Week 3 & 4

It took me a while to finish these weeks, but I did!  I had some things come up at work that set me back a little, plus a small injury that lasted longer than I wanted it to.  I am still looking to change my disease with this workout and feel that it is very possible to do. 

I love what this workout does for me each and every day, so much that I felt different when I wasn't working out these last few weeks.  I lost some of the energy that I had attained from these workouts.  I want that back, very quickly.  Plus, by taking some time away from the P90X I lost some flexibility in both Stretching and Yoga, very much missed.
Yoga does more for me than any other workout in this Program.  How?

• My job at Wal-Mart is kind of stressful and Yoga takes all the stress away
• My flexibility has been a ? mark all my life, Yoga has changed that in an instant
• It gives me the ability to strengthen my core from week to week
• Yoga has taught me to breath through pain, instead of letting it linger

Now that I am back in full force I am looking forward to taking this workout to the next level.  When I went through this program the first time, I did not work hard, rather I did each exercise with the thought that I wanted to get through them.  For example; when it was a weight lifting exercise I only lifted 8-10lbs at the most, now I am lifting 15-20lbs on those same exercises.  That doesn't seem like much to you, but it is, trust me!
My goal is not to bulk up for size purposes instead to build muscle in places that will help my Fibromyalgia take a back seat in this Journey.  I have done no research in this matter, I am taking a chance on the Muscle Confusion from P90X, there just has to be something out there that can help slow this disease down to the point where it takes a back seat in my life.

If I had to describe where I am at right now and where my diseases are as well, I would describe it like this:

1. Before I started this Journey- Fibromyalgia & Lupus were in the drivers seat
2. After I started P90X I moved Both to the middle of the drivers seat
3. Right now they are in the passengers seat
4. My goal is to put them both in the backseat for good

On another note, I have decided to join the "Team Beach Body" as a coach, my commitment to this is for one reason, to help people reach their goals one day at a time.  My goal is not to hustle people with this company, but rather to use my story to help change peoples lives.  I am grateful for Tony Horton's passion with his company that I want to share my success with all who will listen.  If you are interested in trying one of the Beach Body Programs but you need more info., that's where I come in.
So Bring It,
Kevin

Week 2

This week was another amazing one, I love what I am getting from this workout and how well my body has reacted to each and every exercise.  This has been an amazing journey so far and I am looking forward to what is to come.

I still love the Yoga and X Stretch workouts, but the other workouts are growing on me as well.  I am still increasing the weight in every exercise that I can, to help with my diesease and to increase my strength all over my body.  I still believe that what I am doing will pay greatly later in life, it's something I want to be able to pass along to others with this disease (Fibromyalgia) and other ones like this.

What is so amazing to me is everyone at work is so stressed and feeling the pressure of Management, but with me I am so relaxed and calm, not really who I was in the beginning of this disease.  I love the stress relief that P90X has given me, but I actually think that most of the relief come from the stretching and Yoga. 

I am looking forward to week three and what I will get from these workouts, I have gotten even stronger these last two weeks.  Ready to start again!
Kevin

Week 1

This is very different for me, I am used to posting everyday and seeing how each workout effects me on a daily basis.  However, I think I am going to like this a little more, I have seen how the workout effects me on a daily basis from the last Journey, to how my body is going to react from a week to week basis.  Plus, this time around I am using more weights, I have increased the weights on almost every exercise so far, and I feel really good.  I really thought that I would struggle in the beginning of this new Journey, but so far that has not happened.  I will be looking for it to come though, I just know that I am putting my body to the test, so I will be ready when it happens.

I still love the Yoga workout, to me it's the core workout in this entire Journey, and I knocked it out of the park this week.  I had trouble in the middle of the workout, but was able to recover pretty fast to finish.  This new Journey will be tough, but I believe that I am ready for it.  I have been preparing myself daily for this new Journey, to get more out of it.

My GOAL with this workout is to change my disease, not to build muscle, but it would be nice to do both.  Because I love how I feel right now, I feel really good and I know that this is just the beginning of something new. I am looking forward to what each new week will bring.  My weight is still down and my muscles are growing, which makes my pain levels almost disappear, awesome for me!

Week Two starts tomorrow,

Kevin

Day 90 & 91

What a way to end this Journey!  The last 2 days had to be the best of this whole adventure.  The workouts were X Stretch & Yoga X, my two favorites in this whole P90X workout routine. 

I thought when I started this whole thing, there was no way I would ever get to the end.  I am here though, and very proud to be here.  I really thought that it would be tougher, this P90X workout is one of the hardest workouts on the planet, and I knocked it out of the park.  Now, I may not have gotten the same results as others did when they completed the 90 day challenge.  However, I finished and to me that's enough for me this time around!

Since I have completed the course and know that my body can take it, the time has come for me to step it up a little.  I have already started a new Journey and I am looking forward to the results that I am going to get this time around, knowing that my body can handle this workout I think that it will be different. 

The first 91 days of P90X has done some great things for my two muscle diseases, my Fibro. has changed and that was the result I was looking for.  Most people do this workout to lose weight, I did it to change my Diseases and I think it is working.  I feel completely different right now than when I started some 3 months ago.  My goal is not to feel different, it is to change my stars and I think I am well on my way to doing just that. 

I am going to continue this blog, because it's the way I can tell my story, but I am not going to post everyday like I have been.  Instead I am going to post weekly, so when I finish a week I will tell about it in the post, there are 13 weeks in this new journey.  My hope is that I will see better results in these weeks than I did in the first Journey.  One way I will see better results is by ramping up the workouts, by lifting more weights and completing all the workouts.

I am looking forward to what will come from this new workout, so stay tuned to this blog for more info. on what P90X is doing for Fibromyalgia.  Bring It!

Kevin

Day 89

Yesterday was still tough, but I got more out of this Core Synergistics workout than I did just a few days ago.  I was more prepared for the total body workout this time around.  This exercise routine is starting to become one of my favorites of this whole Journey, because it is so tough.  It is going to take me another go around to get this one down.  I am pretty comfortable with all the different workouts in this P90X workout, but this one is just so tough.  I like it that way!

What make Core Synergistics so Hard?

You have to use your core on almost every exercise, and if you don't learn how to control your core you will struggle with this workout.  The last time I did this workout, I did not use my core very well.  This time I did some things differently and I made it through the workout with more energy.  I like the idea of using your whole body on every exercise, it almost like you have to think while you are working at the same time.  I am not used to that!  Every workout has something that you should focus on while you are working out, but this one goes to the extreme, and I am starting to like it.  There are only about 4 exercises that use weights, and this workout is the toughest one of them all.  So I guess weights doesn't make the workout tough!

I am getting ready for the last 2 workouts of this Journey, they just happen to be my favorites of this whole P90X Routine, Yoga X & X Stretch.  I am almost to the end, so pumped right now, can't believe that I made it through this amazing journey.  Want to throw myself a party, but don't have time for that, but I am very proud.

Kevin

Day 88

Today was tough, the workout was Kenpo.  I am thinking it wasn't just the workout, I was tired.  However I still did the workout and finished the whole thing, but it wore me out.  I still like what this one is doing for me and my fibro., it is increasing my flexibility in places I never thought possible.  The kicks and punches have gotten stronger and better than when I first started this journey 3 months ago.  My body has responded very well to this workout and I feel like this one has helped almost as much as the Yoga X workout. 

I really do lie the Stretches before the workout, I have added a couple of them to my routine that I do everyday to help me recover for the next workout.  These stretches have added some much needed flexibility to my legs and hamstrings, both weaknesses of mine for a long time. 

Kenpo Stretches before the workout:

• Straight Arm Reaching Torso Twist- reach right arm up tall and grab your right wrist with left hand, with wide feet reach to the left with a straight back across to the other side and back up tall.  Now repeat this time going all the way to the floor to increase the stretch and repeat on the other arm.
• Kneeling Lunge/Reaching Arm Stretch- from runners pose kneel down and raise you arms like you are in cresent pose, hold for 30 seconds, and repeat on other side.
• Lying Hamstring Stretch- with both feet straight keep one leg on the floor and raise the other leg up into the air, hold for 30 seconds, then go for toe lock or hold same position and lower that leg out to the side keeping the other legs stright on the floor, lay you other arm out to the side and look that direction.  Repeat on other side.
• Pigeon into Kenpo Quad Stretch- from your knees place your hands under your shoulders and your knees under your waist, bring your right knee to your hands and collapse forward.  Then slide your back leg up a little and reach back to grab your ankle on that leg and pull by leaning forward.  Repeat on other side.
• Frog- still on hands and knees, spread legs wide, keeping legs in parallel position.  Lower upper body down towards the floor while gently pressing hip backwards.  Modify intesnity by resting on forearms.

