Day 68 and 69 Tapout XT

Buns and Guns always a fun one with a little karate class thrown in there for good measure today. Still feeling good. The changes in my body have slowed down, but I think that is partially due to the fact that my diet was not the greatest. My karate is better and in the end to me that is all that matters. Well and the fact that my clothes fit better too, oh and that I feel 10 times better than I did before I started the program. Ok there are a few things that matter to me. Still plugging along on the Tapout train heading towards that 90 day goal!

Breakfast: Cereal day 68 and 69
Lunch: Cabo stew day 68;  glutton free pasta with meat, spinach and marinara day 69
Dinner: glutton free pasta with meat, spinach and marinara sauce day 68; grilled chicken caesar salad day 69
Snack: oranges, frozen yogurt, peanuts

image courtesy of http://www.squidoo.com/fitness-motivational-quotes

Day 65, 66, and 67 Tapout XT

Another weekend full of yard work and karate. Glad I started the Tapout XT program before I decided to re-landscape my entire back yard. All those up downs and push-ups paid off when I was hauling the lumber, dirt, and plants that made my backyard what it is now. I still can't believe how much tapout has improved my quickness in karate. It's amazing how much faster my punches have gotten in 60 some what days. Today I rounded out my yard work with a little Muay Thai. This workout is my favorite.  It's quick, too the point, and I feel it throughout my entire body. I'm not going to lie working out everyday is a challenge, but if I can just get myself to push play it's all down hill from there!

Breakfast: Cereal - day 65-67
Lunch - thai chicken wrap, sweet potato fries- day 65; Taco, beans and rice - day 66; 3 pieces of pizza day 67
Dinner: club sandwich - day 65; Sushi day 66; Beef stew with brown rice -day 67
Snack: peanuts, granola bar, and chex mix

Diets been tough the past few days. Birthday weekend and friends in town. Didn't eat as light or as healthy as I would have liked too, but still didn't do too bad. Pizza wasn't a smart choice, but the next meal was healthier. Kept up with working out, but the workouts are tough with the un-healthy food in my system. Just drives the point home that you have to put good food in your body to get the results you want!

Day 61, 62, 63, and 64

Weigh in time! I am down to 143 which is really good for me. I feel better, look better, and am stronger and faster than I have ever been. I have been out of karate for about 8 weeks with an injury and went back for the first time on October 1st.  My sensei was impressed by how good of shape I was in after being away from the dojo for 8 wks. I kept up with everyone in class and I actually think I am better now than I was 8 wks ago. I have been using the weighted gloves during Cardio, Muay Thai, and Sprawl and Brawl and I am with Mike on this one, you should totally try them. It brings a different intensity to the workout. I wouldn't suggest them for your first month, but try them out in month two after you have been doing the workouts for awhile and I think they will really help you see results.

Now it's time to talk about my diet. I still have not had any alcohol or fast food in 64 days , but I am not going to lie I have fallen off the wagon here and there this week eating non-whole wheat tortillas, non brown rice, and a serving of breaded chicken. I have been very strict with my diet and the better I eat the better I feel and the better results I see. Eating this type of food again made me sluggish and not prepared for my workouts.  If you only take away one thing from this blog I hope it is that eating healthy is just as important as working out. The two go hand in hand.  To quit does not exist! Stick with it and see those results you want to see!

Day 57, 58,59, & 60 TapouT XT

Still on the Tapout XT but with the 2 days of week of yoga I have had to modify the workouts some incorporating some martial arts classes and outside work. May not be Tapout but it is still moving and with fitness keeping moving is 90% of the battle! Tomorrow is weigh- in. Cant's wait to see what I am down.

Day 56 TapouT XT

Muay Thai -  Love this one and looked forward to working out with it all day. It's great for taking out that aggression that builds up at the office, in morning traffic, and on the long commute home. Kick and punch your way to lower blood pressure! 4 days till weigh in and I have to say I am excited. I think I might have dropped a pound!

Breakfast: honey bunches of oats
Snack: yogurt clusters
Lunch: beef, brown rice, and beans
Dinner: clear soup and sushi

Day 51, 52, 53 , 54, 55 Tapout XT

It's been quite the Tapout week. I feel stronger, lighter, and fitter then  in past weeks. I have been working out like a mad woman doing TapouT XT and  building a deck while re-landscaping my backyard. I even had a chance to  work on my tan while working outside. Always a plus! The workouts are  getting easier and my body is starting to really change. Can't wait till  day 60 for weigh-in. I think the scale is going to move! I am most  impressed so far with my increase in upper body strength. All the push ups  and band training is really starting to pay off. I feel like I could lift  some serious iron! Granted I'm not but the extra strength came in handy  this weekend while building and working outside.  Diet wise I haven't been  as strict as in the past but still no fast food or alcohol but a whole lot  more grain and carbs than in previous weeks. It doesn't seem to be hurting  me though as long as I keep up with the workouts.

Day 50 TapouT XT

Rest Day -  I worked outside on the yard. Lost of lifting. Feel the burn! Ready for tomorrow's workout!

Breakfast: honey bunches of oats
Snack: oat clusters
Lunch: chicken caesar salad
Dinner: beef and veggies

Day 49 TapouT XT

Cardio XT + Ultimate Abs - Today was the first time I used the weighted gloves for the cardio workout and boy did it make a difference. I felt the difference everywhere. Mike's right you need to get the weighted gloves. The punches are harder, the running takes more concentration, and the jumping jacks are killer. Today was a long workout with 48 mins of cardio and then another 15 of ab work, but it didn't feel as long as it sometimes does since I was concentrating on just keeping up. Those gloves really pushed me today. Rest day tomorrow and I need it!

Breakfast: honey bunches of oats
Snack: oat and yogurt clusters
Lunch: salmon and asparagus
Dinner: chicken and brown rice

Day 48 TapouT XT

Legs and Back - First day back after 3 days of digging more holes and pulling up sod and I have to say Tapout XT was a welcome vacation from gardening. After three days of bending over, legs and back was rough. Felt it everywhere I was suppose to and some places I don't think I was suppose to feel it. Still on the Tapout XT band wagon and still loving it! Just keep it up and you will see results!

