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

Day 41

Kenpo mixed with Legs & Back a good combination, but my body is very sore this morning.  I did both of these workouts in one day, Legs & Back yesterday morning and Kenpo last night.  I have to say that I am very sore this morning, but it's a good sore.  I was impressed with how my body held up for both workouts.  The first workout was very tough on me, I was able to do more of the workout this time through.  With the Kenpo exercise I did the whole thing didn't miss a punch or kick, and my body is telling the story today.

I can say that I haven't been this sore in a very long time, but it won't last very long, because X Stretch is later today and I will be feeling good after that workout.  I have a little tightness in my hamstrings and shoulders, I will have to focus on these areas this morning to relieve that before I can start my workout later.  Other than this I feel pretty good! 

Kenpo, is more of a cardio workout, there are a lot of punches and kicks in this workout.  It's a perfect workout to end the week off with, besides the X Stretch exercise that you can skip or do. I have been so surprised how well my body as accepted this workout, I never thought I would be at Day 41, now that I have gotten to this point there is no reason I can't make it to 90.
This is Day 41 of this amazing journey, and I would not be here without my routine.  This routine has gotten me to this point and it is the only reason I am able to recover and make it through the next workout.  I start each day with Vemma 2oz shot of liquid miracle, this shot takes care of all the inflammation and muscle cramps, which is huge for me and this workout.  Because of Vemma I can focus on other things and not have to worry about dealing with cramps and spasms, awesome just awesome.  I then use two old goats a cream used to take away the soreness that comes with this workout.  I have added a 5-10min stretch routine that is helping add flexibility and relief throughout the day.  #1 reason I can do this workout!

Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 40

Chest and Back is done, remind me not to skip a day ever again.  I was working late yesterday at Walmart, and by the time I got home, everyone was in bed.  So I skipped last nights workout, and did it this morning.
The workout was tough, to say the least, I was able to do most of the workout, but I did struggle with a few exercises.  However, I was able to finish strong on the ones I was able to do.  Tony Horton says, to make the last three reps count, and that is where my focus was today.  I finished strong in all of the exercises that I was able to do and made the last three reps hurt.
I have upgraded my workout, I used to use the bands to do pull ups, now I use the Iron Gym pull up bar that my son has.  I still can't do a pull ups the traditional way, but I am able to use a chair to support my weight with one leg.  This has allowed me to get more out of the workouts, I have done this on the last two that had pull ups.  I starting to notice definition in my arms and chest, and I think the switch will help that continue to improve.  The bands are good but I feel like the pull ups help me more than the bands do right now.

The exercises that I struggled with were lunges, I was completely worn out by the time we got to these, and I just took a break during 2 different exercises.  It was a much needed break that allowed me to finish strong at the end.  This workout is not to build just strength, I am using P90X to change my disease.  I think for the most part it is working.  This is something that I have talked about lately and will continue to talk about it as I go through this workout.

My routine is the reason I am able to push with this workout.  I drink Vemma every morning and two old goats cream as often as I need to relax my muscles.  I have recently added a stretch routine to my recovery part of this whole deal to help me recover faster and to allow me to get the most out of each workout.  Right now this is working very well for me, there might come a time when I have to adjust my routine and when it comes I will adjust.  Why change something that is working?
Later today I will do Kenpo, and get my body ready for X Stretch tomorrow, I can't wait!
Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 39

Yoga, what an amazing workout!  To think, I couldn't reach past my ankles when I first did this Workout.  Today, I was able to touch my ankles!  WOW, how amazing is that!

I know when yoga is coming now, my body tells me when it's time to do Yoga, yea it knows.  I am conditioning my body and getting used to the Yoga and X Stretch workouts.  I actually can't wait for these two exercises to come around.  This routine does so much for me that it's hard to put into words, but I going to try.

The first 45 minutes of this workout will kick your butt, it doesn't matter if you are a pro or just beginning.  That is the best part about it, even when you learn the routine you will still get the workout of your life.  In the beginning I could not do most of the poses, but now my body has adjusted to the different ones, so much that I feel a huge difference from the beginning to now.  Now, don't think for a minute that the workout has gotten easier, not for a minute.  The workout is tough and long!  What I like about this workout?
It takes the soreness that the other workouts cause and relaxes it away.  That is so helpful, and the more you do it the better off you are.  I still struggle with the Balance Poses, but I am getting better, I actually practice them all the time.  I was at a Basketball game and I was standing up behind everyone and without even thinking about it I was practicing the poses.  I have completely sold out to this workout, and can't wait until it comes each time.  I never thought this would ever happen to me.  When you have a tool like Yoga to use, maybe not everyday, but enough to where it counts, it makes a huge difference in your life.  That is what P90X has done for me!  I have found myself talking to everyone about this workout and that is just not me.

