You know how I always tell you all how I really enjoy not having a set workout schedule?
How I love being “free as a bird,” able to come and go when I please, choosing whichever exercises I’m in the mood for.
Well this is me…reneging on everything I’ve told you up to this point.
So why am I going back on my word?
Well, I’ve decided that I need a change and have officially begun the 10lb. Slimdown Xtreme Challenge.
I was sent a copy of the program to review from Exercise TV, and debated on whether or not I really wanted to fully commit to the challenge or if I just wanted to try out some of the different videos. After weighing my options, here’s what I came up with:
- I now have the DVD, so I have everything I need
- I’ve been itching for something new (BodyPump was starting to get a little dull)
- I have already enjoyed a couple of the videos
- I love Chris Freytag – she pushes you to work, but she’s super cute(!)
- I want to really push myself!
So, I’m DOING IT!
The Program
The program is a 28-day advanced training system separated into four weeks of total body, upper body, core, and lower body workouts. Muscle memory is shaken up each week for faster results by target toning each muscle group with isolated styles of training.
- Week 1 – total body circuit style workouts and kickboxing cardio
- Week 2 – focus on targeted upper body sculpt moves and yoga
- Week 3 – focus on core
- Week 4 – focus on lower body
Why I’m Doing It
The first thing that I want to emphasize is this: I am not doing the challenge to lose 10 pounds. I will be honest with you, however, and tell you that I wouldn’t mind losing about five. Many people I admire in the blog world have mentioned things about their “happy weight” and I will tell you that I know that I am not at mine.
This summer was filled with lots of treats. Between parties, weekends with friends, and vacations, things like ice cream and beer seemed to become regulars in my diet.
Tasty, yes. But not so awesome for all the jeans I can’t fit into.
Also, since being home more often, even though my workouts have been more frequent, my daily life is fairly sedentary. And with that, my snacking habits have gone a little crazy.
My main goals for taking on the challenge are simply to switch up my routine, and hopefully gain some new muscle definition. If I end up dropping a couple pounds in the process, that’s great; but that’s not my main purpose.
In terms of my eating habits, you probably won’t see much of a change with that and it’s not a huge focus in my decision to take on this new workout challenge. While the full Xtreme Workout DVD set comes with a meal plan, I was only sent the workout DVD and honestly, I wouldn’t have followed it anyways.
My meals, for the most part, are usually pretty healthy; it’s the mid-day snacking and after dinner sweets that I really need to work on, which you guys don’t normally see anyways (I definitely don’t document everything I eat).
My Plan Of Attack
Last night, I reviewed the workout plan and had to alter things a bit to come up with my own plan. Since I’d “officially” be starting it today, on a Wednesday, I still wanted my recovery day to be on a Sunday.
So this morning, I decided to just start with Day 3; I’ve already taken a BodyCombat class this week and did cardio yesterday, so I figured it wasn’t too far off.
Today’s Workout was Lower Body + Abs – I had already done the abs so I knew what to expect with that, but that lower body routine was definitely tough. WOW. I guess it’s a good thing I want to push myself!
*****
I’m really looking forward to this new challenge and honestly don’t feel like the set workouts are going to be a problem for me (I say this now, it is only day 3…).
**If there’s anyone out there who thinks they might want to follow along with me on the challenge by doing the workouts On Demand (if it’s available to you) or if you already have the DVD, let me know! I’d love to start a group where we could all motivate each other, whether you follow the full challenge, or just try a few of the different workouts. It could be super fun AND motivating!
*****
And now, since I’ve already talked your ear off on this way more than I anticipated (woops!), I’ll wait to fill you guys in on the awesome breakfast that was had a little later. It was amazing!
Questions for the Morning:
When was the last time you really pushed yourself with a workout?
Have you ever followed any sort of workout challenge (i.e., P90X, etc.)?
Cat @Breakfast to Bed says
Jif Natural is the best peanut butter on the planet. It makes me want to do bad things with mr peanut. I love it so hard. Also, beer. This is a problem.