Breakfast: honey bunches of oats
Snack: 90 cal pack of oat clusters
Lunch: beef soup and an orange
Dinner: grilled salmon, carrots and broccoli
Snack: vanilla wafers

Day 45, 46, & 47 TapouT XT

I'm not going to lie instead of doing Tapout these past few days I ripped up my yard. I missed the last two workouts and replaced them with ripping up sod, moving wood, digging holes, and working in the sun. I didn't think I was going to replace them, but I wasn't physically capable of working out and doing the manual labor that the back yard entailed. Tomorrow is legs and back and I am ready! 

Breakfast: honey bunches of oat (all 3 days)
Lunch: soup(day 45), club sandwich on wheat(day 46), pizza (day 47)
Dinner: Sushi (day 45), chicken and brown rice (day 46), pizza (day 47)

Day 44 Tapout XT

Plyo - Kicked my butt. Totally worth it. Always feel a little sore after this one. Getting easier everyday though. To quit does not exist!

Breakfast: honey bunches of oats
Lunch: baked chicken, corn, green beans
Dinner: soup beef and barely

Day 43 Rest Day

Rest Day: I did just I was suppose to rested. Nothing else to report today.

Breakfast: honey bunches of oats
Lunch: Turkey Burger corn and green beans
Dinner: baked chicken, corn, and green beans

Day 42 TapouT XT

Sprawl and Brawl - I like this one more and more every time I get to workout with it. I can really see my progress with this DVD. I can actually keep up with it now which feels pretty good. Just proof that if you stick with it you will see results.

Breakfast: harvest nut cookie
Lunch: beef and green beans
Snack: harvest nut cookie
Dinner: turkey burger no bun, corn, and green beans

Day 41 TapouT XT

Buns and Guns + Ultimate Abs - Love this workout. It's short and straight to the point. 30 minutes of buns and guns and then another 14 minutes of abs.  I really like the variations of moves with the bands. I just feel like I got a good strength training workout in and really got my sweat on. Trying to inch my way closer to that 142 pound mark. With 39 days left I am pretty confident that I will get there.  I changed my diet up and have made it less strict. Beefed up my grain and fiber intake in hopes that it will jolt my system. I wouldn't say I am on a diet, cause you should never go on a diet cause they almost never workout, but instead I would say I am on a lifestyle change. Staying away from the fatty foods and sodas.

Breakfast - harvest grain cookie
Lunch: meat loaf and wheat mac and cheese
Dinner: beef and string beans
Snack: peanuts

Day 40 TapouT XT

Yoga XT - Today was sand the chair and weigh-in day. Maybe one day I actually be able to do this DVD, but until then I will have to make up my own routines. I did weigh in though and after 20 days I lost 1 pound. I thought for sure I would have lost more since I stuck to the diet and exercised everyday, but I already have lost the 10 pounds I wanted to loose so I am grateful that I lost that. You can see some change in my picture from day 20 to day 40 but not a whole lot. A good amount of change from day 1 to day 40 so that is good.

Weight: 146.1
BMI : 23

Breakfast: granola bar
Lunch: beef, brown rice, and green beans
Dinner: meat loaf, wheat mac and cheese, corn
Snack: yogurt

Day 39 TapouT XT

Cross Core Combat - I really use to dislike this one, but as I get stronger I like it more and more. It still isn't one of my favorites but at least I can make it through the workout now without feeling like I am going to die.

Breakfast: granola bar
Lunch: steak, spinach, and red potatoes
Dinner: 3 chicken legs and corn
Snack: yogurt

Day 38 TapouT XT

Ripped Conditioning + Ultimate Abs - Feel the burn just like the name of the blog! Less cardio and more curls. my shoulders are tight and my abs are burning! Really crushed it today. Gave 100% and most importantly got the workout in right after work which is a change of pace from the last week when I wasn't able to fit it in until right before bed. Two days till weigh in and I am ready to see that scale move. Hopefully.

Breakfast: granola bar 1 hard boiled egg
Lunch: chicken caesar salad
Dinner: 8 sushi rolls, clear soup, squid salad

TapouT XT Review (So Far)

So far here is the skinny on TapouT XT: I have been doing the program for 38 days now and have seen some really great results with it. I have lost 10 pounds and 2 inches off my waist, more quickly than I imagined. What people need to realize about this program is that you don’t see results like I am seeing without extreme dedication to both the diet and exercise program. Not missing a day and never cheating with your diet is how you see results. That being said I would give this program two thumbs up. The workouts are fun, diverse, challenging, and best of all usually under an hour. It is a cardio based program that uses your own body weight to tone and sculpt your body. One thing to keep in mind if you are thinking about purchasing TapouT XT is your current state of fitness. I am not a doctor, but am someone that has been working out regularly their entire life and I sometimes have a hard time keeping up with the pace of these workouts. If you have taken a significant amount of time off from working out you may want to start out with a less intense program and work your way up to this one. Every workout is full of planks, squats, lounges, kicks, punches, running, and jumping jacks. It is at least 40 minutes everyday of non-stop high impact exercise. I call it high impact because there is lots of jumping in place involved in every workout along with lots of jump push-ups. If you have bad knees or wrists I wouldn’t recommend this workout without serious modifications.  Mike Karpenko is the trainer that developed and leads the workout program. He does a good job of keeping you motivated throughout the workouts without being annoying. The meal plan  is pretty good. It contains 20 days worth of recipes and some background on why you should eat some foods as compared to other foods. The bands that come with the program are good for the first 30 days but if you really want to see results you will have to invest in heavier bands later on. I only have one complaint so far with TapouT XT and that is that there is not a store where you can order any extra equipment. I think they are missing out of profit by not offering bands, gloves, and mats for purchase after you receive your TapouT XT set.  For the price of three payments of 39.99 I think it is a good deal. Unlike other programs where you need dumbbells and pull up bars everything you need comes in the box delivered to your door. If you are in pretty good shape, looking for a challenge, and love MMA this is the workout for you!

Day 37 TapouT XT

Plyo XT - To sum it up in one word, KILLER! That's what this workout was. Coming off a rest day I was ready to hit the workout hard, but I always forget how intense this one is. I start out super strong and slowly digress to barely moving as the sweat begins to puddle at my feet. Even after 37 days of working out and eating right I still find this one challenging. I often find myself muttering obscenities at the t.v. towards the end of this one. I finished strong, but this one always reminds I have a lot of improvement that can be made.