See you in the morning,
Kevin

Day 38

Yesterday was very tough, but I kinda did it to myself.  I was going to take it easy in this workout, but instead I decided to go for it.  The workout was Back & Biceps, and I have always used 5lbs and 8lbs on every workout up until this workout today.  This time I went a little deeper into the workout and used 15lbs, on just about every exercise, now I did give my muscles some relief here and there by using 8lbs.

I am very interested to see how sore I will be from this workout!  I have learned that the soreness doesn't come until the 2nd day after the workout.  The only reason I went for it in this workout was because Yoga was the next workout after this one.  I have done so well with the yoga workout, blocking out everything and pushing forward.  I thought this was a great opportunity to change things up a bit, so I went for it.  Tomorrows post will have more info on what this does to my body.  As I am typing this I already feel a little soreness settling in, so I guess we will see.

My routine is what has gotten me to this point and I ramped it up a little after this workout, instead of one sot of Vemma this morning, I had 2 shots, plus I used the goat cream a little more today.  I will do the same tomorrow, just to make sure I take care of my body.  I still feel like this workout is changing me and my disease.  There really is no way to measure how much of a change is taking place, but I just have to trust my body and my Diseases to know that this will happen.

This workout so far is the toughest of them all, the concentration is on the biceps and there are a ton of curls, I have never seen so many different curls in one workout, but we did them.  I think the difference is, muscle confusion, there is something about this and Fibro., for some reason I can do this.  I still believe it's because of my routine, but I guess we will see.
I am so looking forward to Yoga tomorrow, can't wait!  The best things in life are not Free, So Bring It P90X!
Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 37

Yesterday was Plyometrics and I was able to do almost all of this workout.  There are only a few exercises that I struggle with, and those I do my best, but I still love this workout!  Because I am getting stronger with each workout, I am also getting better with each individual workout.  I love what P90X is doing for me physically and mentally. 
P90X is changing my body, with strength and energy.  I have more energy now than I have ever had, even when i was younger, and that's saying something.  When I started this workout I needed Verve Energy drink to get to this workout after a 12 hour day at Wal-Mart.  Now, I don't need that Energy drink, I have the energy to work those long hours and then finish strong in my workout at home.  That's because of workout like this one!  The cardio alone has given me more than I could ever have imagined. 
P90X is made me so tough mentally it's scary!  When I am at work I am so calm and under control and it because of this workout.  I now have the toughness to deal with the stress at work and home.  I have even taken a different outlook on my diseases.  I believe in this workout is changing my diseases and my body is starting to believe it as well.  This workout is awesome, but it is also very hard!  I am always looking forward to the next workout, and I am ready for what's to come!

Until Next Time!
Kevin

Day 36

Yesterday was amazing, it was weights and my muscles were very tired, but I pushed a little in the workout.  I am convinced that the muscle confusion is working and feel different with each new workout. This workout is probably the toughest workout with weights, and I was able to push myself to the limit in the workout.  I love what P90X is doing for me and for my diseases. 
With each new workout I have been able to add more, like with weights, I started with 5lbs on almost all the exercises.  Now, I am using 15lbs-8lbs on all the exercises!  I am gaining strength each and every day, and that is good for both me and my diseases.  I am a little surprised by how easy I have transitioned into these different workouts. 
I have had a little tweak in my arm from this workout, and I will take care of it and take it easy until it works itself out.  Other than that I am feeling good physically and mentally. 

I am ready to reach my 90 day goal, but I am not getting ahead of myself,  but my eyes are on the prize.  I am getting up for Plyometrics, so bring it P90X!

Until Next Time!
Kevin

Day 35

All I can say is WOW!  Okay I can say a little more than that, X Stretch is amazing, I think I'm going to do it again this morning.  I absolutely love what this workout is doing for me with P90X and for Fibromyalgia.

What it is doing for the workout?

• This exercise routine sets up all the other exercises
• Increased flexibility every time I finish it
• Increased stamina for future workouts
• Giving my muscles the relief it needs
• Allowing me to recover faster at the end of each week

What this workout is doing for Fibromyalgia?