These are a great way to start or end your day, or at least it is for me.  I love what these have done for my body and the results they have given me over the last 3 months.  I have to recover fast today, because I have Core Synergistics later tonight.  Getting pumped about the finish,

Kevin

Day 87

Yesterday was tough, Core Synergistics was the workout and it kicked my tail.  This is one that I dread when it comes up because it's a total body workout.  Core Synergistics is a beast of a workout, but kind of fitting for a beast of a Disease. 

From the very beginning of this workout you will see why it's a beast, there is no holding back in this one, either you give it your all or it will take it from you.  I have figured some things out while doing this workout, if you use your core to get you through the hardest parts you will be able to finish strong in the end.  I think it is designed that way.  This is what makes the workout so tough, if you are unable to use your core, you will be to tired to finish.  That has happened to me a few times.

I was surprised that there was no soreness today though, I expected to be very sore from the workout.  However, I do have to give that credit to my routine, it got me to this point and it sure got me through last night's workout.  I love the way I feel right now, I am pretty tired but that's not from the workout, I have worked a lot of hours this week at work.  I know that if I hadn't started this workout when I did, I would be struggling right now at work.  P90X, is the real deal, and while I will not get the results that most have received in doing this workout, I will have accomplished one thing.  I proved that someone with 2 muscle Diseases could make it through a very tough Workout Routine.  You see in the beginning I did not try to build the muscles that most did with Workout.  I have proved my point, and now in the second round I will get the results that come from this workout.  Plus, I have not followed the meal portions for the P90X Journey, nor have I quit drinking sodas.  The next round will be different, I know now what I need to do, it's time to take it to the next level.

Kevin

Day 86

Yesterday was another Awesome workout, X Stretch.  It was supposed to be Core Synergistics but I had to work late and so I reversed a couple of the workout to fit my schedule.  I did the Stretch workout because was the workout that best a best fit  for the time crunch I was in.

Plus, I already do most of this workout on a daily basis.  I am so amazed at how well I have done with the stretching in this Journey.  When I started some 86 days ago I never thought I would be here right now.  I can touch the floor on a couple of the Standing stretches, never thought that could happen, but it did!
The seated stretches are amazing, but when I started, they sucked.  I could not reach past my knees on any of them, now almost to my ankles, blows my mind.

I am glad I switched the workouts, because for some reason I needed to stretch really good and I did.  I am trying to get ready for Core Synergistics later today, this one is so tough, because it's a total body workout and the toughest workout in this Journey.  This workout will make you better, so I am glad I stretched today to get my body ready for this one.
Kevin

Day 85

Yesterday was another amazing workout, my goal is to be able to master all the moves and poses in this Yoga X workout.  I am close to being there but I still need more work!  I absolutely love Yoga X and what this exercise does for me and my Diseases.  I feel amazing after each workout, but it did not start that way.  In the beginning, I was not sure if I was going to like this workout, because it was very hard to do.  As the days have passed and my body has gotten stronger this workout has gotten easier. 

My core strength has improved so much and it's mostly from Yoga and Stretching.  My body almost feels no pain throughout the day, and it's because I do Yoga.  I never in a thousand years would have thought that Yoga would do this for me.  Had I known this, I would have started this a long time ago, very happy that I challenged myself with this P90X Journey.

Given all that I have accomplished throughout this Journey, if I didn't have my routine, I would be at day one still.  This is no joke, my routine is what got me this far.  I have been asked so many times if I feel pain or if I have flare ups.  The answer is simple but hard for most to understand, I have not had a flare up ONE TIME during this whole journey.  The reason is the simple part, my routine is solid, so solid that I am starting over with my family when I finish the first journey. 

My Routine

• First when I wake up I apply the Two Old Goats to my Shoulders, Arms & Abs
• Next I stroll to the Fridge and drink a 2oz shot of Vemma
• Then I Stretch my Hamstrings with a forward bend, then a one legged bend on both sides, to a seated glute stretch on both legs, I usually go right into the Kenpo Quad Stretch or Pigeon
• I stretch my arms and Shoulders only if they need it with what I like to call a morning stretch, then  I stretch the arm across the body and then to a triceps stretch over the head.

I use these stretches almost everyday, usually after the X Stretch & the Yoga X workouts I do not stretch in the morning, because I don't need the Stretch to get going. 

I have to say that it's an amazing feeling to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go, a feeling that before this Journey began I did not know what that felt like.  Now, I get that all the time and it is completely amazing.  I am so pumped to start the last week of this Journey off with Yoga X.  Now I am getting ready for the last 6 workouts, so Bring It P90X!

Kevin

Day 84

Yesterday was amazing, I mean what a way to end a long week.  X Stretch was the workout and man did my body needed that today.  This week was tough on my body all the changes at work and with my body, it was time to relax and have a good stretch.

This workout is just plain amazing for my Fibromyalgia, plus it's a great starting point to a new week.  Today I am starting my last week of this Journey, I am so pumped about making it through this 91 Day challenge, and X Stretch is the reason I am here to this point.  I love everything about this workout, the stretches are amazing and they get to a point of starting over and I love that about this workout.

What makes X Stretch so amazing?

• The stretches start at the neck and work their way down.
• You spend a lot of time in certain areas: Hamstrings, Lower Back, Abs, Neck and Shoulders
• You leave the workout feeling refreshed
• The workout sets you up for success throughout the P90X Journey
• Other than the Yoga X Workout, it's the best workout in this series

I am ready for the last week of this Journey now, I wasn't sure I would feel ready to complete the workout after the week I had, but after X Stretch I feel ready to complete the journey.

Bring It!

Kevin

•  

Day 83

Yesterday was a good workout it was Kenpo and I am just starting to like this one.  At first I didn't like it, but it kind of wears on you after a while.  I was surprised yet again that I was able to go through the whole exercise with no problems.  I have actually gotten better at the kick, I mean the height in my kicks have increased since the beginning of the workout.  I think my increased flexibility has a ton to do with this, I am doing things now that I have never done, and it's because I am more flexible now than I ever have been. 

This workout has a lot to do with my added flexibility, without it I would not be as far as I am right now.  If I only get that from this workout I will be happy.  When I add strength in my arms and mid section it is important that I have the right amount of stretching to condition those muscles, that's what I get from Kenpo.

I am so looking forward to X Stretch later today, I need a good stretch after the week I have had.  My Job at Wal-Mart is heating up and the stress levels with everyone is growing, X stretch and Yoga help me get through times like this.  Plus, this week was tough on my body during the workouts, I think my body is changing again, and that was tough on me the first time I went through this, so the stretching exercises are very important.

Until Next Time,

Kevin

Day 82

Yesterday was a good workout but the day off killed me.  I never thought the workout was going to end, but I stuck it out and finished it strong.  Today my body was not as sore as I thought it would be. 

The workout was legs and back so to me it was the perfect one to take a day off on, I was going to take the X Stretch day off, but work kept me out of this one and I didn't want to push to hard after coming so far. 

The workout is a tough one for me, I was blessed with bird legs at birth, so working on legs is a tough one for me.  There were parts of this workout I was not looking forward to, but I still pressed on.  That has been my motto from the beginning of this whole Journey, no matter what obstacles present themselves to me, I will just press on.  I guess the hardest part about legs and back is all the different lunges, most of them have weights, unlike the other workouts that have lunges those are with no weights.  The weights make the exercises harder, you have to maintain form, and that can be tough with extra weights. 

I am looking forward to Kenpo later today and then it's X Stretch, ready for that workout.

Until Next Time,

Kevin

Day 81

AMAZING Workout Yesterday!  Yoga X in the P90X series just moves me in ways I can't explain, well I can but it might take a while.  Today was the first time I made it all the way through the entire workout, I have been doing this workout a lot, but never got this far, it's an accomplishment that I will not forget.

This workout is the key to the whole program, if you can make it through this workout you can do any of the other ones with ease.  I consider myself blessed to have found this workout and my Routine.  Without either of them I would still be struggling along letting this disease have it's way. 