Khushboo says
That sounds like an interesting plan! You look great but I can understand what you mean about not feeling it mentally! Even a few pounds off can make a world of difference! Good luck and looking fwd to reading more about it :D
Mandee @ Mandeelicious says
i really want to try this because I am SO BORED with the gym! i just wish it wasn’t $55 haha.
Laura says
I seriously was just thinking yesterday how I need something to shake up my workouts. This looks fun and so easy that it’s On Demand so I think I will join you! What weights do I need for the workouts?
Courtney says
You’ll need a lighter and a heavier – maybe 5lbs & 8lbs? or you can go lower with 3’s, higher with 10’s…I need to get a pair of 8’s. I was using Jay’s (I think they were around 12lbs?) and they were too heavy and bulky!
Laura says
thanks courtney!
Gina @ Running to the Kitchen says
Yay! I love following along when people do these “challenges.” I did Jillian’s 30-day shred last year and loved it. I was completely gung-ho about it for the first 2 weeks but eventually it got a little redundant even as I moved up levels. can’t wait to see how you make out with this one.
Cait @ Cait hates Cake says
Good for you! I’ve never done a fitness challenge before, so I’m interested to see what you think!
Andrea @ Andrea out loud! says
Maybe it is something in the air because I am definitely having the same feeling lately of wanting a challenge. I just started a new program similar to crossfit (I went to my first session last night) and can tell I am going to LOVE it and with it being scheduled like a class I will feel obligated to go.
It looks like fun! So have fun and good luck (not that you need it!)
Krissie J says
I wish I could do DVDs at home, but there is a wee bit of a problem with my basement (where the TV is). When I stand up straight and extend my arms, I push up the ceiling tiles! It makes for some very awkward yoga, let me tell you. That said, I may try to come up with my own challenge to do at the gym since I am now off race-training and can be more varied with my workouts. I also never follow suggested meal plans and just work in what fits with our scheduled meals. Good luck and I am sure you’ll hit your goal! :D
Courtney says
Hahaha…that was a funny visual. Thanks, Krissie ;)
Colleen @ The Lunchbox Diaries says
Good for you! :) My latest challenge is deciding to run a half marathon (what the hell am I doing?!) and while it’s tough, I really have noticed a change in my confidence level. There’s nothing like running 5 miles when you know that three weeks ago you wouldn’t have even entertained that idea ;)
Courtney says
I saw that, girl!!! Way to go!
You’re gonna rock that thing! ;)
Briana says
Hey Courtney! Just wanted to say that your blog is the first one I ever started reading and I’ve never commented till now but thought I finally should! I know what you mean about Chris Freytag, I did her workouts On Demand at home ALL summer! Sadly I don’t have On Demand when I went back to school so I had to buy some of her videos, though I’ve never seen the Extreme ones until you posted about them. Sounds like a good challenge!
Courtney says
Thanks for commenting, Briana! I’m so glad you enjoyed the videos :)
Melissa says
I’m so excited for you! I’m sure you’ll do great! :)
My last hard workout was this morning–a speed workout on the treadmill for my half marathon training. I love doing this type of training because it IS challenging and I really have to push myself. Whenever I want to stop, I will tell myself, “it’s only X more minutes! You CAN do it!!!” Such a great feeling of accomplishment.
Can’t wait to hear about how it goes for you!
Alyssa @ Life of bLyss says
gosh, this sounds so cool for a workout mixup! I’d love to join in and get the DVD… AFTER the full marathon. ;) can’t wait to see how it works for you!
Jenny says
Having workout goals definitely helps me to motivate – especially with the transition from summer to fall. Good luck!! ps those ice creams look so delicious :)
Ashley @ My Food 'N' Fitness Diaries says
This is awesome! A new challenge is always exciting and motivating. To be honest, it’s kind of refreshing to hear that other healthy bloggers still struggle sometimes with snacking a bit too much or having one too many beers (because I certainly do at times!). Can I find that DVD at like a Best Buy? or do I order it online? Where would you recommend finding it?