• Increased Strength in areas that need it
• Stretching out all my problem areas: Shoulders, Back, Elbows and Arms, Hamstrings and Neck
• Giving relief to my pressure point: Rib cage area, Shoulders and Back, Hips and Lower Legs
• Increased Flexibility in all problem areas: Legs, Back, Hamstrings, Glutes, Forearms and Chest

If you can't tell this workout does more for me than any other, and I love it!

This workout stretches everything, it is much like Yoga but not as hard as yoga!

I am now looking forward to the start of week 6, bring it P90X!
Until Next time!
Kevin

Day 34

Yesterday was Kenpo, and it was another tough workout.  My legs were already tired from the legs and back workout the day before.  This routine is where you have to throw a lot of punches and kicks, so tired muscles make that hard.  I was able to get a lot from this workout, though.  I like what Kenpo does for my upper body, I am gaining stamina all through this workout. 
I have done the workout routine 5 times now, and this was the first time I did the whole thing all the way through.  I was able to finish strong in all the different exercises, something that has been missing from the beginning of this workout.  My body is changing and getting stronger, that has allowed me to do more with each new day. 

Kenpo, is not a tough workout, if I was to do this exercise by itself, I would be okay.  The different routines each night is what makes it so tough.  I have seen how each workout has a purpose, and that is what make P90X so awesome.  The muscle confusion has worked to this point and I am looking forward to moving on throughout this workout.  My personal routine is solid, it has gotten me to this point, and I will ride it to the end and start over again.
I am learning how to use the different workouts to get ready for the next one, it has taken me a while to figure it out, but now I know what to do. 
This workout is used to set up X Stretch, and the stretch workout is used to set you up for the whole week, you have the option to skip this workout, but for me X Stretch sets up the whole week, so I need these last two workouts in order to start the next week off right.
I am looking forward to X Stretch Tomorrow if you can't tell!  I love this workout more than any of the others.  X Stretch does more for my Fibromyalgia than any other workout in the P90X Series.
Until Tomorrow!
Kevin

Day 33

Yesterday was intense!  It had been a while since I have done Legs and Back, and I was not as ready for this workout as I thought I would be.  The workout was tough, I barley made it through the whole workout.  Of course, I had to stop about half way through the workout, to watch the end of the Dallas Mavs game 4.  It was a close game and I just had to watch.  They won!  The game gave me a much needed break, and allowed me to finish strong where I wouldn't have been able to do so.

Now, back to the workout, I was a little surprised by how difficult the workout seemed yesterday.  I was very sore this morning and through most of the day.  Right now I have a little tightness in my legs but most of the soreness is gone, I owe this to my Routine, I would not be where I am right now without it!

Legs and Back plus Ab Ripper X, kicked me in the butt and kept on kicking throughout the day.  The Ab workout was good, I actually finished strong in this 16 min. workout yesterday.  I am a little surprised that the Ab workout doesn't leave me sore the next day.  I thought this workout alone would really set me back, but so far it hasn't.  I am glad, because this workout is really helping me move closer and closer to where I want to be.
The Legs and Back workout is also helping, I am gaining so much strength in areas that I need so much.  I am excited about this workout and what I will continue to get from this workout.  In fact, each workout has it's own contribution to my success with P90X. 
I am looking forward to Kenpo tomorrow!
Bring it P90X!
Kevin

Day 32

Yesterday was awesome but very hard!  Yoga is everything I need and nothing like I thought it would be.  This workout is so good for Fibromyalgia and my muscles.  One would think that after 1 1/2 hours of yoga, one would be sore the next day, not the case though.  I am getting stronger and the workouts are getting easier. 
Yoga is hard, I never thought that yoga would be this tough.  I am still having trouble with certain poses, but I am getting better.  There are some I have done very well and had the strength to finish strong in those different exercises.  This is one of my focuses with this workout, finishing strong in each pose. 
I think that Yoga is doing so many great things for Fibromyalgia. Like; giving me much needed strength in areas that are weak, helping me with flexibility throughout my body and giving me extra energy day after day.
I am looking forward to what Yoga is going to give me and Fibro. in the future.  So far I am so excited about the results that I am getting from P90X. 

However, I want to remind those reading this blog, none of this would be possible without my daily routine.  I use 2 old goats to help me recover faster each and everyday and Vemma to control the inflammation in my body.  Without these 2 important key products none of this would be possible. 

