HIIT workout for the week

This week is HIIT week... actually AMRAP week (As Many Rounds As Posssible). This also means trying out a different workout set to test myself for the week. Unfortunately I can only think of so many different exercises to piece together until I find myself bored with it. Thankfully I am subscribed to Zuzka Light on YouTube and her workouts kick your ass every freakin time! If you are interested in seeing this week's workout here is her breakdown of the workout. 

So this is how I normally record my cardio workouts. Writing it out so I know what I'm getting myself into.

The video says that you should get a hold of a 30lb dumbbell. However, I don't have that so that means I can't do the workout, right? WRONG. This is my go to option for weight: 20lb home made sandbag. 

Looks like just a plain duffel bag...

Instead I have 2x 10lb sandbags in here. The nice thing about this bag is the size and number of handles it has so that I can drag the bag where I need it during the exercise.

 Handy-dandy timer that my best friend bought for me 2 Christmas' ago :) Set at 12 min.

So, I don't know if I'm quite ready to film a cardio workout yet. I know some of you expressed to see me do it. To be honest I do this in my room. Not exactly the ideal place to film my workout. I'm thinking about doing this in the weight room with a tri-pod at some point this week. That's a little more ideal and you could probably see the moves better. Anywho, down below is the result of today's workout. Let's see how many rounds I can do tomorrow! Maybe Thursday I will film as I get used to this workout... We shall see. 

Here's a motivational picture for the week :) 

Keep going and don't give up! 

- Marie

Paleo Challenge: Complete! And a huge Thank YOU!

As of Monday Jonathan and I have completed the 30 days of Paleo. And you know what? We actually love it so much that we will continue to do it, however, we will be throwing in a cheat meal (not day) on a weekend day. So we've decided this weekend we're going to eat dim sum (YESSSSSS!!! I'm craving dumplings too :D :D ). At day 30 these are my results compared to day 1.

 

I know the poses aren't the same but the lighting from the window was better in these angles heh heh heh. Here are the results and I will resume to uploading monthly progress pictures as I did in the past. As I continue this lifestyle I am seeing more and more gains. My strength is stronger and my workouts are tough enough. Here are some other pics that I'd like to share with you, the calves which I have already posted on Facebook and my quads which I saved for this :) 

 

Anyway, enough about muscles ;) My last post elicited many responses from an unexpected audience: those of you whom I haven't spoken to or seen in such a long time. I am in awe at the outreach you all expressed, and I am extremely touched by your words. To have such support is.... amazing. That's an understatement because at this point words cannot fully express my gratitude for all of your words and support!!

And speaking of support, you have goals right? Whether it's to pass a test, or move out of your parents house, or just have a healthier lifestyle, you have goals. In order to be a couple steps closer to your goals must surround yourself with those who will push you, to motivate you, to support you, and, most of all, respect you. Tackling these goals are hard to do on your own. And you know what? There is nothing wrong with asking for or seeking help. And I don't mean surrounding yourself with those who will shove a shot glass or drink in your hand and tell you to down it so you can get piss drunk then do shit that you probably will forget/regret. These are the people that will tell you,  "You sure you wanna buy that purse? That's less money toward 'moving-out-fund.' " Or "No, you can't eat that because you promised yourself you wouldn't," or "Let's take a hike on a new trail, it would be nice to see different things." It's kind of like guilt tripping but beneficial for you than them. These are the people who are also willing to make a change with you and help you through it. I am incredibly fortunate to have Jonathan and the handful of you readers inspiring me to keep going and accepting change as well as challenges.

With that I vow to you, and myself, that I will stay consistent, I will continue to inspire, I will continue to be raw, I will continue to push myself, and I will continue to be strong.

Thank you, and don't give up!

Marie