Yoga X has added so much strength to my core is crazy, but so true!  I remember early on this routine kicked my butt; however, I continued to practice and push myself to finish strong with each workout, and that is where I found the (chi, the yen and yang) to complete this workout.  I believe that Yoga X might be the answer to all my questions.  Let me explain!  What I mean by this comment is:

• Yoga builds strength in places I didn't think was possible
• Yoga gives me an inner peace which allows me to control my stress levels
• Yoga has given me a passion for working out, something I never thought I would have again
• Yoga is the key to this whole workout, it opens the door to all the other workouts
• Yoga has decreased the amount of pain I have to deal with on a daily basis
• Yoga has opened my eyes to a whole new world of exercise and fitness
• Yoga is the yen and the yang, that has built strength in my balance and legs
• Yoga is the complete workout, that I could see myself doing on a daily basis

This workout is one that I look forward to each week, I like the other ones but not like this one.  I have opened the door to so may good things because of this workout.

I am looking forward to the legs and back workout later today,

Kevin

Day 80

Yesterday was a very hard workout, mostly because I pushed myself a little further with Back & Biceps.  I know it's my fault but I want to be sure I give myself every opportunity to change.  This workout is so tough without the push because of all the curls.  Just imagine how many different ways one can do a curl and I am pretty sure I did it yesterday in the workout.  This workout is not really about size and strength as it is about changing my muscles for my Disease.  The muscle confusion is working along with my recovery routine, by putting them both together I have found something besides pills that helps me deal with Fibromyalgia.

My goal is not to stop though, I want to see how far I can go with this new discovery.  I know that I have to be careful though, I do not want to hurt myself in the process.  Now that I know my body can handle the workout and the weights I am going to give each workout just a little more each time.  I am a little surprised at how my body has responded to this workout, but I knew how strong my juice was, now I know that it's a little stronger than I thought.  I really think that the juice has stepped it's game up right along with the workout.  Maybe this doesn't make sense to you, but it does to me.

I know that this whole Journey would not be possible without the Juice. 

I am looking forward to the next 10 days and the completion of this Journey, but I am really looking forward to Yoga later today.  Bring It P90X!

Kevin

Day 79

Yesterday was Plyometrics and yet again this workout kicked my tail, but I wasn't very sore today, that's my routine's fault.  I will take that though!  This workout is tough on my body, because there is a lot of jumping off the ground and a ton of lunges. For some reason I like the workout though.

Maybe because I can do most of the workout with no problem.

My legs felt like jello when we were done, but it quickly went away.  I have found that I am not very good at cardio workouts, so that is something I need to work on in future workouts.  This is very surprising to me, when I was younger I was very good at things like that.  I guess Fibro. has done more to my body than I thought.  Now, I just have something else to work towards!

I am looking forward to another weight workout later today, it seems the harder I work the better I feel so you better believe that I will be bringing it these next few days that I have left in this Journey.

Kevin

Day 78

Yesterday was Chest, Shoulders & Triceps and today I am sore.  I new it was coming though, I pushed so hard in the workout to see if I could and what result I would get from it.  So I expected this day of soreness and I have to say that it's not as bad as I thought it would be.  My routine is one of the reasons the soreness is not as bad as it could have been.  It has been a workout changer, I have been adding to it as I go through this Journey, picking up different things to help me recover faster and faster.

What makes this workout so tough?

• There are different kinds of push ups, one that you wouldn't do everyday.
• There are weight lifting exercises that work the muscles you don't use.
• Plus, more push ups where the whole body moves from side to side (Hate those)
• There are weighted arm circles ( these hurt) but it's a good hurt.

This workout is just different all the way around, I have only done it three times, so it's not a regular workout, but I still like what I get from this workout.

I think this week is where my size is going to come from, so I am trying to get the most out of this week.  I am looking forward to Plyometrics later today.  Ready for a cardio workout!

Kevin

Day 77

Yesterday was amazing!  If you suffer with a muscle disease this is something you might want to try.  I never thought that stretching would do so much for me, but it has and I love every minute of this workout.  What I like most about X Stretch is you can pause the tape and stretch for a longer time or you can skip one that you don't need.

X Stretch is one of the best workouts in this series.  Yoga X is #1 for me, you might be different!

When I started this Journey I struggled with my flexibility, a lot.  Now, I am more flexible all over my body and this does wonders for my Fibromyalgia. 

My Top 10 Areas Where I Have Seen Increased Flexibility:

1. Standing Side Stretch- when I started this my stretch was horrible, now it has take shape and it looks 1,000 time better.
2. Shoulder Stand- I couldn't even do this one when I started, now I can do it and hold it for a while
3. Plough- again I could not do this one either, now I can drop my legs back over the couch and soon I will be at the floor.
4. Glute Stretch- I was able to do this one but not right.  Now I can do it and do it right even pulling my arms towards my body to increase the stretch.
5. Wide Feet Forward Hamstring Stretch- Early on I could only go as far as my knees, now I can go to the floor, almost putting my palms on the floor.
6. Back Hero- couldn't do at all, now I can and even put my palm on the floor behind me.
7. Bow- in the beginning I could only reach one ankle, now I can reach both ankles and pull up to form the bow.
8. Seated Single Leg Hamstring Stretch- early on I could only reach my knee, now I can touch my ankles, never thought that would be possible on either side.
9. Standing Single Leg Hamstring Stretch- early on I could only reach my knee, now I can touch the floor with one hand and the other hand is past my ankle on both legs.
10. Camel- in the beginning I could not do this without cramping out, now I can not only do it but hold it for the full time.  I am almost to the point where I can take my hands off my waist and reach them to the floor to increase the stretch.

As you can see this workout is amazing and it gets results, that's the most important part of the whole exercise.  I know that when I started this Journey, results is what I was looking for.  I have noticed that my increased flexibility has changed so many things.  My pain levels have disappeared to almost none, my core has gotten so much stronger and my workouts have gotten better.  I would recommend this workout to anyone who struggles with muscle pain.

I am so looking forward to starting week 12!

Until Next Time,

Kevin

Day 76

Yesterday was Kenpo and again it was another great workout.  I have started using this workout to burn calories, and I think it is working.  This workout does more for me than I thought it would in the beginning.  I have gained some much needed flexibility from this workout and my muscles love the break they get when this workout comes up. 

I was able to complete the entire workout again this time.  I have been able to complete almost all the workouts the further I get into the Journey.  This is the key to success with the P90X Workout.

Kenpo is not an easy workout, there are no weights involved, but there are a lot of punches and kicks.  That alone will test you to the limit.  Why? Because when you throw a lot of punches and Kicks, it is key not to bang your joint or pull a muscle in the process.  You have to make sure that you get a real good stretch before the workout, that to is the key to success in this workout.  I try to stretch before I start the video, just to make sure I am ready to kick and throw the punches. 

I am so looking forward to X Stretch today, I need a good stretch for my whole body.

Until Tomorrow,

Kevin

Day 75

Yesterday was Legs & Back, this workout always kicks my tail!  It doesn't matter how far into the workout I get either, this workout kills me.  Maybe it's because of all the squats and lunges.  I know that the workout is making me stronger, I am just wondering when I will make it all the way through.

Last night I missed some of the exercises because my legs were cramping up, this was the first time I had cramps in this whole Journey.  I knew one day I would have to deal with this and I am glad it happened so late in this Journey.  I was bale to battle through the workout and I pushed through to the end but it was a challenge. 

Today I fully expected to have sore legs but to my surprise they were not sore, that is a complete testament to my routine.  I had to start it right after the Ab Ripper X workout and it continued throughout the day.  I am pretty sure that without my routine I would not have done the next workout in this P90X Journey.

Why is this workout so tough?

1. Sneaky Lunges- where your heals can not touch the floor 20 reps.
2. Side to Side Lunges- from a standing position lung to the right and to the left 20 reps.
3. Calf Raises- three different sets with 15lbs weights in each hand: toes pointed toward each other 25 reps, toes forward 25 reps and toes pointed out 25 reps.
4. Wall Squats- sitting on the wall for 1 min and 30 seconds
5. Step Back Lunges- with both feet side by side, step back for lunges with 8lbs weights in each hand 15 reps on each side
6. Dead Lift Squats- using no weights bend over and touch the floor while in a squat position
7. Super Skaters- doing a squat with one leg off the floor and that leg goes toward the back of the room while the same side arm goes toward the front of the room 25 reps on each side.
8. 10 Different Pull Up Styles- doing close grip overhand and reverse grip + 9 more different kinds of pull ups, enough to give the legs a break every now and then.