Looking forward to Legs and Back Tomorrow!
Until Then,
Kevin

Day 31

Yesterday was so tough, I thought I would be hurting so bad today, but it wasn't that bad.  I worked out earlier in the day because I didn't have to work at Wal-Mart, so after the workout I added a stretch from X Stretch and I felt really good today.  I was so surprised!  I didn't do the whole workout, I just did the ones that focus on the area I worked on.
The workout was Back & Biceps, plus Ab Ripper X.  I actually raised the intensity a little in the workout, by using more weight than I have before.  I started with 15lbs, and later moved to 8lbs, and finished with 5lbs.
I was a little scared at first, but it turned out okay in the end. 
I feel my muscles changing each and everyday, my hope is that they will change enough to alter my disease Fibromyalgia.  I am not a doctor, but I feel this already happening.

I have been asked if I take anything for the pain. What I would say to that is no?  Five years ago when I was first diagnosed with Firbo. & Lupus, I followed my doctors orders and took Lyrica, Savella and other muscle relaxers, but they did nothing for me, just crazy side effects.  One year later I put all those meds down and found something that has not only worked for Fibro, but has allowed me to do this workout.  I believe that without this I could not do P90X.  This workout is so intense, that I would be cramping up all the time, I would not recover fast enough to even attempt the next workout.  I do sometime have cramps in the workout, but for the most part I have not had to deal with tightness and stiff muscles.  A direct result of Vemma and two old goats.  Both of these have given me the strength to do this workout routine.

I have a strict routine when it comes to recovery that allows me to press on, so anyone interested in doing this workout, I would encourage you to find something that will help you get through this workout.

I am looking forward to Yoga tomorrow!  I need this workout to help me get ready for legs and back!
Until tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 30

Yesterday was not as tough, it was plyometrics and I did everything but one exercise.  I was able to finish at the end of each different exercise, something that was missing early on with this workout.  I like what Plyometrics brings to the table, it is more of a cardio workout.  I think this workout brings me the added energy throughout the week.
When I first started P90X, I was unable to do this workout, my flexibility was part of the reason, the other reason was I was used to walking a lot at work, but not using the muscles that are used in Plyometrics.  This was the 5 time I have done this workout and it seems to be getting easier each time I do it.  One reason is I am getting stronger and stronger with each day that I complete.  I also think that every time a workout is completed and we move on to the next we are gaining the muscle memory in each of those workouts.  Muscle memory is important for me, it shows that this workout is doing what I hoped it would do, change my muscles for the better of my disease.
In fact; I still believe that my disease is changing, I feel different, it hard to explain, but I feel it each and everyday.  There are days where I push a little harder and there are days I don;t push at all, I just do the workout without giving any extra.  Both, are giving me what I need to make it to the next workout.
I am looking forward to the next workout, it's another new workout and I am ready to attack it. 
Until Tomorrow,
Kevin

Day 29

Yesterday was tough; Chest, Shoulders & Triceps, and what a workout.  I was pretty sore later in the day, and I am still sore in my neck and shoulders right now.  However, this was an intense workout with more weights than I am used to so far in this workout. 
The different exercises in this workout are designed to focus on muscles that will build definition and to get results.  I hope that with these next three weeks of doing the same workouts that I will take a step further in this Journey.  My muscles have changed over the last 5 weeks and the confusion has worked to this point, now I just need to make it through the next 3 weeks. 

Chest, Shoulders & Triceps:

• Slow Motion 3 in 1 push-ups- lower the body in 4 counts and then raise in 4 counts, then repeat in Standard and Military.
• Overhead Triceps Extension- I used 8lbs weights, holding weights, extend arms overhead.  Keep upper arms stationary and elbows from flaring outward. Lower weights behind head, then straighten arms back up then repeat.
•  Scarecrow- in a staggered stance hold light weights in each hand, raising arms so they are parallel to floor with elbows bent at 90 degrees.  Keeping elbows, wrists and upper arms locked, rotate weights up and back as far as you can.  Slowly return weights to starting position and repeat.
• Y-Press- holding weights or bands just above shoulders, press up and out slightly, so that at the top of the motion arms are in the shape of a Y.  Going to wide can result in injury.
• Pour Fly- using light weights raise arms straight out with dumbbells and tilt wrist to simulate a pouring motion.
• One Arm Push-Ups- on knees (separate as far as possible) place push-up hand on floor underneath shoulder and the other arm behind back.  Go as low as you can and switch hands each time.