Breakfast: granola bar and 1 hard boiled egg
Lunch: turkey burger no bun, peas and carrots
Snack: peanuts
Dinner: baked bbq chicken, corn, snap peas

Day 36 TapouT XT

Rest Day: Just as the calendar said I rested on the 7th day. My mission for the day was to find some weighted gloves. Mission failed. I found some on amazon that I think I will order, but the ones they had at the store all were wrist weight which won't work with all the punching that comes along with the Tapout workouts. I do wish that there was a tapout store that you could order extra bands and weighted gloves from but I haven't seen any of that type of equipment on the website.

Breakfast: Cheerios and 1 hard boiled egg
Lunch: vegetable soup, grapes, orange
Dinner: turkey burger, peas and carrots
Snack: yogurt

Day 35 TapouT XT

Cardio XT + Ultimate Abs - Another late start to my workout today. Didn't  get to it today till 9:30pm and today was at least a full hour on the mat. I put the time in though and pushed through. I figured it was better to do the workout late than to not do it at all. I was dripping by the end of it and was totally ready to crash. It had been a long day. I am really starting to see my abs. I am starting to think that by day 90 I just might have a six pack like TapouT XT promised! Here is something that I have learned in the past 35 day: if you can just get yourself to push play you will do the workout. Even if you don't finish all of it, it's still better than not doing any of it at all.


Breakfast: cheerios and a hard boiled egg
Snack: grapes
Lunch: baked pork, corn, and an orange
Dinner: pulled pork, corn, and coleslaw

Day 34 TapouTXT

Legs and Back - Didn't get to my workout till 9pm last night, but I got it in. Legs and back is a short one, it is just over 42 minutes,  so doing the workout at 9pm wasn't a huge deal.  I gave  only about 80% last night. I was drained from hurricane clean-up, but I didn't want to miss a workout so I grabbed both my bands and off to TapouT I went. When I was finished I was glad I had done it. Actually you never hear anyone say that they aren't glad that they have done a workout . You always feel more accomplished afterwards. One thing I have learned over these past 30 some what days is that if you stick with this program you will see results, but you only see what you put in.  You have to give 100% and eat right to get the results that you want.  Stick with it and don't give up. Getting in shape isn't an easy journey, but it is one with great rewards.

Side Note: My TapouT XT leg band is starting to look a bit worn, I.E. it is ripping. The arm bands are still hanging in there though. I think that after day 40 it will be time for a higher resistance leg and arm band.

Breakfast: granola bar
Lunch: Hamburger no bun and a chicken breast
Snack: Yogurt
Dinner: Beef stew
Snack: Peanuts

Day 33 Tapout XT

Yoga XT- As usual I skipped this one, see previous post as to why, and did another set of workouts. I am addicted to purchasing workout DVD and recently bought Shaun T's Rockin Body. I decided yesterday to try out one of his workouts. I did the party mix, which was 25 minutes of basically jumping and running around. Not at all like a TapoutXT workout. Much lower impact and overall I found it kind of boring. It got me sweating, but I didn't really enjoy it. Although I do think this would be an excellent workout for someone just starting to get back in shape, it's not so great for someone who has been doing TapoutXT for 30 plus days. I also did the 10 minute ab workout. That was a little more challenging. Didn't sweat as much as Tapout, but at least I got a workout in.  Can't wait to get back to Tapout tomorrow!

Breakfast: 2 quaker oat cluster packs
Lunch - baked chicken and peas
Dinner: pork and corn

Day 32 Tapout XT

Muay Thai - Getting back into my regular workout schedule after the storm. Glad that this one was today. It is one of my favorites. No bands just straight up martial arts. 48 minutes of fist pounding and kicking. Doesn't get better than this one.  I still am seeing results and on day 40 I will post a pick since day 30 came and went and well I was without power. Still loving the workouts and am not bored yet! To quit does not exist!

Breakfast: granola bar
Lunch: Chicken caesar salad
Snack: peanuts
Dinner: pork, potatoes, and peas
Snack: granola bar

Day 28,29,30,31, Tapout XT

Ripped Conditioning - It's been awhile, but here in southern Louisiana we were dealing with a really big slow moving guy called Isaac. Isaac moved out, but after four days I am still without power just waiting for my house to come back on the grid. Even without power and a hurricane blowing my house around I still managed to get my workout in everyday but one. Not bad for  living in a disaster zone. A new video was thrown into the mix  this week with ripped conditioning. Another good one that combined band work with a small bit of cardio to give you a really good workout. It was a short one clocking in at under 50 minutes, but ultimate abs was thrown in there to make it just over an hour. I know my 30 day pics are due, but we will have to wait till power is restored for that one. Still plugging along hope everyone out there is keeping up with their workouts and enjoying them.

Day 27 TapoutXT

Cardio XT and Ab Ripper - Last workout before the hurricane Isaac is scheduled to hit here in NOLA. Gave a 100% on this one cause I don't know how long I will have electricity so I figured I needed to give something a little extra. Was totally drenched by the time the workout was over with. After the past two days I am really looking forward to a rest day tomorrow. I am not going to lie I plan on charging a computer and saving it just incase I loose power and it's all I have to workout on. What can I say I am dedicated. If you don't hear from me for a couple of days it's cause my powers out. Fingers crossed the outage doesn't last long!

Breakfast - 1 hard boiled egg
Lunch zucchini and shredded chicken pie
Dinner: turkey burger, veggie stir fry
Snack: peanuts, granola bar, raspberries

Day 26 TapoutXT

Sprawl and Brawl -  Oh what a Tapout XT day. As hurricane Isaac approaches my workout partner and I had to baton down that hatches for the approaching storm and fit in a workout. Not an easy task, but it was done! Talk about dedication. On top of some sprawl and brawl there was 2 hours of some pretty intense manual labor. Needless to say I think I got a pretty good workout yesterday times 2! To quit does not exist, even when a hurricane is approaching!