Courtney says
The only place I’ve seen it to buy is from the Exercise TV website. I’m not sure if somewhere like Best Buy would be carrying it..?
Faith @ For the Health of It says
My last big-push workout recently was a five mile run on Monday. I was able to do it -woohoo! I think today will be a hot yoga day to cross-train but next time I hit the treadmill I’ll be pushing myself to do two miles at race pace!
Karen says
I am planning to get that DVD as I love her videos on Exercise TV & also won her yoga video from you. I am having a baby and due January 1st so once I get the okay from the doctor, I am planning on the challenge. I have also done Turbo Fire and love it. I actually still it now but just modified. Good luck!
Shanna, Like Banana says
Girl I actually wish I could do this with you. But probably not the best idea with Sawyer on board ;)
I’m feeling so *fat* lately. I know it’s baby, but still….
Good luck with it!
Courtney says
Baby Sawyer will be worth all of those yucky feelings in the end!! :)
Jennifer says
I’d love to join the challenge with you. I was just looking for some sort of workout I could do regularly to help me get some baby weight off. I have the DVD’s on my Exercise on Demand, so I think I’m in!
Leila says
I have access to the workouts on Exercise TV so I’d love to do some of the workouts with you. I won’t be following along with the actual program but I am always looking for different ways to switch up my routine (and since I pay for a gym membership I can’t justify not using my membership for a whole month, ya know?!). The only workout from this program I’ve tried is the yoga one (thanks to your awesome recommendation) and I really loved it. I look forward to trying out some of the others!
Emmarie @ Bananas And Beer says
I think I’d like that plan. I could work out at home, and it’s only 28 days. Which will fly by. I tried P90X for a while, but threw in the towel after about 4 weeks, so, this would be perfect for me.
Jennifer @ Somewhere In Between says
I tried out one of the segments on demand earlier this summer and loved it! Their website has some great printouts to go along with the whole program. I’m thinking this is the challenge to go with to get in shape for my upcoming wedding (since I’ve totally fallen off the gym wagon!). It will be interesting to have a whole group participating in the challenge – I’d definitely participate!
Erica @ For the Sake of Cake says
This seems like an interesting plan & I look forward to reading the updates!
I try to alternate between cardio & strength training so that I don’t get bored. And when I do find myself getting bored with certain things (like BodyPump) I just take some time off from them!
Ashley says
I would love to do this workout program! I get bored really easily doing the same workout over and over again and think that this would definitely mix it up for me. Do you have the DVD set that is $55? There is another DVD on Amazon that is $18, but it isn’t “xtreme”.
Courtney says
I have the DVD that is $55, but I only have the xtreme workouts (not the meal plan, tape measure, etc.) I believe the one that is $55 also includes all of the original 10lb. slimdown workouts, which are used as recovery workouts in the xtreme challenge (which is what is on amazon).
The only place I’ve seen the xtreme to buy is on the Exercise TV website.
Colleen @ Jimmy Choos on the Treadmill says
Good luck, I know you can do it!!
I just realized that I am signed up for a bike race in a few weeks and I have yet to pedal an inch…this is going to be interesting!
Ashley says
I was thinking about starting this too! I currently use On Demand for all of my workouts and I have done most of these workouts individually (not following a play). I think it would help me really be accountable and lose the pesky pounds that I have. I did the lower body on Monday, and I still can barely walk.
Courtney says
I just did that one yesterday and I cannot BELIEVE how sore I am! WOW
Megan says
I like doing the 10lb slimdown on Exercise TV as well…especially when I’m feeling not motivated enough to drive to the gym in the morning. I haven’t done it consistently but I really do like the videos.
I just ordered Insanity the other month and haven’t fully started the plan, but have done a couple of the DVD’s and they are awesome. It’s not boring whatsoever and I definitely sweat as much or more if I was at the gym doing cardio. I’m looking forward to starting them consistently and seeing what happens!
