Days 9 - 15 of Chalean Extreme

Hello Friends!

Don't think I've slacken off with Burn phase :)  I am right on track!

I did notice though that on the Burn Circuit 3, which focuses on shoulders and legs, that my shoulders did loose some of its strength,  which doesn't surprise me as my shoulders is a weak spot for me.  On the last round I could do 15lbs shoulder presses, now for my shoulder exercises I am down to 12lbs and 10lbs (depending) which I guess is not bad, I mean I don't necessarily want to look like I am wearing shoulder pads ;)  

My eating habits have not been the best lately, so I will come clean on that score.  I mean during the day I've been fine, drinking my shakeology, my snacks, and my lunches have all been good...its right after dinner.  When the kids are all settled, and I am waiting for my p90x buddy to get home.  He has been doing major overtime, so he gets home around 9pm...and I am bored! there I said it, I've been eating out of boredom! ugh! and I know better than that.  But oddly enough, based on my fitnesspal diary even with the not so good choices I am making after dinner,  am still around 1700-1800 calories per day.  So I am thinking that on a a subconsciousness level I know I will succumb at night time, and therefore my calories during the day are not as high?  it can also be that I switched to PB2 so my calories in my shake in the morning is not as high...but still if I would have refrained from eating when I don't need to I could have probably broken my weight plateau!  

I've noticed that if I "vow" things here on my blog, I really do stick to what I say, so here I go!

 I solemnly vow that I will not be doing any eating out of sheer boredom...and I can do some Hustle while I wait for Angel to come home ;)

Beachbody Challenge Packs!

Hi Friends!

I want to give the 411 on  Beachbody Challenge and Challenge Packs since I've been getting so many questions! 

Many people plan to hit it hard come January 1st, the nice thing about these packs is that the challenge is not wait! its about starting to GET FIT NOW.  As your coach, I am dedicated to help you reach your goals.  I am not about providing you a  a quick fix or over hyped diet.  You want results, you gotta work baby!   by combing fitness, nutrition and accountability.  These Challenge Packs will help you achieve your goals at a great discount! Awesome, huh?

What is in a Challenge Pack (CP)? A premium workout program of your choice, your first order of Shakeology HD, a 1 month trial membership to the Team Beachbody Club (where you can create personalized meal plans and get even more support) and personal support from ME as your coach. Below is a chart showing your choice of the current workouts in the packs and the prices. 

                                                             

Here are 3 options you can choose from.

1~ Purchase a CP and join a dedicated Beachbody Challenge Group hosted by ME! This is the perfect option for someone who is ready to take charge and make a change with their nutrition and fitness habits! You will be in a group of 5 people who all have similar goals and who will all be doing the same workout program for 30-90 days. We will check in DAILY and you will receive intensive personal support from me as your coach to keep you in check with your workouts and nutrition. I will only be able to host a limited number of these each month so please email me at carroyo@beachbodycoach.com for current group availability or to be placed on a waiting list.

2~ Purchase a CP without being in a group. This is for people who's main goal may be to switch up their current routine and who may already have an accountability plan in place. You will still have my full support as a coach and can always opt to join a group at a later time! I highly recommend option 1 but life is all about choices, yes? If you feel like you can't, or don't want to, commit to a group at this time option 2 will still give you a great discount and breathe some new life into your fitness routine.

3~ Purchase a CP and become a Beachbody Coach at the same time! Your initial start up fee will be waived and you will receive a Game Plan Tools Kit and Business Essentials Starter Program at no extra charge! Looking for an extra layer of accountability? Are you already inspiring others with the lifestyle changes you've been making? Do you have people you would be referring to a Challenge Group yourself? Maybe you've always been curious about coaching but held back from taking the plunge? THIS OPTION IS FOR YOU! You can still choose to be in a group or not and you have my promise that I will match your commitment level 100%, with your fitness and coaching goals.

Not sure what program is best for you or you have other questions? Hit me up on facebook or email me at carroyo@beachbodycoach.com 

Want even MORE incentive to take on the Beachbody Challenge? Check out this short video to see how you can benefit AND win some serious cash just for getting healthy and fit!

So, are you up for the Challenge??I truly hope the answer is YES! :-))

Day 8 of Chalean Extreme - Burn Circuit 1

Howdy!

So mission accomplished! Burn Circuit 1 done! So that means I am starting off week 2 with a bang!   I am seriously considering getting the Select Techs...the 20lbs are not as challenging, but the 25lbs are a bit too much, I would think that the 22 1/2 lbs will be perfect for some of the exercises.