Breakfast: 1 hard boiled egg, raspberries
Lunch: beef and broccoli
Dinner: chicken zucchini crustless pie

Day 25 TapouTXT

Yoga XT -  Maybe one day when my foot is healed I will be able to tackle yoga xt but until that day comes I will strive to find new and innovative ways to exercise. Today my workout partner and I decided to try hip hop abs cardio blast. It was a 35 minute much lower intensity cardio burn. It was fun and a change of pace which was nice, but nothing beats Tapout XT. Basically you just danced around in place and contracted your abs. Yeah I sweat, but was never out of breath or really felt like I was pushing myself. I think anyone who isn't in very good shape and wants to start Tapout should look into doing something like Hip Hop Abs. It will help you build up your endurance and get you moving and then when you are looking for more of a challenge you can start an intensive program like Tapout XT. It's also a shorter workout which could be a plus for someone just getting back into working out.  Tomorrow its sprawl and brawl!

Breakfast: 1 hard boiled egg, raspberries
Lunch: chicken caesar salad
Snack: peanuts
Dinner: ribs and sweet potato
Snack: raspberries

Day 24 TapouTXT

Muay Thai - Jab, cross, upper cut repeat! Awesome workout. My favorite one by far! Since hurting my foot 2 months ago I haven't been able to practice my karate at my dojo so this was a welcome surprise when popping this DVD in. It was like being at karate class! I felt like I sweat off 5lbs in this workout. I love the videos that really make you feel like you worked out. Not that all of them don't but the more cardio focused DVDs really get me excited about the program and what I am doing. I gave this one my all for the 45 minutes of the workout and I feel like I got out of it what I put in it which was 100%.  This one also grabs my vote for favorite because it didn't have all mat work that the other dvds have. Much easier on my wrists and shoulders than the previous workouts. After 24 days I am still loving it more than any of the other workout programs that I have done in the past.

Breakfast: 2 hard boiled eggs
Lunch: turkey burger, no bun, corn, 2 oranges
Dinner: turkey burger, corn
Snack: yogurt with peanuts

Day 23 TapoutXT

Buns and Guns + Ab Ripper - Totally not what I expected. I mean there were no push-ups! A Tapout workout with no push-ups is unheard of, isn't it? This workout is all band work. Total strength training. If your looking for cardio this is not the video for you. It's a quick one too clocking in at 35 minutes or so, but you don't think Mike is going to let you off that easy do you? Oh no there is another 15 minutes of ab ripper to tackle after you finish with your buns and guns. I almost felt like I was taking a break today with this one. Every other workout so far has been such high impact I was a little surprised by how low key this one was. I'm not complaining, believe me my shoulders and forearms welcomed the rest, but I was a little surprised. I did feel a little special with a couple of the moves. There was one that was suppose to work your triceps, but I just felt like I was hog tied! It was quite comical trying to wrap the band around my foot and then over my head and around my back while laying on my stomach. Maybe next time I will video tape it!

Breakfast: 2 hard boiled eggs
Lunch: turkey over romaine lettuce and fat free cheese with italian dressing
Snack: 2 oranges and grapes
Dinner: turkey burger no bun, corn
Snack: yogurt

Day 22 TapoutXT

Competition Core - Totally brought it on this one today. Broke a nice sweat and really felt it in my core. Good workout for the whole body that got me sweating. Got so much more out of this workout as compared to Cross Core Combat which is usually day one of the week. Tomorrow I get to tackle a new video, Buns and Guns, I saw it was a short one so that is kind of exciting! Not that I don't want to work out with Mike and TapoutXT,  but it's nice to know that you are going to get your workout in, in under an hour. Once you reach this point you really start to get into a routine with it and it just because part of your daily life. No big deal to take the time to TapoutXT. I find eating healthy becomes easier at this point too because you are starting to see real results and you know that it is a combination of both the exercise and the nutrition. If your out there and thinking about quitting don't! You'll be glad you stuck with it in the end! 


Breakfast: grapes and 2 oranges
Lunch: shrimp and broccoli
Snack: Yogurt
Dinner: Beef and green beans

Day 21 Tapout XT

Rest - A/K/A Grass cut day. Not too much of a workout today with the grass, which I guess is good since it is technically a rest day. No humidity and the fact the grass was dried out  really lightened the workout load today. Got a little burn in there but not much. I am still feeling a bit sore, but I have a feeling for the next sixty some what days I will be feeling sore.  Been taking my vitamins and drinking more water. Still on the eating healthy band wagon. Haven't had alcohol, fast food, or soda in 21 days. Best I have felt in awhile minus the soreness of my arms and shoulders from all those push-ups, up-downs, and mountain climbers.

Breakfast: 6 slices of turkey
Lunch: chicken ceasar salad, 2 oranges
Snack: grapes
Dinner: grilled shrimp, brocolli, and carrots
Snack: yogurt

Day 20 Tapout XT

Sprawl and Brawl - Another good workout. Love this one. Straight to the point in 46 minutes! No frills just thrills. Throw your punches, kick those legs, and hit the ground for those push-ups. Nothings better than a high intensity workout that gets you drenched! My body is sore though. After 20 days I am seeing results, but I am also feeling the pain. Less than I was in week one, but still some tightness in the mornings. I love that I am seeing progress. Today I did full out push-ups , the pop-ups and the shoulder slaps. Quite impressive after only 20 days.

Weight: 147.5
BMI: 23.1

Breakfast: 6 turkey slices
Snack: orange
Lunch: 2 bell peppers stuffed with chicken and white beans and fat free cheese
Snack: 2 oranges, grapes
Dinner: chicken and white beans and 2 oranges
Snack: yogurt with almonds

Day 19 Tapout XT

Legs and Back - Another hard workout, but another good one. I  feel like I am pushing hard when I do this one. I know it's called legs and back ,but I really feel it in my abs as well. Last weekend I did this one right after I woke up and I didn't really feel like I got what I should of out of it. Today I did it at my normal time and got so much more out of it! I need to stick to my schedule no matter what day of the week it is. I just am a workout in the afternoon kind of person. I think that is something you have to figure out to make a program work for you for the long haul. When is your body ready to workout. Mine isn't ready till the afternoon. You try and push it in the morning and you aren't going to get much out of it. My advice to you today is figure this one out and I bet you will get more out of your daily workout.

Breakfast: 1 scrambled egg, 3 sausage links
Lunch: white bean and crawfish
Snack: turkey, orange
Dinner: bell peppers stuffed with shredded chicken and white beans
Snack: orange

image courtesy of tapoutxt.com

Day 18 Tapout XT

Yoga XT - As everyone who reads this blog regularly knows my workout partner and I always skip yoga xt and do something else, never as much fun as Tapout, because of previous injuries. Last weekend we dug a really big hole and today  we took it out to the total gym and worked on our abs and then we hit the pavement walking. Nothing exciting but something is better than nothing. Got to keep moving. Looking forward to Legs and Back tomorrow. Always a good one!