Heidi says
That sounds really interesting! I don’t mind workout challenge dvd’s and have been wanting to try one for a while, this sounds like one that might actually keep me motivated ;) :) I’ll have to give it a try! Can’t wait to read your review of it!
Taylor @ Crumbs Don't Count says
I did P90x for awhile, but I didn’t like being forced to do a certain workout every day, and doing the same ones over and over got boring…now I just pick and choose to do a workout here and there whenever I want to focus on a particular muscle group (I use the leg workout the most often, and the kickboxing workout is a fun second choice!)
Good luck!!
Lindsay@ In Sweetness and In Health says
I’m so excited to hear more about your experience with this! It sounds great!! I would do something like that if I had workout equipment at home…sadly I don’t- perhaps when I finally get a place of my own and have a job haha. I actually just wrote about changing up how I strength train because I’ve been getting bored and not feeling challenged- I plan to start today :D. And can I just say that you are absolutely gorgeous Courtney!
Courtney says
You are too nice. Thank you, Lindsay :)
Brigitt says
How do you motivate yourself to get up and exercise in the mornings. I convince myself I’m going to wake up early the night before and I set my alarm, but 99% of the time I roll over, shut off the alarm, and go back to bed until I have to wake up for work!
Courtney says
For me, knowing that it’s done for the rest of the day is enough to motivate me to get up. Here’s some of my other tips! https://www.sweettoothsweetlife.com/2011/03/01/some-favorite-fitness-tips/
Alyssa @ Don't Look Down says
I have/have used a lot of workout programs (Insanity, p90x, Windsor pilates, the Firm, BeachBody Slim in 6). Most of them are either my mom’s, my roommates at one point, or I got for free. I’ve never really done a full program of any of them, but I have used them a few times. I have a hard time sticking out an entire program because the moves get so repetitive and I like mixing it up. Mostly I will just do one of the videos when I can’t get to the gym or need to mix up my workout routine.
jordan @ thedancingdonut says
i’m tempted to try that video! about a week ago i actually pushed myself to head to a challenging mountain in Burbank to hike (which i barely ever do) and i’ve been three times so far…it is rough! but i’m proud of myself for trying something new and waking up with sore muscles makes me feel like i accomplished something. i tried a little of insanity a few weeks ago, and that wasn’t too bad either. i just prefer being outdoors. good luck with your new program :)
Hilliary@HappilyEverHealthy says
Good luck with the challenge! You can do it, and it will be so worth it in the end! The last time I really pushed myself in a workout was before a wedding I was in, in early September! I like a good challenge, those workouts always leave me feeling accomplished!
Emily says
Would love for you to one day document everything you eat, including the snacks. Also, would love to see what you drink throughout the day. We know you always have your morning coffee but I wonder what else you drink throughout the day. Are you drinking water or something else?
Courtney says
Most of the time, if I’m not drinking coffee, it’s just water. I’ll have the occasional diet soda (I know, I know) but it’s usually only in the evenings.
Sara @ RunnerWife says
Wow! That sounds extreme! Good luck with it!! It looks awsome, but unfortunatly my training schedule would not allow me to do something like this at this time – hopefully soon though!
Molly says
i’m really bad at work out challenges. I feel like if I’m “told to workout” i just want to rebel! :)
Amanda says
I really support you in this, and hopefully you will have a good review because I am looking for the same reasons to do something like this! Let us know :) xoxo
Yolie @ Practising Wellness says
Hey lovely! I think this is really exciting! It’s always fun to shake things up, and there’s nothing wrong with a change in perspective and take on exercise every now and then – I’m excited for you! :-D And excited for me becuase I get to read all about it, lol!
And dude, I know exactly what you mean about snacking going on the up during the day – I am working on freelance writing projects from home, whilst simultaneously job hunting, and I snack ALL the live long day, I swear. I have now gotten into the habit of having two lunches. I kid you not ;-) One at like 11.30 and the other at like 1.30! I don’t know how it happened. It just started and now it’s the new normal! ;-)
Glad to hear it’s not just me who falls into that trap working from home, lol! :-P
Have a wonderful day! <3 xyx
Kait says
After reading your blog last week, I tried one of the workouts. I’d definitely be interested in trying the program with you. I’ve done Insanity and TurboFire before but after the third time around, I was getting a little bored. I may have to wait a little while to start the workout though…my honeymoon is coming up in 10 days. I doubt much exercising will get done while I’m gone. ;-) Good luck!