My eating has been a bit off, I think its because I am still hanged up with the Thanksgiving Holiday.  So yesterday, my meal plan was as follows:

6:30am - Shakeology with 5-6 frozen Strawberries  and one spoon of PB2

10:0am - 2nd Shakeology with 1/2 a banana, ice and one spoon of PB2

12:30pm - Turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread and cranberry sauce - 1 orange

4:30pm - Yoplait Light Blueberry

8:00pm - whole wheat pasta with sauteed onion, mushroom, bell pepper with left over filet mignon, with only 1 tablespoon of alfredo sauce (or less, it was very little) and half a nut muffing from Mimi's cafe...

and well the muffin was my downfall for last night's meal.   As you can tell I did 2 shakes, after overeating like I did during the Thanksgiving break, drinking shakeology makes my insides better if you know what I mean, I feel lighter, and have more bounce in my step when working out it takes all the sluggishness away.  I am still thinking about the 3 day cleanse, but before I do I need to purchase some greens for my salad and I haven't had time to swing by costco.  Evenings have been hectic at home, usually get home, sit down and help Ximena with her homework, start dinner, eat dinner, hang out with the older kids and have conversation with them while we eat, then spend a few minutes with the youngest ones, then its bed time...last time I wasn't lucky so they went to bed without a shower, which considering the weather at least they are not all stinky! LOL

So the plan tonight:

Ximena Homework
Dinner
Quality time with the kiddos (this may include bath time)
Practice TK44 full round
Bed Time!

keep your fingers crossed so that all goes as planned!

Days 4-8 of Chalean Extreme

Hey Hey Hey!

Don't think I've have forgotten about my strength training! :)  Here is a Recap!

Day 4 - Thanksgiving Day:  On Thursday I decided to wake up early enough to get my Burn Intervals done before I started cooking for the Thanksgiving meal! Mission Accomplished!  I got my workout of the way, and I started cooking and enjoying my day with the family.  While I was cooking I didn't really obsessed with calories, and finding healthier substitutions...I just wanted to cook and enjoy the day with my kids.  We had a huge turkey, we also had Ham, and we also grilled a piece of Filet Mignon.  We had the usual side dishes, the green been casserole, smashed potatoes, apple,sausage,onion stuffing, and of course the pumpkin pies! (please note the plural on the pies!)

Big Turkey!

My Stuffing - Light on the bread

Omar grated some cheese!

Ximena helped with the pumpkin pies!

Eric helped with the Ham!

We made Foot and Hand Turkeys!

Ximena was grateful for the "Turkey"

Eric and Will Thankful for the pies!  

Day 5: Black Friday -- well today was supposed to be my  day for Burn Circuit 3 and I have to admit that I skipped this day, I did not do it despite my intentions of completing it after we had gone to watch the Muppets movie and the do a bit of black Friday shopping.  So I decided to come clean and admit that I skipped out on the workout for this day, BUT I need to put in my plug so that you go and watch The Muppets!  so fun, makes you feel good, the songs are great!  the jokes are well written, even my teenagers enjoyed it!   

Day 6 - All the food and family time and Skipped on the Burn it Off and Recharge....

Day 7 - Rest day!

So there you have it....week 1 of chalean extreme was not perfect....but this week I am committed to make it it PERFECT and follow the schedule to the T!  Tonight I have burn circuit 1 - and I am not missing it!  Have a great Fitness week! Lets Bring It!  -- now after the Thanksgiving Eats...I feel I need a Shakeology Cleanse, I know my body and I will be thankful for it! 

3 Day Shakeology Cleanse Details

The Shakeology® 3-Day Cleanse

The key is to follow the same regimen all three days.

Essentials:

3 Shakeology shakes per day 2 cups of green tea per day 1 or 2 pieces of fruit per day (optional) 1 salad for dinner—can include fish or poultry No dairy or extra sugars (this includes almond and soy milk)! Drink 2 to 4 liters of water every day Only use low-fat dressings, and go easy on the salt and/or pepper to taste 2 snacks before/after any of the major meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) Fruit is optional, and it is discouraged (however, some of you will need the calories while others may not) Power-workout participants (those who are already super conditioned) are recommended the higher numbers of calories For maximum results, do NOT use additives Dinner salad may include WHITE GRILLED PROTEIN—poultry or fish only.

Daily Regimen:

1 cup of green tea to start the day

Breakfast:

1 scoop Shakeology (140 calories) 1/2 cup of fruit (60 to 90 calories)—optional Ice to taste 8 to10 oz. of water

Snack 1 (85 calories): 1 piece of fruit (apple, pear, orange, banana mango, etc.)