Breakfast: slice of pork
Lunch: pork, green beans, and corn
Dinner: baked salmon, zucchini and squash
Snack: Yogurt

Day 17 Tapout XT

Plyo - Drenched! That's what I was after the end of this workout. This is one of the best workouts to get your heart rate up in the set so far I think. I think this one is tougher than the cardio DVD.  I do find myself yelling at the t.v. more often then not because Mike is really pushing you in this one. I also just have to say that Eric in the video bares a striking resemblance to a young Carson Daly! Back during his TRL days. But back to the workout. This was round three of this workout too and every time I do the workout I am able to accomplish more and more. You get out of it what you put in it and today I put it all into the workout and am really starting to see results! Keep pushing! To quit does not exist!

Breakfast: 2 boiled eggs
Lunch: crawfish and white beans
Dinner: pork, green beans, and corn
Snack: yogurt

Day 16 Tapout xt

Strength and Force Upper + Ultimate Abs - This was round three with this video. I remember the first go around I could barely make it through the first 40 minutes but this time made it all the way through both workouts and actually felt pretty good. I'm itching for some new videos to be thrown in next week but I'm just going to have to wait. My only complaint about this workout is the length. The Strength and Force portion is over 50 mins and the the abs portion is another 15 minutes. I have to agree with some other bloggers out there that the abs video should have been put on a different day. It's a lot of ab work and I don't feel by the time the second workout rolls around I am giving it my all because my body is sore and tired. Granted I finished them both, but the second workout just didn't get my all there at the end.

Breakfast: 2 hard boiled eggs
Lunch: chicken zuccini boats
Snack: 2 oranges, turkey
Dinner : Crawfish and white beans with corn

Day 15 Tapout XT

Cross Core Combat - This was the 2nd round with this DVD. This one people is my least favorite DVD in the set. The workout is hard. Push-up, plank, superman repeat! The good thing about it is at least it is one of the shorter workouts. I was tired before I even started yesterday since I decided to brave the southern heat and cut the over grown grass outside my house. Bad idea. Should have done Tapout XT first. Probably would have enjoyed the workout more. The good thing though is I felt like I had done one heck of a workout yesterday when it was all said and done. Still seeing results and that is what keeps driving me. After 15 days of all the programs I have done this one is my favorite. Love the cardio and the martial arts influence in the workouts. I also like that I'm not committing 2 hours a day to the TV to workout. No pain no gain. Keep on pushing!

Breakfast: 2 hard boiled eggs
Lunch: turkey burger no bread, orange
Snack: orange
Dinner: chicken zucchini boats, orange

Day Fourteen Tapout XT

Rest Day- And boy was I thankful for it. I have been really tired and sore lately and needed a true rest day. I walked 1 mile and other than that just ate my usual healthy stuff. Tomorrow is Cross Core Combat. Can't believe it's been two weeks. It has really gone by fast. If you are thinking about doing the program you really should. It's a tough program but it gets easier each day and I have found it a fun way to get in shape!

Breakfast: 2 hard boiled eggs
Lunch: zuccinni chicken pie, orange
Snack: 2 oranges
Dinner: turkey burger, corn,  beans, and salad
Snack: fat free sugar free yogurt with nuts

Day Thirteen Tapout XT

Cardio XT - 46 minutes of non-stop sweat. I really thought I was going to quit on this one. First off the set is different than in the previous videos. This one takes you to a MMA gym to get your workout on. Second even the video participants looked like they were dying in this one! There were three of them and they looked they were going to die just like I felt like I was going to die. Jumping jack, sprints in place, knee highs, butt kicks, punches, front kicks, up downs, you name this video has them all! I pushed through and by the end was dripping wet. Then the ab ripper video came on! OMG more workout! I was in shock but to quit does not exist and I pushed on through. I feel like I really burned the fat on this workout. So glad tomorrow is a rest day cause I know I am going to be hurting from this one!

Breakfast: 2 hard boiled eggs
Lunch: shrimp stir fry, black berries
Snack: orange
Dinner: zucchini chicken pie (better than it sounds)
Snack: 2 oranges

Day Twelve Tapout XT

Legs and Back - This video is one of my favorites, but today it was my enemy. Work up early to get my workout out the way, but was so sore from digging that big hole that the whole workout was quite the struggle. I pushed through it though and finished all 40 plus minutes of it, but I am not going to say it was easy. I did have one exciting moment in the workout when I realized that I could do the superman and then actually do the pop-up into the push-up. 12 days ago I couldn't even do a real push-up and now I am doing pop-up push-ups. Pretty cool!

Breakfast: -----
Lunch : chicken caesar salad
Snack: turkey, grapes, black berries
Dinner: shrimp and vegetables in a garlic sauce
Snack: 1 hard boiled egg

Day Eleven Tapout XT

Yoga XT - Otherwise known as skip the yoga DVD cause I can't do it with a broken foot and go dig a hole outside day. Yep instead of yoga-ing it up I chose to go out into the 98 degree heat and dig some holes for a pool that will hopefully be put up shortly. Felt like I actually got in a pretty good workout from it. 2 hrs, loads of sweat, and lots of biceps, leg and back work. Ready to get back to my normal workout tomorrow! I would rather workout with Mike than dig holes in the heat!

Breakfast: 1 scrambled egg, 3 turkey sasauge links
Lunch: Beef strips, green beans, and peppers
Dinner: chicken caesar salad
Snack: boiled shrimp

Day Ten Tapout XT

Plyo XT - Second round of plyo so much better than the first round of plyo! It was still a challenge but  at least this time around I didn't feel like I was going to die. The greatest part is I am seeing results in my endurance and strength and it has only been 10 days! After the workout it was time to weigh in. I knew I had lost weight before I stepped on the scale but the question as to how much still was hanging in the balance. I was thinking maybe 3-4lbs but when I saw the number I was floored! 8lbs down! I couldn't believe it. Sticking with the 10 day slim down plan and the exercise calendar really worked. The past 10 days haven't been easy but pushing myself has really paid off. Don't quit out there if your on the program stick with it! You can do it!