I love this workout, but it wears me out.  I am looking forward to Kenpo later tonight, day 76 is right around the corner.

Kevin

Day 74

Yesterday Was Amazing!  Yoga X was the workout and I am sold on the fact that this is the best workout in this series.  This workout alone does so much for me and My Diseases, there is no doubt in my mind this is the anchor in the P90X Journey.  Without this workout and the progress I have made, I would not be where I am right now. 

Early on I was just trying to get through the first 45 minutes, now I am soring like an eagle through the whole workout, something I never thought was possible.  I still haven't conquered all the poses, but every workout brings success and that's all you can ask for.  I have even found myself practicing the poses throughout the day, in the shower, at work in my spare time and anywhere I think about this workout.   My mind has done a 180 when it comes to Yoga.  I have even been on Google looking for new poses to help me increase my progress.

When I started this Journey, Yoga was the one workout I wanted to skip, that was until I did the first workout and woke up the next morning feel amazing.  Now, I am counting down the days until I can do this workout again and again. 

Top 10 things that Yoga X Does for Me and my Diseases:

1. Added Flexibility
2. Strength
3. Core Strength
4. Mental Toughness
5. Balance
6. Muscles Rebuilding
7. Toughness
8. Stress Release
9. Muscle Strength
10. Muscle Growth

All of these 10 things have completely changed my Diseases and my body.  I never thought that yoga would give so many things, but it has and I am loving every minute of it.  Now, my goal is to add to each of these 10 things each and every time I do this workout. 

My goal with this Journey is to change my diseases, and I believe that I have already done that.  Now I just have to take it to the next level.  Looking forward to Legs and Back later today.

Bring It,

Kevin

Day 73

Yesterday was Shoulders & Arms, and let me just say WOW!  I used more weights than I ever have (this is becoming a regular statement as of late), and I think the reason for this is because my body is adjusting so well to the increase from workout to workout.  Over the last couple of Weeks I have started using more weights, steadily increasing from one workout to the next.  The muscle confusion is what allows me to do this, with that piece missing it would be difficult for me to do.  I am so surprised with how much I can do, with the weights that is.  When I first started this workout, I was doing 5-8lbs in almost every exercise.  Now, I am doing 15-30lbs with every different exercise.  In just 60 days I have made so much progress that I am totally amazed.  I think I might even increase to 35-40 in this next week of workouts.

One of the main reasons I am able to continue to improve is my Routine.  It has been a while since I have spoken about this.  But without this routine I would not be where I am right now.  I wake up every morning and do the same thing over and over.  I have to say it is much better than waking up with a disease that's out of control.  In fact I have found something that my Disease doesn't like, exercise.  Wish I would have know this years ago, I would have made the jump a long time ago. 

I am so looking forward to Yoga X Tomorrow, really can't wait!

Bring It P90X!

Kevin

Day 72

Yesterday was Plyometrics and what a workout it was.  I think from the start of this workout I have under estimated Plyometrics.  Just now starting to see what I am gaining from this workout.  It took me a while to see this, but it is all beginning to become clear.  This workout is giving me stamina, just like a cardio workout would.  Plus, I am gaining some much needed balance in my lower body.

I am looking forward to what I am going to get from this workout throughout the rest of this journey.  So far Plyometrics has not given me any problems, I don't get very sore after doing this workout.  That's a plus for me, because most of the workouts are tough, so it's nice to have a workout that is different. 

I believe that I have gotten so much stronger and that is what helps me get through workouts like Plyometrics.  The added strength allows me to push a little harder and to get more out of each workout.  At first, I didn't like this workout, but now I understand what it's doing for me and my Fibromyalgia, and I love the workout & the results that I am getting.  Looking forward to weights tomorrow!

Until Next Time!

Kevin

Day 71

Yesterday was another great workout, although, I know that after weights and Push Ups I will not feel the real soreness for a couple of days.  I did a lot of push ups and that usually takes a couple of days for the soreness to set in.  The workout was tough because I did more reps in all the different exercises throughout this workout.  I felt it, right after the workout, my arms were very tight.  Today however, I do not feel that bad!  I have gained so much strength in these last 70 days it just blows my mind.  

This whole journey is not about big muscles, it's about changing my disease.  I believe that I am on the right track with this workout.  I may not get where I want with this first round, but somewhere down the line I will find a way to ease this beast of a disease. 

The progress that I have made already is amazing.  Before this workout I would wake up with no feeling of life, my disease always had control, now it does not! I may have a little more soreness each day to deal with but for the most part it is gone by mid morning. 

I remember doing this very workout on Day 1, I was doing maybe 5 push ups and I was on my knees because I couldn't do them the right way.  Now, I am doing them the right way, and on day 71 I did 10-15 of each one.

Push Ups Round 1:

1. Standard Push Ups- I did 15
2. Military Push Ups- I did 10
3. Wide Fly Push Ups- I did 15
4. Decline Push Ups- I did 10
5. Diamond Push Ups- I did 10 (this is the only one I did on my knees because of my wrist issues)
6. Dive-Bomber Push Ups- I did 15

Round 2:

1. Standard Push Ups- I did 15
2. Military Push Ups- I did 10
3. Wide Fly Push Ups- I did 15
4. Decline Push Ups- I did 10
5. Diamond Push Ups- I did 10 ( from my knees)
6. Dive Bomber Push Ups- I did 10 (to tired to do any more)

If you combine all them together I did 140 push ups last night, way more than I ever thought possible in a thousand years.  This total is all about how this program has changed me and my body.  This shows my progress from the start of this workout to now, my goal is to get to 150 and I think I can do it.

The workout was Chest and Back, but my arms are the body part that felt this workout the most, at least right now.  I am looking forward to Plyometrics tomorrow, this workout will test me to say the least.  It's more of a cardio workout, and I struggle with those.  Bring It P90X, is that all you got!

Kevin

Day 70

Yesterday was amazing!  X Stretch is like my new best friend, I do it all the time, but yesterday I needed it real bad.  This workout stretches my whole body and it releases so much stress and I think I had a little to get rid of.  This was the first time I had gone through the whole workout, I usually only do what my body needs.

I felt so awesome this morning when I woke up, I almost didn't want to go to work, but I did!  A normal morning is full of soreness, today I was not sore a bit.  I owe that to X Stretch last night!

This is another complete workout that I have progressed in this workout so well though.  When I started my flexibility was very bad, now it is so much better, that I believe it has allowed me to push myself in each and every workout.  In the beginning I was at my knees on every stretch, now I am at the floor with both hands.  That just amazes me!

If I had to pick one Stretch out of this workout it would be single leg hamstring stretch from a standing position.  I love what this stretch has done for me in every workout that I do.

I am looking forward to starting week 11 later today!

Until Next Time,

Kevin

Day 69

Yesterday was different, I was tired, that hasn't happened lately, but I guess vacation caught up with me, or it cold have been the ride home (14 hours).  Anyways, the workout was Kenpo and I surprised myself.  I was able to do the whole workout, I threw every punch and kick in this routine.  This was the first time for me, but I hope it's not the last.

Kenpo is a different kind of workout, but I like what it gives me!  I think this one has helped me more than I thought it would.  Let me explain! 

In the beginning I thought this workout was kind of stupid, but now that I am 69 days into the workout I see the bigger picture.  I have gained so much flexibility in this workout, never saw that one coming.  I see how each workout supports the next.  Just three days ago I was sore and my stretches did nothing for me, now I can touch the floor, and I think that most of that comes from doing it so much, but the other part is this workout.  Before I started this workout, I could not kick at all now, I still struggle with my balance, but I can get through the workout a lot easier than I could in the beginning. 

Early on I was afraid of throwing punches and kicks, now that I am stronger and more flexible it takes less energy to complete this workout.  My stamina has gone through the roof and I like that. 

I am so looking forward to X Stretch later today, I need a good stretch after a long week, plus it will get me ready for next week.  Like I said before each workout supports the next one, so today's workout is very important.
Bring It,
Kevin

Day 68

Yesterday was Legs & Back, it was a tough workout, we drove 14 hours in the rain and very slow traffic all the way home from Destin, FL the day before and I was so tired.  Somehow, I found the strength to do this workout and finish it as strong as I could.  The Ab Ripper X workout at the end just about did me in.  I am not sure how I finished this workout, but I did!