Lunch:

1 scoop Shakeology (140 calories) Ice to taste 8to10oz.ofwater

1 cup of green tea or a detox tea

Snack 2: (you can have the second snack before or after dinner) 1 scoop Shakeology (140 calories) Ice to taste 8 to10 oz. of water

Dinner:

Salad with grilled white fish or poultry (roughly 340 calories) Greens—3 servings of vegetables, plus 4 oz. of grilled white meat (fish or poultry) 2 tablespoons of dressing—no more!

Shakeology 3-Day Cleanse FAQ

Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions:

1.    How many calories per day? 800 to 1,100 calories per day

2.    How often can I do the Shakeology 3-Day Cleanse? Ideally, you should do it once per quarter (every 3 months)--as the seasons change, before starting a new workout program, when you feel you need help breaking through a plateau.

3.    Should/Can I still do my workouts during the Cleanse? Depends on the individual.  You’ll have less energy than normal, so consider doing it during a recovery week.  Do not do in the middle of P90X® or INSANITY®

4.    Can I do a 1-day or a 2-day cleanse instead of a 3-day? Yes! Some people will see results with one or two days.  We recommend against continuing the cleanse for more than three days 5.    Should/Can I take other Beachbody® supplements during the Cleanse? Results and Recovery FormulaTM: No, too much sugar/calories.  Other products (Omega-3, etc.): Not necessary, but won’t hurt either...

Day 3 of Chalean Extreme!

Good morning!

Today is day 3 of Chalean Extreme!  I didn't want to get up this morning to tackle my workout!  it is my day off, I wanted to lounge more in bed.  But when I woke up everybody was still sleeping.  The only ones that were awake and active were my 2 cats who happened to have a bit of a disagreement, not sure over what, so I got up and scooted them outside so that they could take a chill pill.  I was up! so I said, well I might as well get my tennis shoes on (Because for my pijamas I always sleep with my workout clothes so all I have to do is put on my shoes in the morning -- yeah I've been told by my husband that I am "lazy" for doing that, I say its a way to ensure I do what I plan the night before ;)

That was around 7am, so I knew that the kids would wake up soon, and the only place I can do my turbo is in the living room, so I did that first! I did a full round of 38 -- almost got it!  I only had to refer back to the DVD for the recovery and finale just so that I can "oh yeah, thats the move"  Right at the end of the Finale, guess what all three babies where awak and wanted me to put the disney channel, it was a good thing that I only had like 1 1/2 left of the finale, I made them wait.

 After the Turbo I decided while the kids were being entertained by Disney, to go head to the  garage and tackle Burn Circuit 2!  I still can't believe I haven't lost all of my strenght!  I curled 15lbs, and for some of the row exercises I did 25!  I mean not all of the row, towards the end there I had to go down to 20lbs :)




















Here I am saying "I am done! how about you? Come on! and groove" LOL

Day 2 of Chalean Extreme

Good morning!

Well today is my rest day from Chalean Extreme!   When I woke up this morning, my chest muscles were stiff and sore!  YAY! I welcome the pain...it's been a while since I felt that kind of soreness in my upper body.  

Per the Chalean Extreme schedule, today is my rest day, but  I didn't NOT want to do anything so I  decided to do my Cardio!  What's my favorite cardio?  well if you haven't figure it out already its TURBO! Turbo Jam (which is really for beginners) Turbo Fire, and of course now Turbo Kick!  Since I am now a certified instructor, I get all the awesome music and choreography and I practice to my hearts content!  Speaking of which, this past Saturday I got to showcase the punching section of round 44, a special thanks to Anita the TK instructor that teaches TK on Saturday mornings at the San Mateo Sports 24hr fitness!  It was a great natural high for me to get front and center and showcase that punching section.  I am naturally a quite girl...not one to seek attention.  I remember when I was in 5-6th grade there used to be a talent show at school, I would happily watch my friends practice their dances, but in no way would I have volunteered to participate!  although, thinking back I did participate in the 6th grade Drill Team and we performed for the school. That was so nerve racking!   After it was done I remember thinking to myself, well that's the last time I bring attention to myself! but I must say that I must secretly enjoy being front in center, because in middle school in Mexico I was part of the "escolta" which is a Mexican tradition, kinda like saying the pledge to the flag every morning, but in Mexico its on Monday mornings, and the escolta brings out the flag and then the school sings the national anthem before starting the school week.   So I guess I am a "front and center closet girl" that hasn't come quite come out and declare that she enjoys to perform for the world to see ;)

My 2nd Round of Chalean Extreme!