These are just a few of the different exercises in this routine.  There are 25 all together to complete the workout and it is intense to say the least.  I am ready for the next workout Plyometrics, I am looking forward to what each workout gives me and my body.

I know that none of this would be possible without my routine, that I have followed since the beginning of this workout.  It is the sole reason I can do this workout, and continue each and everyday.  My routine allows me to recover faster each and everyday, so that I can continue with the next scheduled workout.

I am ready for that Beach Body!
Bring It P90X!
Kevin

Day of Rest

Today, I chose to take a break and rest! 

I have been working real hard these past few weeks, and felt like I need a break to allow my body to rest.  This was a good choice for me, I was really ready for the next workout, which I will share tomorrow.  I did spend a little time doing some of the stretches, just to say lose as possible.  I am very proud to be where I am right now.  Tomorrow starts week 5 and I never thought I would get to that point, but I am here and I have had to endure a lot to get here.  The next 3 weeks is going to be very tough, there is a lot of lifting in these workouts, the last week there was no lifting (or at least very little).  This extra day was good for my body and my mind. 

Until Tomorrow!
Kevin

Day 27

What can I say about yoga?  A Lot!
This workout is very good for the body, but it is a tough workout.  The hardest part about yoga is the poses and holding them as long as they do.  Next, would have to be doing the same poses over and over and my muscles getting tired.  I know that through time I will gain strength in those areas, and that only comes from doing as much as I can when I do this workout. 

About 30 minutes into this workout I was worn out.  I still continued on though, I know in moments like that the workout will make be better.  Those moments are when my muscles find relief, it sounds weird, but it is true.  When I was tired and ready to stop, I closed my eyes ad started tried to relax and feel the calm of the workout, in that moment I found the strength to finish.
I want everyone to understand how hard Yoga X really is.  This workout is 1 1/2 hours long, and it takes a lot out of you.  If you can make it through the first 45 mins. of this workout, then you can do this workout. 

I think that yoga is adding strength to the core parts of my body, and I really need that!  My back is getting so much stronger and my stretches have improved so much over the last 4 weeks.  I will need all of that next week as the real workout is about to start.  When I first opened the P90X workout, I looked ahead and thought I would never get to this point, in 2 days I start week 5 and I am so pumped.  Yoga has gotten me to this point!  I believe this!
Until next time,
Kevin

Day 26

I not real sure how to put this so I will say it the best way I know how.  Core Synergistics just kicked my tail!  This was by far the toughest workout so far, maybe it was because the week was a little easier than the other 3, but I did this routine just 2 days ago, and this time it did me in.  I was so sore this morning when I woke up, I had a hard time this morning.  This was the first time that I pushed myself and paid for it the next morning.  I think it was good for me though.  Now, I know that I can do it, just not every time!

Core Synergistics is a complete workout that uses muscles that I normally don't use.  I think that is why I was so sore this morning.  Still I haven't experienced the muscle cramps at night, a direct result of how well my routine is working for me not against me.  I recovered pretty fast today, even though I had to work at Wal-Mart today.  The exercises are awesome though, there were some I couldn't hold the whole time, but I got further than I did the first time. Improvement is what I am after each time I start a workout, I got that today!  I used weights for a little while longer than I did the first time, so again a little improvement.

Here are some of the exercises in this routine!

• Squat Run- bent into a squat use weights (I used 8lbs) and run in place only with your arms.
• Lunge & Reach- again I used 8lbs weights, lunge to the floor with both hands on the weight and turn and push the weight to the ceiling. (30 seconds on both sides)
• Side hip raise- lying on your side rest bottom of forearm on the floor with elbow directly under shoulder, lift your body off the floor with your forearm still on the floor, repeat on other side.
• Squat X Press- Again with 8lbs weights bend toward the floor with a straight back then press the weight upwards to form a X with the weights above your shoulders in a standing position.
• Plank to Chaturanga run- In a push up position run with your legs only keeping your butt a flat as possible, then lower like a push up keeping your body off the floor and run with your legs again.
• Lunge kickback curl press- start in standing position lunge to one side (again with 8lbs weights) hold weights up by ears and kickback keeping you elbows as steady as possible, bring weights back to your side while still in a lunge straighten your back or sit up and curl the weight, then press the weight to the sky, then reverse the curl and stand up straight and then repeat the other side. (Very Hard)

Those are just a few of the different exercises, this workout is a complete workout that will challenge you to the limits.  I am looking forward to Yoga tomorrow, I need the stretch so bad.

Until next time,
Kevin