Breakfast: 2 zucchini tots

Lunch: zucchini egg and onion omelet, chicken and pepper

Dinner: chicken caesar salad

Snack: grapes

Stats:
Weight: 149lbs
BMI: 23.6

Day 9 TapoutXT

Strength and Force Upper + Ultimate Abs - When I did this video on day 2 I thought I was going to die before I even made it to the end. I couldn't even make it through the entire Ultimate Abs portion. But today was a different story. Not only did I make it through the first video, which is not a short one clocking in at over 50 minutes, but I rocked Ultimate Abs and even kept up with the killer move. In just 9 days I have improved. That's something to be excited about! Granted I don't look like the people on the infomercial but like I said in the beginning you have to set realistic goals and get excited when you reach them. Looking forward to weigh in tomorrow.

Breakfast: zucchini egg and onion omlet
Lunch: turkey burger, baked zucchini strips, corn
Snack: orange
Dinner: chicken teriyaki, salad, miso soup, and 3 california rolls

Day Eight Tapout XT

Competition Core: 48 minutes of straight forward core work. Lots of sprints and band work. Not too much on the ground pounding the crunches though. The lunges with the stand up crunch in this one almost killed me. Great Ab workout though. Really liked how the bands were thrown in there. My favorite part about this program is that everyday I really feel like I can feel changes. It's an awesome feeling. One thing you have to remember when doing a program like this is that nutrition is a key factor in getting the results you want. You have to put the right fuel in your body. This has been the toughest part for me. I love fast food and there is no fast food on the TapoutXT workout plan. During the 10 day slim down, which comes to a close tomorrow, there is no bread on the plan either which has also been a challenge. It's hard but feeling better and seeing results already has kept me focused. If your doing the program too, don't quit! Stick with it. You can do it!

Breakfast: 2 hard boiled eggs
Lunch: spinach salad with carrots and fat free cheese low fat itallian dressing, a small protion of shredded chicken, corn, and black beans
Snack: Black grapes and an orange
Dinner: turkey burger (no bun) w/ cheese and bbq sauce, baked zucchini, and corn

photo curtsy of tapoutxt.com 

Day Seven Tapout XT

Rest Day - I really missed my Tapout XT today. I know that I needed to rest, but I was itching to at least do the abs workout, but I  refrained. Instead on my off day I cut the grass. This might have been just as hard of a workout as Tapout XT today. The heat index was over hundred and it was 6 o'clock in the afternoon. I was dripping by the time I finished. So far I am really impressed with the results and I am only 7 days in. I feel better, look better, and am healthier than I have been in quite some time! Can't wait to step on the scale and see how much it moved. 3 more days till the first weigh in.

Breakfast: 2 hard boiled eggs
Lunch: 1 bell pepper stuffed with shredded chicken and white beans, and a side of shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and tomatoes
Snack: Orange, black seedless grapes
Dinner: grilled flounder, carrots, and corn and black bean salad

Day Six Tapout XT

Sprawl and Brawl - 46 minutes of pure sweating madness is how I would describe it! This one was non-stop up and down punching, kicking, sit-ups, and push-ups. Anyone who tells you this one didn't work you didn't give it their all. It feels like everyday the videos get harder and harder but I know that is a good thing cause that means everyday I get the most out of the workout I can. This one starts out just like the rest with a warm-up that consists of high knees, jumping jacks, and some butt kicks before moving into the actual workout out. It was tough to keep up with this one and most of the moves I had to modify, but even with the modification of the pop-up push-ups and lunges I still feel like I was pushed to my limits with this workout. I do wish there were more stretches at the end of the video. I spent some extra time after sprawl and brawl  stretching since I was feeling pretty tight in my legs. Ready for that rest day tomorrow.

Breakfast: 2 hard boiled eggs
Lunch: chicken and white bean filled bell peppers, orange
Snack: grapes and an orange
Dinner: shredded baked chicken with black beans and corn
Snack: Orange

photo courtesy of tapoutxt.com

Day Five Tapout XT

Legs and Back - This workout so far is my favorite! Talk about making you sweat. I was dripping within the first 15 minutes. Lots of band work and explosive moves that not only get your heart rate going, but make your muscles feel the burn. You start out with a warm-up that consists of jumping jacks, high knees, and some speed skaters to name a few moves and then you move right into the workout. Jumping jacks with the foot band, push-ups with the foot band, and some high knees with the running band. You also get some arm band work thrown in there for good measure. My favorite move with the bands is the tire throw. I could really feel all the muscles working to pull that band over my head. This is one of the shorter videos clocking in at around 45 minutes, but it moves so fast that it is over before you know it. I know it is only day 5, but I am already starting to see and feel some changing in my arms and abs. Can't wait till weigh in 5 days!

I'm not going to lie this week's food intake hasn't been easy . I have always been one to work out, but eating super healthy has always been a challenge. I have been good this week staying away from the breads for the 10 day slim down,but yes I have been craving them. What helps though, is the fact that I am starting to see the change I want to see and I feel better than ever.

Breakfast: Orange
Lunch: Grilled Turkey Burger (no bun), black bean salad with corn tomatoes and onions
Snack: boiled shrimp with bell peppers
Dinner: Bell peppers stuffed with baked chicken and white beans with fat free cheese and an orange

image courtesy of tapoutxt.com

Day Four Tapout XT

Yoga XT is the fourth workout in the Tapout XT series. It is the only one so far that was lower impact. Be ready for plank after plank after plank. Unlike the yoga found in the P90X series this video is doable if you have the wrist strength.  There weren't any crazy yoga poses just lots of repetition of the same poses that would be found at an intermediate yoga class. If  you already have good upper body strength than you should do ok with this one. For me it was a challenge. I am recovering from a broken foot and my workout partner has broken their wrist several times so this video was a challenge for us. We stuck with it as long as we could but our bodies couldn't take the plank, sun salutation, and downward dog repetitions.  We had to wave the white flag half way through, but we didn't want to not do a workout, so we popped in the ab ripper video, did some Shotokan katas,  and then took a walk. 