Wohoo!
Today was my day 1 of Chalean Extreme! this is my 2nd round this year, I did one round in the summer.  It was great. I really wanted to do P90X this fall, but this is the time of year where it gets so hectic at work, separating a full chunk of AT LEAST an hour, its tough!   and Chalean Extreme is only 45min tops!  So I decided to do another round of Chalean Extreme, it just works a lot better with my schedule.

 I wanted to start it almost a month ago, but my garage was a complete mess.  My garage is my gym when it comes to Strength Training this is where I keep my dumbbells, and where I pop in the DVD and push play.  I can't do it in the living room.   However, the garage is also the play room for my kids, and in the break when I stopped lifting, the kids took over that room.   Toys, clothes, blankets were all over the place!  you couldn't walk with out stepping on toys, let alone exercise!

All last week I kept posting about it on Facebook that I need to get back to lifting and that I needed to clean my garage again.  But it was just too daunting! finally on Saturday I put my foot down, and said no more, this mess has to be cleaned up.  I took it section at a time, and 3 hours later, my garage was once again my workout room and the kids playroom.  Once again we share this room!   that I was going get back in the weightlifting.

Normally when we share the room, its more manageable because I make them pick up their toys so that in the morning I can do mystrength training, however since I had stopped, I was lax about having them pick up after themselves.  When I wanted to start up again, I was very overwhelmed with the mess! so I just kept putting it off.  I was like, well I'll just do turbo!  and I must do Turbo in the living room, where the floor aids me to pivot and do my proper form without feeling it in my knees so the need for the garage wasn't a "must". 

What can I say?  My day 1 of Burn Circuit 1 - went well! I was pleasantly surprised that I didn't loose any of my strength  and could still lift somewhat heavy!  for the posterior deltoids (is that it?  the back of the shoulders almost the upper back)  I was doing 15lbs, vs the 12lbs that Chalene was doing...yeah I have to brag about it :)  and I did all the push-ups on my toes, no knee push-ups for me! It was a great surprise...Round 2, here we go again!  LIFT HEAVY OR GO HOME!

I am Super Mom!

Hello my friends!!! LOOONNG TIME no write! I so apologize for my lack of communication via my blog.  Things have been hectic...more than hectic.  Its that time of year when my Accounting job really does pick up.  Its Year End.   Its forecasting time.  Its time to start thinking of 2012.  Its time to start thinking about corporate taxes.

Anyway, I was asked a question the other day...how do I do what I do?  In the past year, I've become a huge fan of Brian Tracy.  He has this particular book, that I want to master and its called Eat That Frog.  It is all common sense stuff that he advises, so why is it so hard to master? Eating my Frog is something that I still struggle with.  But in addition to Brian Tracy's excellent Advice, I am also following Chalene Johnson!  Not with the workouts...although I do Turbo Everyday, BUT  I have to have my priorities clear so that my goals and actions align.   But here its where it gets complicated.  I have priorities and goals for each aspect of my life.  I have 3 Carmen's.

1. Carmen #1 - The mom and wife:  Support  my family, be there emotionally and financially, build my kids confidence way up so that they don't have the same struggles as I do, and be the best supporting wife that I can be, respect my husband, but more than anything be a real partner to him.

2.  Carmen #2 - The Accountant - Provide excellent work in a timely manner.

3.  Carmen #3 - ME  - Be happy with myself, the way to do this is help and support as many people as I can without violating any moral ethics, have time for myself to de-stress and start each day as happy as I can be.

This is how I try to organize myself....each Carmen has about 2-3 Frogs  that she must eat to feel like she had a productive day.  I focus on one individual Frog and I don't look at the other until one is eaten...if I focus on too many frogs, my day is shot and I won't get anything done.

So needless to say my house is a mess, my front and backyard are not worth mentioning.  I've come to terms with the fact that I haven't seen a full season of any one show in over 2 years....I don't even watch a full episode of  any one show.  But this is worth it, because I have certain priorities, certain goals that I need to accomplish.  I don't TV to de-stress...I have my Turbo and Scrapbooking for that.

So there you have it...my life is busy, but not unmanageable and my ladder is against the right wall, so all the steps that I take as I go up, is taking me exactly where I want to go, and I wouldn't be here if it weren't for Beachbody's obsession with Personal Development ;)

My Turbo Kick Progress

Wohoo! its the only way to describe my Turbo Kick progress.  As you may or may not know I got Turbo certified on August 28th.  I got my "pass" on the written and practical test last week!  But I haven't been idle about it! I've been practicing my round 44 more or less everyday...at least at a minimum of 15min a day...its just has become part of my regular workout routine.  Also last Friday I got the notes of the presenter from the practical test  And on all of the sections only 1 correction was made...either need to keep my shoulders back or add power!  So now I know what to fix and work too!