Katie @ Plates and Paste says
The fitness studio I go to does a lot of challenges, which are always fun and super motivating. They also have prizes you can win! I’ve done a few of them before, but my schedule gets so tight that I miss workouts and then loose motivation :(
I want to look into getting dvds like this though. I think it’d be helpful since once I get home from a long day I can’t bear the thought of driving to workout. Would rather workout in the comfort of my own home :)
Can’t wait to see how your challenge goes!
Lindsay @ biking before bed says
That sounds like an awesome DVD. I have trouble motivating myself to do exercise in my house. I feel more motivated at the gym when I am surrounded by other people pushing themselves. Maybe I just haven’t found the right at home workouts.
I love the picture of you and Jif… I can tell its true love.
chelsey @ clean eating chelsey says
I have never taken part in a workout challenge (unless you count half marathon training!), but that one sounds great! I think that we all go through spurts wehre we are more laid back about working out and then realize we need an esxtra push sometimes. Good luck!
Mallory @ It's Only Life says
Ooh great idea to start a new workout challenge! You definitely don’t look like you need to lose ANY weight, you’re gorgeous as always, but of course if you feel it would make you feel better then totally go for it! I totally get what you mean about “happy weight”. I, too, went snack-crazy when I lived back at home before i got a full-time job…now that I’m working it’s (slightly) easier to stop munching all day and I’m almost back to where I want to be. Doesn’t help that my co-workers just bought big bags of twix and kit kat bars, though :)
Tina @ Faith Fitness Fun says
Sounds like a great and very realistic challenge! I know you will do great. :) Love you!
Shayla @ The Good Life says
I feel the same about Chris (cute but makes you workout hard) and wrote that in my post too, love that about her! :)
I would love to follow along and join this challenge! I still enjoy going to the gym though so I may not follow it exactly, but I would love to do some of the classes here and there!
I always get super motivated in a workout class when I’m around other students, and I always park myself right in the front row which really helps with the motivation and makes me workout harder :)
Samantha says
Darnit, too bad I’m so involved in running/racing – I’d love to do this with you. Unfortunately, I can’t fit the runs I need in with another hour of working out!
Good luck, it sounds like a great challenge to embark upon!
debbie (accidently delish) says
i would totally have done this with you if I had the dvd or on demand. but alas i have neither! i did jillian michaels 30 day shred and was surprised i stuck with the whole thing (however that was kind of the beginning of when my ED started so a warning to you, that those videos can be addicting, but you seem to be pretty level headed about it and your goal for it. main thing is to stay nourished, which i’m sure you already know!)
good luck with it, i’m anxious to see your progress!
Ari @ Ari's Menu says
I thought about trying Insanity–and even downloaded all the videos, but it’s so hard for me to get in the right mindset inside my house! I’m interested to hear how you like this one though, because I wouldn’t mind trying one at some point, but even though I like to schedule my gym classes, I like the freedom of making up the schedule myself. Also, I think you look fantastic and don’t need to lose a pound, but I totally understand how it’s always different to be inside your own skin :)
Courtney says
Thank you, Ari :)
Rosa - Fitness Food Fulfilled says
I’ve never done the P90X, but have done the P90 which was much more sedate. I’d like to do the Insanity workout after I’m done training for my marathon. I love a great challenge!
Jessica says
Why do jeans always seem tighter in the fall? HAHA I swear after a whole summer of dresses and shorts (shorts seem more forgiving don’t they?) My jeans must have shrunk sitting in my closet for three months! Good luck with the challenge! I did P90x for a while but it was just too much to commit to, plus I don’t really enjoy strength training all that much. I prefer yoga or running.