I kept up with the meal plan eating 2 scramble eggs and 3 turkey sausage links for breakfast, grilled eggplant, onions, and bell peppers with grilled tilapia for lunch, some broccoli soup for a snack, and grilled turkey burgers cut with zuccini, minus the bun, with some black bean salad for dinner.  As always I stayed hydrated with plenty of water. 

photo courtesy of tapout.com

Day Three Tapout XT

Plyo XT - Everyday it seems the workouts get a little bit tougher. This workout pushed me to my limits again. My legs felt like jello by the time this one was over. Lunge after lunge punch after punch I could really feel the workout working my body. The warm-up today was a little bit different throwing in some jump roping and hip flexer stretches. The cool down today focused more on actually stretching your muscles out than in previous days. The workout clocked in at 51 minutes so a bit shorter than yesterdays which was nice.

My food intake for the 10 day slim down has been going well. Not too many cravings. For breakfast today I stuck with my old favorite 2 hard bowled eggs and for lunch I ate the last of my grilled chicken mandarin salad. I spiced things up for dinner baking some tilapia, making a fruit salad, and eating some broccoli.  Ready to do it again tomorrow!

image courtesy of tapoutxt.com

Day Two Tapout XT

Strength and Force Upper + Ultimate Abs - Not going to lie these two workouts kicked my butt yesterday! This workout is intense and pushes you the full 53 minutes of the workout. Don't look for any breathers on this DVD cause there aren't any. The warm-up is pretty much the same as in the previous DVD but that is actually the only thing similar. The workout is full of push-up combination and band exercises. I have to say I enjoyed this workout more than the previous one, Cross Core Combat, just because I sweat more.  Around the 30 minute mark I was feeling it pretty good through my abs, biceps, and triceps. By the time the end of the first workout, yes there are two workouts on day two, rolled around I was completely spent. After a grueling 53 minutes of upper body there was another 15 minutes of ab work. I will be honest I only made it through 9 minutes of the ab workout. I am one to keep pushing, but there was nothing left to push last night. Anyone who tells you these exercises don't work obviously isn't giving it their all!
Food wise I stuck by my standards from yesterday: 2 hard bowled eggs, two slices of turkey, and for lunch and dinner I ate the mandarin chicken salad recipe, along with drinking plenty of water. So far no hungry spots yet!

photo courtesy of http://www.tapoutxt.com/workouts.html

Day One Tapout XT

Cross Core Combat the first workout you experience during the 90 day challenge that is Tapout XT.  Be ready for push-ups, but not your everyday push-up these push-ups are explosive! From the get go this workout is jammed packed with moves that will challenge you, but not discourage you. The warm up is your average warm-up encompassing jumping jacks, high knees, and butt kicks. From there you move into your push-ups, planks, superman's, some band work, with some punches and kicks thrown in there for good measure. The workout is intense and most people will need to modify the moves to meet their fitness level. I didn't have a problem completing the workout nor did I feel super drained afterwards. I actually felt energized and ready for tomorrow. I did opt to modify the push-ups, dropping to my knees so that I could complete the reps demanded but I don't feel like this took away from the intensity workout at all.
Today was also the first day of following the 10 day slim down nutrition guide. I have to say I made the mandarin chicken salad and it was really filling and satisfying. For breakfast I had 2 hard bowl eggs followed up with some grapes as a snack today. I drank plenty of water and surprisingly didn't feel hungry at all today. Day one down! Bring on day 2!

photo courtesy of tapoutxt.com

TapoutXT Package

It is day one of my TapoutXT journey. I received my TAPOUT XT package in the mail yesterday and excitedly went through it. It came in a box similar to what my P90X was delivered in. Everything looked as it did in the infomercial with a few extra pieces of information regarding consulting your doctor before you start any exercise program and a couple of flyers about following TapoutXT on facebook and twitter. The 10 day slim down guide gives you 10 days worth of recipes to follow to help you loose 10lbs quickly when starting the program. . The nutrition plan is a bit more in depth outlining what you should eat, what you shouldn't, and why certain foods are good or bad for you. Next I watched the Strike DVD. This DVD outlines what the punches and kicks are called and how to properly execute them. It’s only 7 minutes long, give or take a minute.  The bands seem to be pretty good quality, but I will have to wait and see if they stand the 90 day challenge. The workout calendar allows you space for a before pic, a 10 day pic, a 30 day pic, a 60 day pic, and a 90 day pic. The program states that you should weigh yourself at these bench mark days and no days in between.  The towel is bigger than I thought it would be and an added bonus is a TapoutXT window decal.  So far so good. Time to look at my stats and see if I can make them move in my favor!

Stats:

Weight: 157.7

BMI: 24.5

Goals

Realistic goals are something you have to set for yourself when starting any exercise program. Although I am really excited about starting Tapout XT I realize that I have to set attainable goals so that I do not get discourage. I like to set  bench marks. These allow you to gain a source of accomplishment and build some confidence in yourself while ultimately working towards a larger goal. For me my overall goal is to loose 10lbs in 90 days, so within the first month I would like to loose 4 lbs, another 4 lbs in the second month, and 2 lbs in the last month. I know my body and I know that the first month will be easy if I stick with the plan, but the last month will be tough since by then my body will have gotten over the initial shock of the program. Setting these small goals will help keep me focused and keep me excited about the program. No matter what type of exercise program you are starting try this method and see if it helps keep you on track for a longer period of time. 

Tapout XT Bought!

Tapout XT ordered! The first step in starting the program, shelling out the money, is DONE! Now comes the waiting game. Waiting for the package to come to my door. I purchased the basic package which is 3 payments of $39.95 plus $24.95 in shipping and handling. There is a more expensive version that is offered at checkout, but I chose to pass on this option. The package I bought comes with 12  workouts, a strike training DVD , XT Pro-Grade Resistance Band, XT Training Leg Band, 10-Day Slim Down Guide, TapouT XT Nutrition Guide, Workout Calendar, Fitness Guide and the TapouT XT Workout Towel. As you check out you are offered a few items to purchase such as more workout bands, an energy spray, a warranty package for your kit, and the option to pay in full. I passed on all these options and just stuck with the kit that was offered and advertised on the infomercial.  There are a ton of workout programs out there, and I have tried many of the them, but what really sparked my interest about this one was the fact that it centered around martial arts, MMA, and seemed more cardio focused than the P90X that I bought. P90X is a great program, but it focuses a little to much on strength training where I want to focus on endurance and building lean muscle. As I wait for my package to arrive I will set some goals and post some before pics.  Then, for the next 90 days, I will chronicle my progress and see if it really works if you follow the plan.