I did video taped myself about 2 weeks ago, doing the Turbo warm up.  That's how I tackled learning my.  I'm taking one section at a time.  I have the punches,kicks, punches & kicks choreography down!  Right now I am learning the Turbo section...and I do believe that after I practice tonight I'll be able to tick that off and move unto the Recovery section!  Turbo its just so much fun, and I really do think that I'm in my element!  I still need to video tape myself on the sections that I believe I have mastered so that I can critique myself, I think I'll do that tonight.  But for now I leave you with the very first time I video taped myself with the warmup....



ohh I am also working with local TK instructors, they are showing me all kinds of tricks and tips....Its just been so much fun, and really TK is like therapy for me, I've been swamped with so many things lately, that the time I take to do TK practice is really "ME" time, not even my normal workout time...that is just something that I have to do...TK is all about having fun and enjoying myself ;)

Brown Bag Challenge - Going Strong

Hi Friends,

Yes! I am still doing the brown bag challenge! In case you missed this, I am participating on Healthy Eats Brown Bag Challenge, which basically is bring your lunch everyday and make it healthy. I've been able to stick with it! couple of times I have done PB&J.   The other day I made Enfrijoladas for dinner, and I decided since I was already making them to make extra for my lunch, and it worked out perfectly!

Now what are Enfrijoladas you say? Basically they are like Enchiladas, except they are made with a Bean Sauce rather than Red Chile Sauce.  Basically I cooked a pot of pinto beans, blended them to make a sauce, put some mozarrella chese, I didn't have any Queso Fresco.

I didn't fry the tortilla, it just warmed it self in the Bean Sauce...the bean sauce its creamy, when you just blended no need to add cream or milk.







Then you just roll the tortilla, I did just add cheese, you can also add onion, or chicken.

Then you can top it off with cheese...as I said I used mozarella, tasty and easy, and your getting all that protein from the beans! I used pinto beans, but I wonder what it would taste with black beans and cumin..mmm....

Brown Bag Challenge Day 8

Well During the Month of September, I am sticking to the Brown-bag challenge set up by Healthy Eats! The point of the challenge is to bring your lunch to work and keep it healthy! Now although I am pretty good at bringing my lunch and snacks to work, the challenge here is to bring more things that are unprocessed, and be creative in the kitchen.  Something that is not my "forte" at all.   But I am sticking to the challenge.  My lunches have not been anything spectacular yet, but what I am loving about this challenge, is all the ideas I am getting from my fellow brown-bag challengers!   Love their recipes, and alternatives, and ideas.  So my creativity is expanding and can't wait to start putting into practice some the new things that I am learning!

So today, for lunch I stuck to my "regular" mixed green salad with red bell pepper, broccoli, tomatoe, hard boiled egg, turkey, BUT I added some dried cranberries! I let myself down by not making my own dressing, this was just an oversight on my part, because I do have lemons, and vinegar at home that I could have easily done one, but because this is not part of my regular routine, it just skipped my mind.  I need to make sticky notes around my kitchen!

The good news is that after this salad, I no longer have greens at home to continue the salad theme, which will force me to get creative tonight for tomorrow and avoid reaching for the canned Campbell Harvest Select Canned Soup!

if you haven't join the challenge, join us! is super fun, follow us on twitter too with the #brownbag tag :)Make it an awesome week peeps!

P90X2 is here!

Well, the moment that we were waiting for! (or at least I was waiting for) P90X2 IS IN THE HOUSE! pre-orders start today through your teambeachbody account!  If you don't have a coach and want a coach, pick me!


The benefits of pre-ordering through me (teambeachbody account) are the following:

1. FREE shipping for the product ($45.00 savings!)
2. FREE workouts from Tony's One On One trainings
3. You will also be entered to win weekly prizes by being on the pre-order list.  The earlier you place the order; the more weeks you qualify for the prizes. 
4. Grand prize winner gets their product delivered to their doorstep by Mr. Tony Horton, himself  
5. Precaution: Pre-order inventory will sell out, so if you want start P90X2 first thing 2012 I encourage you to pre-order as early as possible

So now that you know why you need to pre-order NOW please note that your credit card will not be charged until the item ships which will be in the 1st weeks of December, you'll get your program by 12/25/11 if you order before 9/5/11...so lets move on into the inside look of P90X2!  