Legs and & Back is a tough workout for me, because it is the weakest part of my body.  I have always had problems with my posture and my legs, so a workout that focuses on legs and the back is so tough.  I have found that stretching really helps me get through this workout.

What is so tough about this workout?

Answer, there are a ton of lunges, some with weights and most without, but they are still lunges.  My legs always feel like jello when I am done, and I still have the ab workout to follow.  I thought real hard about skipping the ab workout, but I am glad I didn't.  Even though my abs haven't formed like I would like them to, I know that repetition will pay off in the end.  I still haven't been able to do the Ab workout from start to finish.  This is the only time I feel cramps in my muscles, it's always during the middle of the ab workout.  I usually take it easy in the middle of this workout, I am to scared to push myself to the limit.  However, my abs have never been sore the next morning, which I feel this is a good sign that I can push a little harder, I just have to be careful.

I m so looking forward to Kenpo later today, I think I can push through this week with a strong showing, only time will tell. 
Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 67

Yesterday's workout was amazing!  Yoga, is a complete workout that does more for me than I ever thought possible.  I remember in the beginning of this Journey, there was a lot I couldn't do, now I am able to do those things.  Like for instance, sshoulder stand and plow, both of these I could not do just a couple of weeks ago. 

What I like most about this workout?  I can go from one week to the next and everything is different.  Last week there were things I couldn't do that I was able to do this week.  This workout is complete and it works the entire body.  Yoga, works the whole body as well.  The first 45 mins of this workout is so tough, it doesn't matter what kind of shape you are in, it gonna kick your butt.  I remember the first couple of times I did it, "I thought there is no way I will be able to do this".  Now, I am doing it, something I never thought possible.

Yoga is awesome, I believe that this workout has changed my life, my stamina, my workout routine and my body.  I love how I feel after the workout.  I am a little tired but my body feels amazing, this workout comes after two very tough weight workouts, so my body needs the rest by then.  Also, it stretches parts of the body that are very hard to stretch, that's why I like it so much.  I am so looking forward to Legs and Back tomorrow.  I can't wait to see the end result!  Bring It P90X,
Kevin

Day 66

Yesterday was Back & Biceps and it was another great workout.  It was a day filled with a lot of curls done a bunch of different ways.

1. There are regular curls- I did them with 15lbs
2. There are one arm concentration curls- I did them with 10lbs
3. There are hammer curls- I did them with 20lbs
4. There are in and out curls- I did them with 15lbs
5. There are curls in a lunge position with one arm on your knee and the other resting on that arm- I did them with 15lbs
6. There was a different set of regular curls with a hammer down- I did them with 20 lbs

Then you have the different pull ups mixed in to keep your muscles guessing all the time.  Plus there are 2 different lawn mowers one with elbows in and one with elbows out, I did both with 20lbs.  This is the most weight I have lifted since starting this P90X workout. 

I know the soreness will set in in a couple of days, but I am hoping that Yoga X will take some of that soreness away.  I do not have much soreness right now, just my regular from waking up, so usually every morning I start with the cream and then later I will stretch it out.  This has been my routine from the beginning of this workout, and so far it is working.  It usually takes 2 days for the soreness to set in from a weight workout, so I know I have a small window to take some of that away.

P90X has given me so much to look forward to, a lot of added strength, and most of it is core strength.  I am looking forward to the end of this Journey and what the outcome will be.  I am so looking forward to Yoga X!
Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 65

Yesterday was awesome, Plyometrics is a cardio workout that always kicks my butt.  It's almost like I get lulled to sleep at the end of each week and then bam, a tough workout and then Plyo.  The workout is not real bad, it's just a lot of squats and lunges, my body struggles with both.  My legs are very sore today but not as bad as my arms were from the workout the day before. 

I have found that using X Stretch as often as possible really helps with my sore legs.  So I do a lot of this routine each and everyday.  I have found that my muscles are easier to stretch right after a workout like Plyometrics.  Lately I have been stretching for about 20-30 minutes after a leg workout, I have gained so much more flexibility because of this.

I am finding new ways to strengthen my core, and that helps me get through the tough workouts.  I really love what P90X is doing for me each and everyday.  I have gained so much strength and flexibility, I never thought this would be possible.  Ready for the Journey to continue!

Kevin

Day 64

Yesterday was a good workout, I finally did all of the regular workout and 80% of the Ab Ripper X workout.  I am feeling it today though!  Both workouts were very tough, and I am sore, sore, sore this morning.  Yesterday I lifted more weights then I ever have, using 15lbs on each exercise, all though 1/2 the exercises were without weights.  I am still making progress with each workout.  I have found some very important things out.  Like my muscles grow at night, it helps me not to take it easy in a workout and I do better the earlier I workout.  All thing that I have learned by doing the workout and studying my results.

Today I am sore under my arms, on my shoulders, in my abs and my triceps.  These are all the places I worked extra hard yesterday.  My workout was early yesterday, so I had all day to recover.  I have used my cream a lot these last few day to get my muscles ready for the coming weeks.  Plus, I have doubled up on my Vemma to really control the muscle pain.  What I have noticed these last few workouts is my body is changing it's form and my muscles are getting bigger and stronger.  My pain levels have gone way down and I feel amazing.  Thanks P90X!

I am very interested to see the end result in just 25 days from now.  I am getting ready for Plyometrics later today, but because I am so sore from yesterday I am going to wait until later today to workout.  I like to workout early, but I don't want to push to far.

Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 63

Today was amazing, not only am I in Destin, FL, but X Stretch just made my day.  We are having to much fun on vacation that I decided to continue the P90X Journey right here in Destin.  I absolutely love what X Stretch does for my Fibromyalgia & Lupus.  It just amazes me each time I do the workout, how much better I feel. 

I am so looking forward to week 10, after that workout.  I am ready for the burn, I am pretty sure I will finish this workout, it's just a matter of what my two diseases will do when I finish.  Right now, I am doing pretty good, it will just depend on how hard I push these next few weeks.

I am not real sore today, which I expected that since I stretched my entire body out yesterday.  Really looking forward to a weight workout later today.  Looking ahead to Yoga, it is that awesome!

Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 62

Yesterday was Kenpo and another great workout.  My body has adjusted to the different workouts so far, they change from day to day, and that is why I think the muscle confusion is working. 

Kenpo, is one of those workout where you could bang your joints if you are not careful.  So instead of throwing punches and kicks, I spend more time using my whole body to do the workout.  I have found that my body responds better when I do this workout this way.  I really don't have soreness today, but the beach was very rough today and I think it beat me up worse than the workout did. 

Still I am following my routine even though I am on Vacation, this is the only way I could continue this workout.  I feel really good today, even though I took 2 days off for the trip up here to Destin.  I thought my body would be sore, but it's not that bad.  I am looking forward to X Stretch later today, this exercise will get me ready for the week, so I will do the whole workout tonight.

Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 61

Yesterday was Legs and Back and it kicked my tail yet again.  I have not mastered the easy workout week followed by a tough one.  I get very winded on the cardio workouts, but I am getting better.  I can say that my legs are feeling the workout last night, but it's not too bad.  Where? In my hamstrings and in my calf muscles.  My legs are not tired though, I just feel it when I bend over or squat down.  Other than those two things I am okay!

I like what this workout is doing for me and for my Fibro., I am gaining some much needed strength in my lower body and legs.  This helps me at work and it is one reason I am getting further and further into this workout.  The Legs and Back workout is very tough!  There are a lot of lunges with and without weights, makes for a long workout because Ab Ripper X is afterwards, my legs always feel like jello.

P90X, is intense and the muscle confusion is working for my Fibro. & Lupus, time will tell if it works like I want it to.  I am looking forward to Kenpo, but I am waiting to do it on Saturday in Destin, FL.  This time tomorrow I will be on vacation, relaxing and continuing my Journey.

Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 60

I have reached another milestone in this amazing Journey, Day 60!  When I set out to do this workout I really never thought I would make it to this day.  But, I have and I am very proud!

Yesterday was Yoga, and I always know what I am going to get out of it, some hard working that will pay off later on.  All my life I have heard people talk about yoga and how awesome is it, I never listened, now I am hearing all those people all over again. 

If you have a muscle related disease, I want to offer a challenge to you, try Yoga.  You don't have to go all out like P90X, and Yoga X, but find a video at wal-mart and try it to ease your pain.  I love what this workout is doing for Fibro. it has completely changed everything.

