating the same old routine, and just feeling like its all very normal and ineffective. So the plan is working. Good news.

The next couple of days are a little messed up for me, with an early morning meeting today, making me miss my usual training slot. And again tomorrow another meeting will bump my training back to the mid afternoon.
So today when I get home I have to hit Plyo. The dreaded Plyometrics (jump training) complete with the new vest, still at 11lbs.

Something tells me that this time around is gonna be a lot more about aching, and a lot less about sailing through the routines. I cracked out the new dumbells last night and love them already. Cant wait to get using them on Wednesday with Shoulders and Arms. That's gonna be a kickass routine with them.

Exciting times ahead. So there you have it P90X, Round2, Day1 done.

A few pics

Just a few progress pics that tell me I am heading in the right direction. Not bad for an almost 40yr old who has been a slob for a long time.
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The story so far.....

As I say I just finished my first round of P90X, so a quick recap.
I discovered the program by accident thanks to a conversation with a friend, and decided to give it a go.
Loved it from day 1, and as time passed I got more and more serious about it.
My results from Day 1 to Day 90 speak for themselves really.
Please note, these results are based on not taking nutrition seriously (that's not a good thing, just a fact) and I did NOT do the Ab Ripper X sessions at the end of the workouts (my loss)

This time as I have said is VERY different.
So here is me. From a 40 to a 34 waist, and down 45lbs since Jan this year

YES!, I know I have a way to go yet, and my tummy is still very much there, but I'm working on it, hence round 2.
However the definition in my arms, legs and back is coming along nicely.

My attitude to Round2

This is my approach to the second round of P90X. I'm coming out fighting.

Hello world, welcome to the new chapter

Hey there and thanks for joining me here on this new blog to chart my progress through P90X. An awesome workout program which delivers results to those who are willing to commit 100% to making a change in their lives.
So what this blog all about, and why another one?
Well I realise that there are different topics on my main blog, and seeing as so many people seem keen to follow and read up on my experience and findings with P90X, I thought it only right to have a dedicated space for stories, pictures and tales of the program.

First up I have to say this. Thank you to all those who have supported me through the first round of P90X, and a special thanks and well done to those who thought what the hell and are currently getting stuck into the program themselves.
I get a lot of 'you inspired me' comments, but the truth is YOU inspire ME. Without people giving encouragement, and making positive comments, there have been times when I might just have called it a day, but thankfully you were all there.

So........... here we go. Sunday just gone (20th May) I completed my first round of P90X. So energised and excited by it, I decided to go head first straight into round 2. I have however changed a few things along the way.
1/ Training ethos. Not happy with happy go lucky, I have decided to go balls out this time, and give it my all.
2/ Nutrition/diet. I was not exactly strict last time around, however this time, the junk stays away.
3/ Equipment. From medium dumbells and bands, to mega bands, bigger dumbells, a weighted training vest for all activities, a proper yoga mat, push up bars. This is the time to get serious.
4/ Record keeping. All in my head last time, this time it goes down on paper, and improvements made weekly.
5/ Form. My form is good, but always room to improve, no complacency here.
6/ Definition and toning. Speaks for itself. The messing around is over, now its time to get toned.

That's just a glimpse into my attitude this time around, I'm sure more will show as I go on.

I will keep this entry short, but plan to try and make almost daily entries, even if its just random pics, or an update of what I did and how I feel.

You can follow my main blog on michaelsnasdell.blogspot.com
Follow me on Twitter @therealslimsnaz

OR just watch this space.

Thanks for reading.