Get Moving

Sometimes people forget that just a little bit a movement can go a long
way. For example lets say you know you won't be able to get a 30 minute
workout in before or after work, we all have those days, but lets say you
have 5 minutes after you finish your lunch. Instead of going back to your
desk and hitting the grind again go outside and take a 5 minute walk.
Walking for just 5 minutes is better than not walking at all throughout the
whole day. My point today is to learn how to fit quick little segments of
exercise into your day without taking away from other things that you may
not be able to get out of. Another great way to get some cardio in your day
is to take the stairs instead of the elevator. Sure you not sweating it out
at the gym but you are keeping your body moving and that is half of the
battle. Small things can make all the difference in the world. Remember
even the smallest can change can help you reach your fitness goals!

Hi-Ya!

People are always trying to keep their workouts fun and interesting and they usually do this by trying out different fitness classes. What people often don't think about is incorporating martial arts into their fitness regime. Martial arts are a great source of both cardiovascular exercise and strength building techniques. I am a huge proponent of women discovering the art from not only the fitness aspect, but for the self defense and empowerment that martial arts gives to its practitioners. There is also a sense of accomplishment that comes along with studying martial arts. You have the opportunity to be recognized as you progress with your training by being awarded colored belts. Which is great for those days when you really don't feel like working out, knowing that you will be graded at some point gives you that extra push you might need to get to class. Anyone that practices martial arts will tell you that training should not be about moving up in rank, but about learning and practicing the art to the best of your ability. Here are a few tips if you are interested in taking a martial arts class:

1) Make sure to research different styles of martial arts before committing to one.

2) Go to an introductory class before committing to anything just to make sure you like it.

3) Don't sign a lengthy contract for any martial art school.

The Idiots Guide to Martial Arts is a great book that gives you a good overview of vast number of martial arts. Google is also a good tool to use to research facilities in your area.

Mondays Are Tough

After a long day at work the last thing I wanted to do today was come home, put my gym clothes on, and hit the mat, but I did it! It's tough on a monday to stay motivated. You work all day trying to catch up from the weekend and at the end of your shift you are usually ready to just go sit on the couch, watch some t.v., and chill. What helped me today though was having a workout buddy. Today is not an X-Factor workout day, it's a do whatever you want for 30 minutes or one of the extra DVDs and if I wouldn't have had someone counting on me to meet them at the studio I probably wouldn't have worked out. Today's lesson is get a buddy. They help hold you accountable for getting your workout in. They push you and you push them and it makes your workout world a better place!

Show Me the Abs!

Today was another day on my X-Factor journey. I popped in the abs workout and felt the burn! It was a short workout coming in at just over 16 minutes, but in those 16 minutes I never stopped pushing. I felt that workout all day in my abdomen! It got me thinking about when I was younger and how I use to think that you needed to do 1000 sit-ups a day to get that six pack everyone dreams about, but what I found with age and experience is sit-ups are great, but there are a few exercises that I really enjoy that help get my abs get stronger without my back ever hitting the floor. One of my all-time favorite exercises is the plank. It really gives you a lot of bang for your buck. It not only helps you in your quest for rock solid abs, it also helps you tone the rest of your body while making you stronger and fitter. You will find when you first start planking you won't be able to hold your form for very long, but if you work at it every other day within a few weeks you will see great progress in the amount of time you can hold your form. Another exercise I really like is the squat leg lift. This exercise really works your obliques while throwing in a little something extra for the legs. The greatest part is you never even come close to the floor. You just stand in horse stance, squat, lift left leg, squat, lift right leg and repeat. It's easy and great for people who hate the mundane everyday sit-up. Uppercuts are another great way to work those abs! Keeping the abs tight while throwing some uppercuts gets the heart pumping while helping you sculpt your six-pack. Remember rock hard abs don't happen over night. It's a long journey to the body of your dreams, but if you keep at it one day you will get there.

Pushing!

After a long day at work the last thing I really wanted to do was go home and break a sweat, but something inside me said just do it you, will be glad you did later. So I broke out my X-Factor DVD set, popped in disc 1, and felt the burn. Best thing I did today. I was so stressed out before I worked out, but afterwards I was relaxed and the worries of the work week had faded away. People always talk about a runners high, but in actuality any type of workout can get you feeling good and in a better mood. It just takes 30 minutes a day and you can be fitter and be in a healthier state of mind. People ask me all the time how do I motivate myself to workout 6 days a week and I tell them for me my body is a work in progress. Every time I exercise I change a little piece of it and to me that's exciting. That's the thing, you have to become ok with not seeing instant results. Becoming healthier takes time and you have to get into the mind set that it isn't going to happen over night. I tell everyone get excited about the possibility of molding your body into a work of art you can be proud of.

The Burn Is On!

Last night I was looking through the Wal-Mart sale paper when I stumbled upon an ad for Weider's X-Factor: ST. I have to say I am a sucker for DVD programs that claim to be the whole package and will get you to looking like that lean, mean, fighting machine you have always dreamed of being, so with the tag line, "the body you want in 8 weeks!" they had me hook, line, and sinker. The price really grabbed my attention as well. For $29.99 I figured why not just buy it and try it out. I waste 30 bucks on stupid stuff every month and who knows this could just be the thing I have been searching for. Off to the store I went and was really surprised when I got home and opened the boxed. The program comes with 12 DVDs, two push-up circles, a nutrition plan, a workout chart, and a food diary. The kicker is the stuff you would think would be on paper is actually on a disc. This was a new concept to me since I was looking for a book to thumb through, but the PDF versions work just as well and are more environmentally friendly. The nutrition guide is pretty well thought out, giving you not only a plan to work with, but grocery lists and recipes for you to follow as well. Next I took a look at the DVDs. You get 12 DVDs total. You have 8 DVDs with workouts for the 8 weeks with work outs specific to that week and 5 DVDs that you alternated in every other day. The extra 5 are abs, yoga, glutes and thighs, and total body. The program gives you the option of throwing in which ever one you want to do on the day you don't do the scheduled week DVD. I popped the first DVD of the set in today and really liked the work out. The entire workout was a little over 30 minutes with warm-up and cool down. It was challenging but not to the point where I wanted to throw something at the TV. Being someone with ADD the workout kept me interested and motivated. It really made me want to do it again tomorrow. Let's see if I can stick with it for the full 8wks.