I have made a ton of progress with this workout routine.  In the beginning I could not make it through the first 45 mins, it was too tough, now I can go all the way through the first 60 mins. doing all the different poses.  I never thought I would be here.  I am so proud of my progress physically and for my Fibro.  it turns out that P90X has been the best thing to happen to me all year.

I have put some of this workout in my routine, because it is so good.  I now have something to look forward to each and everyday, and this workout has given new life with my Disease.

I want to encourage all the readers to try something, it may not be P90X, but get off the couch and start stretching, work Yoga into a routine, lift weights (they can be small ones), you will thank yourself later in life.
I am looking forward to Legs and Back later today, this workout always pushes me to the limit.

Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 59

Wow! Shoulders and Arms + Ab Ripper X just kicked my tail, I pushed a little with this workout today and I thought I would pay for it this morning, but I was good.  This is a complete testament to my routine, which I started right after the workout.  I know without a doubt in my mind that I would not be able to do any of this workout.
Today, I lifted more weight than I ever had, I was completely worn out afterwards, but I recovered very fast, thanks to Two Old Goats and Vemma.  These 2 things mixed with a little stretching has allowed me to accomplish so much. 

The Ab Ripper X is still impossible for me to complete, but I will keep pushing myself to one day complete this workout.  I have made it further and further with each new time that I have done it, so I will just keep pressing forward.

Now, I know that through this workout most of my soreness comes on the second day after we do weights, so I will just have to wait and see if this happens again.  All in all, most people with Fibro. deal with pain right after a workout, so I am blessed to not have do deal with this on an everyday basis.  I love what my routine has given me day in and day out.
I am getting ready for Yoga , can't wait for this workout!
Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 58

Yesterday was Plyometrics and what a workout!  I just thought I was ready for this workout, I got tired real quick, but was able to finish strong.  However, I had to skip some of the exercises in order to finish strong, but I only skipped them once, you see with this workout you do 4 exercises and then repeat them.  So even though I did skip a few, it was still a great workout.

Plyometrics is more of a cardio workout, than it is legs!  This workout take me to the limit each and every time I do it, and I dig that.  I can say that my legs felt like jello afterwards, but I was quick to start my routine ASAP, so that I could recover for today's workout.  I am in the best shape of my life right now and I have lost 22 pounds and gained so much muscle that I never thought possible.  Now the question remains, will this change my disease.  Only time will tell!

I just noticed today that I have added muscles in my legs and arms, maybe they were always there, but not as big as they are now.  When I stretch my legs I see muscles I have never seen before, this is so amazing!  Workouts like Plyometrics, these are the ones that help build these muscles.

Yesterday's workout might prove to be one of the best ones so far in this Journey.  Why?  It was the first time I was winded and tired, but i had the strength to push through.  This was the first time I had experienced this in the 57 days that I have been doing P90X.  So to me this is the turning point of this Journey, the next few days will tell a whole lot.
I am looking forward to today's workout,
Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 57

Yesterday was pretty tough, but I was able to finish the workout.  I had taken 2 days off one of the days was for me, the other was because I worked real late.  I thought that it was going to be hard for me to get back into the swing of things, but so far today I do not feel that.  I know it may take a day or two, and also, I lifted weights yesterday, probably the most I have so far in this workout routine. 

I have found that if I take it easy on my body, I feel it more than if I push a little.  So, since I have figured this out I have been pushing a little harder with each new workout.  Yesterday was Chest & Back + Ab Ripper X, so it was a very tough workout.  There were a lot of Push ups, pull ups and weights.  Despite all the different exercises I was able to push through and finish strong yet again.  I have leaned on my routine a lot today, and will continue to do so throughout the day. 

In the beginning of this workout I used 5lbs weights on just about every exercise.  Now, I have upgraded to 15lbs and 20lbs on each workout.  I am not really looking for big muscles, but I do want to give this workout a chance to do what I hope it can for my Diseases.  So far the muscle confusion is working, my muscles stay confused most of time, and that is my hope all the way to the end and beyond.

Usually when I lift with this workout, it takes a couple of days for the real muscle soreness to set in, but I usually feel a little on the day after.  Today I feel no real soreness, besides what I feel all the time.  That soreness is always the same, so I know the difference in the two.

I am getting ready for Plyometrics later today, Jump training!
Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 56

X Stretch is an amazing workout, but I only did half of the workout today.  Instead of doing all this workout, I did half of the X Stretch and the first Half of Yoga X.  I really needed both today, so I changed it up a little and it was worth the change.  I felt so much better after that workout, so it was needed, plus it allowed me to get prepared for these next 4 weeks of workouts without a break.

X Stretch has completely changed my life and my body.  I am a different person physically because of this workout, it has changed everything for me.  I even think this workout has changed my disease.  I recover faster and faster each time I do this routine, I know that over the next couple of weeks my body will be put to the test and I will have to lean on my routine heavily to get me through.  I am looking forward to these next few weeks, sounds crazy but it is true.

Right now I feel amazing, I can't wait to get to the end to see how I will feel then.  I know what I have to do!  I just have to do it!

Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 55

Yesterday, was an amazing workout Core Synergistics works your body to the core.  This workout is building so much strength, and it has been good for my Fibromyalgia as well.  However, I was very sore today after such a great workout. 

I like the exercise, because it is different, the workouts are designed to mix and shake things up.  When they put the muscle confusion part of this workout together, I think this was at the top of the list.  There are so many non normal exercises involved in this workout.  I know that sound weird, but allow me to explain. 

Throughout this workout I have done push ups, but not like we did in Core Synergistics.  The push ups in Core Synergistics:

• Stacked Foot Staggered Hand Push Up- the idea is to involve the core in the whole push up
• Sphinx Push Up- rest the forearms on the floor and raise up into a push up, by pushing up from the ground.
• Prison Cell Push Up- do a regular push and bring your knee in to touch your elbow, then do another push up and bring the other leg in to touch the other elbow, then stand up and raise your arms up and then back down for another round.
• Walking Push Ups- in a push walk your hands forward four time keeping your legs engaged and not raising your butt, walk forward and then back.
• Reach High and Under Push Ups- do a regular push up, come up and balance on one arm reaching the other arm up in the air and then reach that same arm under and reach as far as you can, then repeat the other side.

These are just the push ups, there are about 15-20 other routines mixed in, as you can see this workout is tough to say the least. 

Today will more than likely be an easy day for me, but I will make the most of it.  These next few weeks will be far from easy, so I have to prepare for this physically and mentally, but I think I am ready for Hell.
I getting ready for the ride of my life,
Kevin

Day 54

Somehow, I skipped a workout, it was Kenpo, and man what a workout this was.  The day I did this exercise I had to work 13 hours at Walmart and I could have skipped the workout, but I didn't.  I was tired but I was able to push through the workout, which speaks volumes for my Routine.  I pushed through because I had the stamina to do so. 

I was able to do the complete workout from start to finish, something that had been missing from the previous workouts.  Part of the reason this is possible is the core strength that I have added over the course of this workout.  Plus, I have more energy, the proof is how I am able to finish even though I have had a hard day.  People at work are starting to notice my confidence, and that is a direct result of this P90X Workout.

In the beginning I was not sure what Kenpo would bring to the table, but now I know!  This exercise bring two things; added strength in my arms and legs, and added Flexibility.  At first I didn't think I was going to get anything out of this workout, but now I see where it fits into the scheme of things.

I look forward to this workout now, so I will be ready for it in week 9 and I will try not to miss the post for this workout then either.  I still can't believe that I am almost in Week 9, just amazes me every time I think about it.
Bring It,
Kevin

Day 53

What? Another amazing workout, but it was X Stretch.  I love what these last two workouts are doing for me.  The set up is perfect, and I am so looking forward to the end result.  X Stretch does more for my Diseases than I could ever explain, but I will try.

Yesterday was different to say the least, about noon my lower back was cramping up, it felt like rain, for the last 5 years I can tell you when the weather is changing, and I don't have to be outside.  So, I did X Stretch about 2pm, but I still had the uncomfortable feeling in my lower back, so I decided to stretch a little throughout the rest of the day.  About 6 we went to a basketball game and i told everyone there it was going to rain soon, they all looked at me like I was crazy, there was not a cloud in the sky.  But by the time the game was over a storm moved in and dropped an inch or two of rain.  It is amazing how Fibromyalgia has changed my ability to see the change in weather.  As for my pain most of it was gone when the rain left, but there was still a lot of soreness afterwards, X stretch took care of all of that soreness.