What is P90X2?

• Its a 90 day cutting edge fitness program that takes P90X Muscle Confusion (TM) to a new level, focusing on strength, balance mobility and explosive power!
• Its also the most modern thinking in actuality in sport medicine with P.A.P (Post Activation Potentation) Training

How does it work?

• 5 days a weeks as opposed to 6 days a week.  Has 1 day of active recovery.
• Its an evolution to P90X and learning from from it as well as learning from Insanity and Turbo Fire and just take it to a different level! You will be doing push ups on medicine balls ;)
• It focuses on functionality, mobility, flexibility and advance stretching for athletes so that you can push yourself harder without hurting yourself.

The Program Training Phases

Phase I 

Its the Foundation and its 3-5 weeks.  It gets your body ready to tackle phase 2.  During this phase you'll see improvements and move better, you'll feel better and will less likely to get injured.

Phase 2 

In the next 3-6 weeks your will be focusing on Strength.  You'll get stronger through a wider range of motion, you'll get more supple, you'll look good. 

Phase 3

In the last 3-4 weeks you will be focusing on Performance.  You'll jump higher (yes even higher than in Insanity!) run faster, be more explosive, and even have a kid quality bounce to your step :)

Can I do this?

• P90X2 is for people who are in shape, not for a person that hasn't exercised. 
•  Its for Power 90 and P90X grads.  
• Graduates of other "Extreme" programs like Insanity, Asylum, Turbo Fire and Chalean Extreme
• Athletes looking to improve performance
• Former athletes wanting to get back in shape

How does it differ from P90X, Insanity and The Asylum?

• Brand new jokes! (LOL) but seriously...
• The three training phases cover more physiological ground 
• P90X2 is more compartmentalized, more focused, more targeted
• P90X2 is training for sport
• Diet Plan is more versatile with vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options

How is it Unique? where else do you get functional training, strength training, plyometrics and post-activation potentiation in one program!

The Workouts!

1. How to Bring IT Again 
2. X2 Core
3. Plyocide (Don't you just LOVE this name?!)
4. X2 Recovery + Mobility
5. X2 Total Body
6. X2 Yoga (Wohoo! back to basics and its only 63min long!)
7. X2 Balance + Power
8. Check + Back + Balance 
9. X2 Shoulders + Arms
10. Base + Back
11. P.A.P. Lower
12. P.A.P. Upper
13. X2 Ab Ripper
14. V Sculpt * - only available with Deluxe and Ultimate Kit
15. X2 Chest + Shoulders + Tris * - Only available with Deluxe and Ultimate Kit

KIT Prices

Base Kit: $119.85 

Base Kit on Blue Ray $149.85

You get DVD's from 1-13, Fitness Guides, Nutrition Guide

Deluxe Kit

DVD - $239.70 you get the base kit plus the 2 advance workouts, stability ball, 2 medicine balls, and a foam roller.  If you go for the Blue Ray the price is $299.70

Ultimate Kit:

DVD $299.55 get get everything on the base kit, deluxe kit plus some extra tools like the power stands! - if you go for Blue ray the cost is $359.55

Note: With Variations you can do P90X2 with nothing but your body body and some exercise bands!

its Time to Bring IT....AGAIN!

Turbo Kick Certification! - Did I pass?

Hello Friends,

Well this Sunday I went to East Palo Alto's YMCA facility off of University Ave on Bell St to get myself some Turbo Kick Certification.  I went with my good friend and fellow beachbody coach Denise Romero.  We left Hayward around 8:15 and made good time.  We arrived around 8:40'ish.  We got there, signed in, got our packet, and started talking to the other people!  Some were already instructors with other formats and wanted to add Turbo Kick to their repertoire.  It was a long day! But a fun filled one!


Our presenter was Doris Estremera, which I must say was an excellent presenter. Made us feel relax and comfortable, and even though she was a bit pregnant she still brought it when it came to delivering the actual workout.  She kept saying, "I am not going to go all out because its not good for me to over do it" but man! she brought it! her energy and intensity was phenomenal! (can you tell Chalene's vocabulary is rubbing off on me?) I can only imagine her going all out when she is not pregnant :)  anyway our day started like this:

