Some Tips For Your 30 Day Shred Journey

So I've been doing Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred for two weeks now.  Friends, it has been the hardest workout that I've ever done, but I'm so proud of myself for sticking with it thus far.  In an effort to make it easier for those of you who may decide to join the shred family, I put together a few tips: 

•  Take Your Measurements and a Before Pic - I'm so glad that I decided to do this and not just rely on the scale.  For me (and for most shredders out there), I'm seeing more change in inches as opposed to pounds.  I've actually gained a pound since beginning, but I've lost 5 inches throughout my body in just two weeks.  And mamas, those of you who are still battling the post pregnancy bulge, you'll be excited to know that the biggest change so far has been in my waist line *squeal!*

•  Take One Day Off - Jillian recommends doing the work out 7 days a week since it's only 25 minutes, but as a beginner, I felt that if I didn't get one day to relax and prepare for the next week of exercising, I'd give up.  So a rest day was imperative for me. I've seen results already, even with the rest day, so rest away!

• Low Carb It on Your Day Off - In order to stay on track on my off day, I decided to consume tons of protein, and only about 50 grams of carbs.  That way, I can boost my weight loss potential on the day that I'm not burning the extra calories.  The 50 grams of carbs should be from fruits/vegetables and/or whole wheat bread.  (For the rest of the week, it makes complete sense to take in a regular amount of carbs because that is what gives you energy to work out.)   

•  Switch Levels Every 10 Days - The workout comes with 3 levels.  I didn't know when I was supposed to change to the next level, but after researching what other shredders do, it seems to be the general concensus that changing levels every 10 days is the best idea. It gives you enough time to master the level you're on before moving up.  Of course if you're still not ready to move up after the 10 days, then stick with the level you're on. 

•  You May Gain Weight Initially - Let me tell you, I was extremely upset after seeing that I gained a pound after all my hard work over the past two weeks.  Yes, I may have had some minor set backs with my eating here and there, but for the most part I stuck to my 1500 calories per day and 6 day a week workouts.  After boo hoo-ing about it for an hour or two (or five), I decided to research a bit. I found that many shredders gain a little weight during the first 2 levels, and start to see the pounds melt away during level 3.  This weight gain phenomena actually happens to most people who begin a new workout regimen.  When working out, you retain water a lot more than if you were sedentary.  This is because the water is being sent directly to your muscles to protect them while they're growing and changing.  Your body regulates after 2-3 weeks of consistent exercise.  That's when your weight starts to drop.  So don't pay attention to the scale for the first few weeks.  Focus on inches and the mirror.

• Use Heavier Weights Next Time Around - Jillian's 30 Day Shred is awesome, but it's..well.. it's just 30 days.  And if you have a ton of weight to shred off *raises hand*, then you might want to redo the cycle.  So after my first 30 days, I plan on taking a two day rest, then going right into the second cycle, but this time using 5 lb weights instead of my current 3 lbs. 

So stay tuned, folks!  In about two weeks, I'll be done with my first cycle of 30 Day Shred, and as promised, I will post my Before and After pics for ALL TO SEE! *shriek!* *passes out* See you then!