Today is the first of a new series I have been wanting to start called “Wellness Wednesday.” This blog has always incorporated aspects of healthy living, but I thought this new series would be a great opportunity to incorporate it with an increased frequency. I’m thinking of including mini workouts, ideas on self-care, as well as recipes and meal plans. If there is anything in particular you would like to see, please let me know and I will make every attempt to include it!
With all that being said, I thought I would kickoff the series with a review of a few fitness videos that have been on serious rotation as of late. Before Harper came along, my fitness regime was exclusively a run outside, a studio class, or the gym. Since though, I’ve found it so much easier to pop in a video… given recent time constraints and convenience. Yet, I have always been skeptical of videos. My main reservation? How effective can a workout video really be? So, I decided to try a few out and give it a go. After doing each of these videos once, my muscles were sore in places they hadn’t been in a while (I guess that’s what a 6 week hiatus will do to you…). I opted for a combination of HIIT and more joint friendly versions, including two power yoga videos. As I write this, I am realizing that most of these videos are by Jillian Michales…. so in an honest self-diclosure, I used to love Biggest Loser (#guiltyindulgence). I also find her to be very motivating, while at the same time challenging you to really understand what your motivation is for getting fit. I feel as if I know why I am doing a workout, then I am more likely to stick with it… so in that light, I want to feel empowered to take charge of my fitness at any point in my life… and if it’s with a video and an at home workout right now, then so be it!
{Outfit Details || Top: Free People | Leggings: Alo | Sports Bra: c/o Anthropologie | Shoes: c/o Anthropologie (available here) | Stroller: Bob}
1. Tracy Anderson Method: Post Pregnancy: I used Tracy Anderson’s Pregnancy Project video throughout my entire pregnancy and loved it. So, it was only natural that I decided to try out one of her post-pregnancy videos. I really like that she is sensitive to the post-pregnancy body… and encouraging at the same time. She is open and honest about her weight gain and provides logic as to why each move is important. The majority of the video focuses on strengthening the core (amen!) and then there are several moves to target the glutes and legs, as well as the arms. It is easy on the joints and I definitely feel like I got a good workout in when I am finished. My only con is that it doesn’t necessarily increase my heart rate, which is something I always like from my workouts. approximately 38 minutes
2. Jillian Michaels Yoga Inferno: I was an avid user of this video pre-pregnancy, so once I was cleared to workout again I couldn’t wait to return to this power yoga series. The DVD has two different power yoga workouts. One utilizes body resistance and the other incorporates weights (3-5lbs). Both offer an advanced and beginner level, and I find both videos to be challenging as they throw in moves to get your heart rate up, since it is more of a yoga fusion. Cardio intervals include mountain climbers, plank jacks, and jumping lunges (yes, I know, not very yoga-esq). I can never decide which video I like better… the body resistant one or the weights version… because each time I go back to the other I fall in love with it again. If you are an avid yoga participant simply beware that this is not a traditional form of practice. Other than that I don’t really have any complaints! approximately 30 minutes each
3. Jillian Michaels 30-Day Shred: Alright, so the name is what roped me in here. 30-days…. to be shredded?? Sign me up please (especially since I’ll be forced into a bathing suit come May…)!! This workout is for sure one that will get your heart rate up and moving. There are three videos, each 20 minutes long. There is a short warm-up, followed by 3 minutes of weight training, 2 minutes of intense cardio, and 1 minute of ab work. There are 3 circuits in each video… and believe me, if you don’t rest, it’s a workout! It is divided into three different levels and meant to progress from level 1-level 3 based on your fitness aptitude. My favorites are level 2 and level 3…. and some days I do both levels. approximately 20 minutes each
4. Jillian Michaels Yoga Meltdown: This is another video I found pre-pregnancy. I was actually in Switzerland and was craving some sort of healthy activity (that was one indulgent trip…). I found this on youtube and loved the video. It utilizes all body resistance, but I love the flow and sequence. approximately 35 minutes
That’s it! I just purchased a 3 month membership to try out Bikini Body Guide… anyone else done this?? I’ll share my experience along the way!!