1. Lecture
2.  Went over form and Technique with the 4 basic punches and Kicks
3.  Worked on our own punches and kicks - the ones we felt we needed more practice and Doris would walk around giving us some pointers.  
4.  We then went for the actual workout! we did Round 44, and its the round that came with our registration.  It was a great workout! and I've never done an actual Turbo Kick workout.  I've done Turbo Jam and Turbo Fire in the comfort of my own home...and Turbo Fire at the Beachbody summit, but never an actual Turbo Kick.  It was totally amazing, I kept screaming and saying "YEAH" Doris called my name "hey Carmen how are you doing back there" and I was like "GOOOOOOD" in a what I think was a deep tone of pitch, at least I think it was low and deep, LOL that was the intention anyway...
5. Break for lunch and to purchase some Turbo Wear.  I got myself a waffle short, and 2 tanks that read "Turbo Saved Me" in Red and "Turbo Everyday" in Hot Pink.  For lunch we just had a peach, string cheese, and a granola bar and yes 1 little brownie. 
6.  Lecture, went over our study guide, broke down the Turbo Sections, and divided up into groups to learn a specific section.  We each got to lead in our little group, then got to actually lead in the class.   That was a great experience.
7. Practical Test - she went one by one (in rows) and evaluated our form and technique for each of the basic punches and kicks - now that was nerve racking.  And I was tired from the day, and actually sore too.  But I gave it my all, I wanted to prove that I've listened to Chalene when she says keep your shoulders up, pivot to protect the knees, and I think I did not "scoop" in my punches and effectively demonstrated the push side kick vs a roundhouse kick.
8.  Written Test


Then we got to go home, I was exhausted! but felt very proud of myself, it was a great day!  But what made the whole day special, is that I got home and the kids were like "how did it go?" and Angel was also very interested, it is great to have their support in my journey :)
 And now to wait for 2-4 weeks to get my results!

Chalean Extreme - Lean Circuit 3 - week 1

My goal this morning was to wake up at 5am to go and push play.  I didn't push play until 6:05, now I did wake up at 5am,  but just laid there staring at the ceiling.  I started to feel sorry about myself.  Lots of things going on in my mind, and the thing is that most of the things that I was mulling over where things I have no control over.   I wish I could help, I wish I can turn things around for other people, but seriously I can't.  I can only control what I do, I can only change things for myself for the better.  I will help out family members when I have the ability to do so, in this instant, in this particular moment, I just can't.  And it was killing me that I can't, and its not a good feeling.  Anyway I laid there for an hour thinking and thinking and feeling guilty.   BUT then I stopped myself.  I can't feel guilt over a situation that I didn't make for myself, in fact when asked for my opinion, I gave a total different advice from what was decided....anyway I am starting on a soap drama again.  So as I laid there, letting guilt consume me, I said to myself STOP!  You know if you could help you would do so without giving it a second thought, just because you can't help RIGHT NOW, doesn't mean you won't be able to help in a month or so.  So then I realized, instead of laying here feeling guilty you could of been done with your workout like 20min ago and had lunches already prepared.  So I got up renewed, and letting go of my guilt I  Pushed play.  I  felt rejuvenated! Chalene gives a great workout, and Lean Circuit 3 is just awesome.  It works my chest muscles like no other (not even P90X) and I know I will be sore.  After the workout while preparing my recovery drink my arms were shaking!  LOVE IT!  I totally exhausted my muscle tissue, I kept telling myself "ooohhh I can feel my muscles repairing themselves" LOL

So my tip for today is: when life is happening to you, when there are problems, its okay to feel a bit sorry for yourself, but don't get stuck in that rut.  Shake it off, and blow of some steam with a killer workout, when your done, you'll be amazed as to how you feel not just physically but from within.  Lets get stronger in more ways than one :)

Chalean Extremen - Lean Circuit 2 - Week 1

Hi guys!

Well yesterday I did Lean Circuit 2 - and it was shoulders, back and legs.  My shoulders are my weakest area, but even then just lifting at 10lbs for my shoulder exercise, I failed by the 11th or 12th rep.  At the end I did my last shoulder exercise with 8lbs dumbbells.  Yeah, not that heavy, but boy did I feel it!  This morning I have burn intervals, and I want to follow that with HiiT 15.

I'll be staying home today because Ximena is sick.  Not sure if its a bug or something, but her tummy is not feeling that well, so after crushing my workout, I'll call the doctors office and see if they can see her today. I just want to make sure its not an infection.  The poor kid hasn't been able to really enjoy her 1st week of school, and she was so excited about it too.

Another to report is that yesterday was the 10th day, and final day of my shakeology fat blaster cleanse.  I did fairly good! I did falter a bit there at the end, especially with my husband's birthday yesterday, but overall I feel good.   I ate pretty clean, lots of veggies, plus all the good stuff on Shakeology.   Final weight 136.8 - I am pretty excited about that!