Today, I woke up feeling so good, it is just amazing to me how stretching changes everything.  This exercise is designed to stretch everything from head to toe, and it does just that.  I am really using this week to prepare me for week 9-12, because I do not get a break like I did in week 4 and 8, the break week comes in week 13.  So once this week is done there will be a lot of lifting, push ups, and pull ups, but not much down time.  I can almost guarantee that during these weeks I will be using a lot of X Stretch and the Yoga X Stretches.

I am ready for Core Synergistics later today!
Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 52

Yesterday was AWESOME!

Yoga is a complete workout and my body is starting to adjust to the different poses and I am getting stronger, and I know this because I can hold the poses longer.  Plus, my balance is so much better now than it was in the beginning of Yoga.  I was horrible at the balance part of the poses when I first started the P90X workout, but now my feet are so much stronger and it makes this exercise go much smoother. 

Yoga is a different animal, I never knew that it could do so much for me and my diseases, but it has.  There is a lot of flexibility involved in doing this exercise, and I am not where I want to be but I am getting there very slowly. This is the only workout that I do not use the cream on, because I leave this workout feeling refreshed and relaxed.  I use the cream (two old goats) to do just that!  I am surprised that I don't need it though, because this exercise stretches so many different muscles, but I think it also relaxes them in the process.

There is so much to this workout, it is hard to post all the good stuff here in this blog.

If you were to tell me when I started the P90X series that I would fall in love with Yoga, I would not have believed you at all.  Now, that I am 52 days into this workout, I am completely amazed at how much I do love this workout.

What do I love about Yoga X?
The upward dogs,
The downward dogs,
Warrior One,
Warrior Two,
Crescent Pose,
Warrior Three (which i just did for the First time today),
Half Moon (Still can't do, but working on this one)
All the different stretches:
Frog,
Glute Stretch,
Single leg hamstring,
Happy Baby,
Seated Spinal Stretch,
All The different Balance Poses:
Tree,
Royal Dancer,
Standing Leg Extension

There is still more in this workout but I will wait to post about them.  I just love what this workout does for me, and my hope is that it will inspire more people to add Yoga X to their routine.  I am doing this to change my diseases and that is my only focus, so far it is working, and I hope it continues. 

Now, all of that is important, but there is one thing that you will have to have in order to attempt this.  What is it?  A Routine, on that does for you like mine does for me.  If you want to see my routine, just look at the page in this blog that is devoted to just that. 

I know that I have done very well with this Workout, and I am even thinking about becoming a Beach Body Coach, because of how well I have done.  But, hear me when I say this, my routine is what has allowed me to get this far, without it I would still be on my couch at home wishing I could do something like this.
Yes, a great ROUTINE is that important!

Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 51

Yesterday's workout was awesome, I hadn't done Core Synergistics in 3 weeks, and I was geared up for this workout, because of the Yoga workout the day before.  Now, the workout was tough, very tough! 
I think the difference is I am stronger now than I was when I first did this workout.  The added strength does make a difference, in this workout because this exercise works the total body.  There are some weights involved, but not heavy, like 5lbs and you are moving with them so it is different than lifting. 

I was very sore today, and I knew I would be, but after my morning stretch and shower I was good for most of the day.  Today was tough on me mentally but I was good physically, and that's was supprising to me.  I think I am going to like this workout though, because it works muscle groups that I don't use.  This is very good for my Fibromyalgia and Lupus.

Overall so far I have lost 19lbs and I ahve added a lot of muscle in places I wouldn't have thought possible.  With each new workout I am feeling less and less pain in the Fibro. world.  That is different for me, the last 5 years have been nothing short of Hell on earth, so this is a relief for me.  I am pushing my self so far beyond what I thought was possible, but it is working, so I am going to stick with it for now.  I am looking forward to Kenpo tonight and then I get to do Yoga again. I can't wait!

Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 50

Yoga, need I say more!  I will but, I just want you to get what this workout does for me.  This is by far the hardest workout and the longest.  The workout is 1 1/2 hours long and worth every minute.  I was able to do more of it today than I ever have, it sounds like a broken record, but it's the truth.  When I started Yoga back in May, I was terrible at it, now I am getting used to the Routine and it is paying off.  My body is getting stronger and stronger and the proof is in the Yoga Poses.  In the beginning I could not hold a pose long at all, now I can hold them almost as long as they do on the video.  Also, I am going further and further in each workout.  This is the strength I was speaking of earlier!

Yoga has changed my life and my diseases!  This is very hard to put into words but it is happening right before my eyes.  I no longer struggle with pain throughout the day, a testament to P90X and to Yoga.  When I started this workout back in May I wasn't sure how things would go, I can say that I never dreamed of the results I am seeing right now.

I have lost 19lbs and I am gaining new muscle everyday.  This workout is right for me and my hope is that it will be right for others with muscle diseases.  I am only in Day 50, but hopefully by the time I am at the end, my results will give hope to others.

Yoga X leaves my body wanting more each time I do it, this was not the case early on with this workout.  I was struggling to finish each workout, especially this one.  Now, I can finish strong with each workout and it's because of Yoga.
I am looking forward to Core Synergistics Tonight, my body may not be as ready as I want, but I will finish strong.
Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 49

X Stretch is amazing, I have worked most of this exercise into my daily routine because it does so much for my body and my Diseases.

This is a complete stretch workout, it stretches everything from your neck to your toes.  The layout of the workout is also so good to the body it just blows my mind.  I can not believe how much I love to stretch now, before I started this workout in May, I think I stretched only when I was hurting.  Now, I stretch so many times a day it funny!  If I knew that stretching would make me feel this way I would have started this a long time ago.  I know that this will always be apart of my routine, and as I move on in this workout and the others that follow, my stretching will only get better.  To think I was the most unflexible person in the world just a few months ago.  I can now touch the floor in a straight leg stretch.

I feel this workout in every area of my body, it take my trigger points out of the mix, I wish I would have found this years ago.  I am so looking forward to Yoga X tonight!
Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 48

Yesterday was different, I was able to complete the workout, but my left shoulder is feeling some pain.  This is the first time I have had to deal with this, not bad to be in day 48 though.  I depended on my routine much more today than I have so far in this Journey.  I really think I slept on my shoulder wrong, because I didn't push myself very far in the last two workouts.  I have spent the last 2 days relaxing, and stretching as often as I think about it, this has helped so much.
Before I went to sleep last night I stretched for about an hour and then I applied the two old goats cream.  This morning when I woke up the pain was almost gone, so I stretched one good time early and now I feel really good, also I applied the cream again after the stretch.

Kenpo, was a very good workout!  I was able to do all of the workout yesterday, that surprised me with a sore shoulder.  I was very cautious all day, didn't want to mess something up, so I took it easy.  The whole routine is designed around punches and kicks.  Instead of throwing punches, I used my body more so that I didn't bang my joints.  I have done this the last three times this workout has come up and I am seeing more results with each workout.  I love the moving and cardio in this workout, and my legs are getting so much stronger because of workouts like this.

I have to say this, my routine is awesome!  If I didn't have it I would not be here.  My routine gave me the time to heal today and yesterday, without it I probably would have had to take a break.  I am so looking forward to X Stretch today, and the start of week 8 on Friday.  Bring It!
Kevin

Day 47

Yesterday was a good but hard workout. The focus was on the legs and Back, and those are not my strong areas.  Both are areas where I need to add strength, and so far I have.  I still feel like I have a long way to go though.  The workout switches from legs to pull ups almost all the way through the workout, which is good, it gives the legs a mini break.
Overall I like the workout, but my body does not, I am always very sore after this workout, so I guess it is good that I am off this time around.  The pull ups have my shoulders feeling a little stiff, I will have to stretch this out before I start the next workout. 

Legs & Back is a great workout, but it's a very tough one.  I have struggled with this workout because there are a few balance exercises in this workout.  For some reason I am not good at the balance exercises, I was always good at those things when I was growing up, but how the tides have changed as I have gotten older. 