Erica says
oh goodness. i haven’t worked out since the week of my wedding, (about 2 weeks ago) and i haven’t been really watching what i’ve been eating either. i need to get back on track!!!
Courtney says
That’s ok! You’re a newlywed! :-D
Abby @ Abz 'n' Oats says
I totally hear ya on the jeans being a bit too tight and snacking too much in the afternoon and evenings. I have started blogging everything I eat because I feel like it helps keep me a bit more accountable. We all have to do what works for us! :) Good luck with your challenge! It is always nice to have a plan in mind!
Amanda says
I just ordered this program!! Can’t wait to start it!
I have tried Insanity, but did not stick with it for the whole program. I do the DVDs randomly, but really need to re-commit to them.
I am planning on going all-out with this program and sticking with it and hopefully getting results! I’m glad I read your blog, so I can see how you are doing with the workout while I’m doing it as well :)
Courtney says
Awesome!!! We’ll be xtreme buddies! ;)
Lizzie says
that froyo looks amazing!!!!
Lauren says
The last challenging workout was this morning’s 7 mile run! I thought it would be fun to do a hard hill in the last mile…it wasn’t haha. I just started a new challenge 2 weeks ago – New rules of lifting for women. It’s going well so far, and it’s nice to follow the plan since I’ve never done any structured lifting before.
Shana says
I just did the 10 lb. extreme yoga this morning! I didn’t think it was too extreme but my muscles definitely enjoyed it after yesterday’s intervals on the treadmill. I might just have to try some of the other workouts as well!
Courtney says
I just did it this morning…I agree, not *too* extreme, but I liked some of the power poses. I also paired mine with some HIIT :)
Yaara says
Hey Courtney!
I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your blog! The new “10 pound challenge” looks good. Also–if you’re looking to shake up your workouts–I know you like workout DVDs–and I recently got really into them. I’ve gotten really hooked on kickboxing and ordered Turbofire which is really good. Another really fantastic cardio workout that involves plyometric drills and other fun stuff is “The Firm’s” Calorie explosion. It’s intense and it’ll get you sweatin!!
Courtney says
Thanks for the tips, Yaara!
Regan says
I did P90X a few years ago with my husband. Then we did Insanity…P90X kicked our butt and got us much better results…good luck, can’t wait to hear what you think of your new challenge!!
Stacey says
Good luck! I’m gonna do thus challenge also! Let’s rock these 28 days! Just hope can find a buddy to come over and join me!!! I agree, I need to slim down about 5 pounds just to feel normal! I know I gotTa monitor the snacking and the cOol whip addiction! But it’ll be one mOnth on sept 26 since I had ice cream, so much happier w out my ice cream addiction ;-)
Courtney says
Awesome!! I’m so glad you’re in! :)
Courtney says
Really?!? A whole month without ice cream?? Was it hard? I can’t even fathom that lol…
Stacey says
I just made up my mind that I had to cut it out, and honestly now I don’t even want it, it may taste good eating it but the way I feel afterwards isn’t worth it….3 more days to my one month without!!!
Ani says
I’m a couple days late reading this but it’s so funny because I actually just started the regular 10lb slimdown plan today!
Olivia says
I started Jamie Eason’s 12 week challenge a couple of weeks ago and I’m loving it. (The workout program and meal plan are free online at bodybuilding.com) It keeps challenging me to push myself farther than I would have an I am definitely seeing an increase in muscle definition…score!
Amanda says
Good for you Courts! A few kilos can definitely make all the difference. I was in denial that I had put on about 10kgs over the last two years, and then I finally made the decision to do something about it in May. I’m doing it slow, 1/2 kilo/week. I’m already feeling SO much better, and my jeans fit again, and I only have 4kgs to go! Best of luck m’dear! x
Christin Hegreness says
Hi! This is so random, but do you still have this DVD? I had it and loved it, but I lost mine and can’t find it anywhere online!! Just wondering if I could buy a copy from you. I even asked Chris Freytag herself and she doesn’t have a copy! Thanks!