So here I go to start my day! Hope you guys have a good one :)

Chalean Extreme - Lean Phase

This week I start on the Lean Phase from Chalean Extreme.  I had totally forgotten that this is a great phase!  I did Lean Circuit 1 yesterday, biceps, triceps and legs.  Chalene has you do lower body and arms at the same time really working your core and balance.  During the workout I could feel my core and legs working, and today my arms are totally feeling it!  I didn't go as heavy, I was only doing 15lbs and 12lbs but even then my body feels trampled on! I LOVE IT!   The plan this morning is a HiiT I am thinking Turbo HiiT 25 at first, but I may go with HiiT 15 followed by a stretch workout, my body needs it.

Today I am at home from work,  I could do a longer workout, but I am home with my 2 youngest boys.   We dropped of their sister at kindergarten this morning, so from now until 12pm its just us, then we leave to pick her up at 12:35pm so I want to spend some time with them this morning.  I am thinking going to take them to park and have them riding the little train.

So my 2 cents for today - take care of your health so that you can joy in spending time with your family, because your family is awesome and they deserve to have you around for a long tim3 ;)

10 Day Shakeology Fat Blast! - Day 5

Hello my friends!

Today is Day 5 of my 10 Day Shakeology Fat Blast!   If you are unfamiliar with Shakeology click here   The purpose of the cleanse is to give you a jump start with your weigh loss and get your metabolism going as you are eating every 2 hours.  Shakeology with all this vitamins, preobiotics, antioxidants, protein...(well its pretty much packed with 70+ nutrients and its processed accordingly to help your body absorb all of it ;) will not only help you give you that edge, but I've noticed that the quality of my workouts have improved!  All of a sudden I have that "spunk" again and I am making my moves bigger and I am jumping more doing my Turbo Workouts.

Today is the start of Day 5, I am down to 2 shakes a day, and I am adding whole grains, which I like because I was missing my oatmeal!  As mentioned I am feeling good and not "weighed down" - have you had that feeling?  the first 2 days I did feel bloated, but it was all that Fiber, drinking extra water helped to remove all that excess toxins.

If you would like to know more about shakeology, how it can help you contact me, and if you are seriously considering purchasing it and would like a sample, well I need to be your coach, so if you don't have a beach body coach already, sign up for free here

Below are some Videos of Day 1 and Day 3 :)

Mission Accomplished! - 10k is in the bag

Hello Friends!
So this past Saturday I accomplished what I set out to do and I started and finish my first 10k!  I did the Big Gay 10k in San Francisco! and as you might of guessed, they did encourage to wear a costume! I went as Mexico


Me as Mexico

I went to the event with my friend Annette and her friend (my new friend ;) Melissa! we also met our co-worker April.

Middle of my 10k

So I did the run! Now I am not going to lie, it was tough! mentally and physically.  But it was extremely fun!   You can't go wrong with an event where people are genuinely fun and caring, and know how to throw a party! (BIG GAY 10K!) Was I flashy, and social like I imagine I would be? well No....but hey, I accomplished something way outside my comfort zone!

Lesson Learned: I NEED TO INVEST IN GOOD RUNNING SHOES! and only use them for running.   My regular cross trainer shoes just did not cut it. 

Lesson Learned: Need to increase my training miles, I do need to have longer runs at least 1x a week!  Which  means  I need to get up earlier...5am early.  I am not a morning person.  But I am committing to this.  So San Jose RNR - here I come!

my first 10k!

Well friends, its almost here! The Big Gay 10k! and its my first 10k! nervous? yes! excited? YES! I haven't been training as hard as I would like to...in terms of increasing my endurance and miles.  But I am determined!
I am hoping to get real life experience and figure out how I can improve for next time.

I definitively have the pre-run jitters! I can't stop thinking about it....all of a sudden doubts are flooding my brain and I still need to come up with my costume! I am going as Mexico :)  anyway, I am nervous, I want to make sure I get to San Francisco with plenty of time to check in and get my bib number.  I could pick it up earlier but I don't like to drive into San Francisco, I panic, all those hills make me nervous, especially when I get stuck in a red light going up hill, that little rock backwards when you put your car into 1st gear to continue moving, drives me nut! LOL - I am digressing anyway, my BIG GAY 10K is coming up! Wohoo! okay, SO this is run by San Francisco Aids Foundation, and even though I haven't been actively fundraising, if you wish donate, no amount is small!, you may do so here

Wish me luck! and pester me about my costume, I need to get that done!