I feel like I am getting stronger in my legs though, I remember early on in this workout I could not do a lot of the exercises.  Now, I can do them all, I just can't do them as long as Tony and his crew.  The Ab Ripper X workout at the end was brutal, my legs were like jello before we started so I did some of all the different exercise.  The last time I did this workout I was able to finish strong, but the workout before the AB Ripper X workout was not legs.  I have struggled with this from the very beginning, but I am getting better.
All in all I love what these two workout do for my body, and time will tell if the workout will continue to improve my body and my disease.
I am looking forward to Kenpo later today.
Until Tomorrow!
Kevin

Day 46

Yesterday, was amazing!  Yoga is a workout I have been looking forward to the last few weeks, because of what it has given me.  I love what I am getting from this workout for my body and my diseases. 

I have been able to do more and more of Yoga with each new workout.  I am amazed at how far I have come with P90X and all the different workouts.  I look forward to each workout, but I can't wait for Yoga to come, I am always looking ahead.  When I first started this workout I could do about 10 of the poses, and they were not very good.  Now, I can do all but three of the poses and I am surprised by how well I can do the poses, I still have a lot of room for improvement, but it is a start.

One of the things that yoga has given me is muscle memory, the more I do this workout the more my muscles remember.  Also, the more I do this Routine the more my Fibro. lets go.  This sounds crazy but I feel it the next morning.  Before I ever did this exercise I would wake up feeling the workout.  Now when I do this exercise I wake up the next morning feeling awesome, I have never been at this point since being diagnosed with Fibro/Lupus.  I am pretty sure this is a direct result of how far I have come with Yoga. 
My muscle feel so good right now, I just can't explain it to you.  I would challenge anyone with this disease to give Yoga and X Stretch a try, you will not be disappointed.

I am looking forward to Legs and Back later today, I am almost done with week 7 of P90X and I am pumped right now.
Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 45

Yesterday was a ver good but hard workout, Back and Biceps is very tough on the body and my muscles, but it's what Tony Horton like to call the glamor muscles.  This workout gives you those muscles that evryone talks about when you are out in public.  I am not sure that I will have those muscles, but I am trying!

Today I am not as sore as I was the first time around, I think there are a couple of reasons why this is happening.  First, the muscle confussion is still working with each and every workout.  The different exercises incorporated into this workout are in the order they are in to keep your muscles guessing what is coming next.  Secondly, my routine allows me to work pretty hard and then recover faster than someone who does not have a routine.  People with Fibromyalgia, often try to workout but the pain becomes to great while they are working out or shortly after each workout that they quit.  I feel like what I do each and everyday is what allows me to compete in the workout and finish strong, without the pain and cramps that most deal with on a daily basis.  My routine is something that I do everyday, and I pretty much do the same things day in and day out. 

Today's workout was very tough, there are a lot of pull ups and a ton of curls.  The focus is mostly on the biceps and it switches to pull ups to confuse the muscles, and it is working as far as I can tell.  I like this workout though, it is doing so much for my upper body, my strength and stamina.  I am so looking forward to Yoga tomorrow, I just can't tell you how much I love what this workout has and is doing for me and for Fibromyalgia.  Maybe tomorrow I can begin to share with you how Yoga is changing my disease.

Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 44

Plyometrics, is another complete workout, that kicked my butt.  Again I was unable to complete the workout, I was winded by the end.  I was so tired at points I had to skip and move on to the next workout.  However, I did push myself more today than I have in the past.  When I first started these workouts I wanted to make sure I could do the before I pushed myself, now that I know I can make it I have been finishing exercises that I didn't do early on.  This is the main reason I am not finishing each workout. 

The other reason is my fault, since I was young I have always loved Dr. Pepper, but I believe that my love for this drink will have to come to an end.  I have always known drinking the Pepper kills your wind and make you tired.  I know without a doubt, that this is one reason I can not finish this workout.

My goal is to get off the Pepper, even though I love it, I know that to finish strong with this workout I will have to let this go.  Plyometrics is a cardio workout that pushes me to the limit, and I will need all the help I can get to finish strong with this Workout.

I really love what this workout is doing for me though, I can feel how this exercise is helping me on a daily basis, and I love it!  I am looking forward to Back & Biceps tomorrow, I can already feel the pain, more weights.
Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 43

Yesterday was amazing, but I am feeling it today and tomorrow will be worse.  I can already feel the soreness setting in, and my arms are very heavy.  I pushed a little in this workout today, so I know that my body will be feeling the results of that soon.  Today, I did Chest, Shoulders & Back, plus AB Ripper X and I was able to do more of each workout than I have in the past.  I feel my body getting stronger and it shows with each new day.

What I like about this workout?
It is a pure core strength Routine that uses different style push ups and weights to build strength in areas that are not used often. 

• Example, there is a exercise called scarecrow, I use 8lbs weights, picture a scarecrow in the field with arms up, keep your elbows in one place and rotate your arms up and down. 
• Another example, take the smallest weight, I use 3lbs, put your arms straight out to you side and keep them up by locking your elbows in place. Take your weights and turn your hands down like you are pouring tea in a glass.
• Another example, push ups, not your everyday ones though, take a plastic plate put in on your carpet and slide your arm out as you go down to do a push up. Repeat on each side.
• And another, one arm push ups, okay so you do them on your knees to start, but they still are very hard.  You have to go down as far as you can, by supporting your weight with your upper body.

These are just a few of the different exercises within this workout, bu the whole workout keeps your muscles confused to a point where you can focus on each exercise.  This is what I love about P90X, my muscles stay confused throughout the workout and they don't catch up until a few days later.  At this point my routine kicks in and I do not feel most of the pain.  So many have asked how I am able to do this workout, this is How!

I have needed more stretching over the past couple of days, so I have done that a lot.  I am so amazed that my routine has held up this long, but very grateful that it is that good.  I have added different things to it, like the stretching and Verve, The energy drink from the Vemma series. 

I am looking forward to Plyometrics today,
Until Next Time,
Kevin

Day 42

What an amazing workout yesterday was!  I am so glad I started this amazing journey, if not I would not have found X Stretch.  I have actually added part of the stretches to my daily routine to help me recover even faster.  Since I love this exercise and what it does for me and Fibro. I thought now would be a great time to share with you all the stretches involved in this workout.  Maybe you would like to try it yourself!

Sun Salutations (Vinyasas) (3 Reps)
Stand with feet together at front of mat palms together at chest.  Inhale, reaching arms up, exhale open arms and swan dive forward, bending over legs. Place hands on the floor, inhale up to flat back (for one beat), exhale forward placing hands on either side of feet. Gently step back or jump back into Chaturanga (bottom of a push up position).  Inhale, pulling torso forward and up into Upward Dog pose. Exhale, pushing up hips and torso into Downward Dog, inhale bending knees and looking between hands, and hop feet forward to hands.  Keeping hands on the floor, straighten legs.  Keeping back and legs strong, inhale into reverse swan dive ending with fingers skyward. Exhale to palms together at chest.  (Repeat)

Neck Stretch
Reach arm behind body (above waist) and grab wrist of that arm with other hand.  Pull on arm while tilting head in opposite direction of arm you are pulling.  Repeat on other side.

Back Up The Car
Place arms straight out in front of you at shoulder height. Keeps arms stable and turn head slowly to look over left shoulder. Repeat other side.

Head Roll
Stand tall with arms at sides reaching to floor. Roll head from right shoulder down to left shoulder and back. 6 reps.

Chest and Shoulder Stretch
Reaching up with wide stance and slightly bent knee, plug your fingertips into the ceiling.  Release arms downward scraping the wall with your elbows, an amazing chest stretch.  Expand your chest outward as you scrape your elbows on the wall.

Topas Shoulder Stretch
In horse stance, start with hands in prayer position at chest.  Inhale and open arms out straight to sides, palms up, thumbs pointing behind you.  Exhale back to prayer position. (3 reps)

Wrist-Forearm Flex Stretch (20 Sec.)
While on hand and knees, point fingers out away from body. lean slowly side to side 10 times, feeling the stretch.  From same position, placing palms flat on the floor with fingers pointing backwards towards knees.  Slowly lean back until stretch is felt. Hold for 20 seconds.

Glute Stretch (My Favorite Stretch)
While lying on you back, place your right ankle on your left knee, reach you hands through on both sides and either grab your left knee or left thigh and pull towards your chest while lying on your back.  Continue to breath and extend stretch further with each exhale. Repeat on other side.

There are 34 different Stretches in this workout, so I do not have enough space to show them all today.  But I will continue to share in bits and pieces what different stretches we do in this amazing workout.
Until Next Time,
Kevin