shred update.

Ok, so, I'm feeling a little indifferent about 30 Day Shred at the moment...

The Positives:
1. Great work out for it being only 25 minutes (Jillians lies about it being 20, the dvd player tells me differently).
2. You can make the workout as easy or difficult as you want - varying weights/sinking deeper into moves, etc.
3. You don't have to go to the gym to get a workout in; you can work out in the comfort of your own home.
4. Going for runs has gotten a lot easier, I'm not getting winded as quickly and my legs feel a lot stronger.

The Not So Positives:
1. It's only 25 minutes... I know Jillian says it's all you need as long as you don't "phone it in" but in the end, like I said, it's only 25 minutes.
2. Hubs and I have been shredding fairly religiously (there were a few days that were skipped so it'll be more like 40 Day Shred - we've been jogging though, if we don't Shred) but recently I've noticed that the number on the scale keeps rising little by little each week and that I've developed what can only be described as a tummy pooch. Like I've said before - I've never been stick skinny but I've never been overweight and my stomach has always been somewhat flat (though not toned). The ab exercises have caused me to gain muscle under the fat on my stomach, causing me to have some strange bulges and pooches here and there... definitely not a fan.

Conclusion: Shredding = not enough cardio = muscle gain but no weight loss = higher number on the scale = tears.

So, I'm indifferent. I'm more than upset that my weight is climbing and I'm not noticing a huge difference in how my clothes fit, and I'm not pleased about the muscle bugles, but running has gotten a lot easier and I can feel my muscles getting toner.

I'm at a loss. I tried Jillians Metabolism Booster (50 minute workout) in addition to the 25 minute workout (boy does that kick your ass) and this morning I lost one whole pound! (note the sarcasm) I guess I'll continue with the workouts, especially as it gets colder and especially because I don't plan on shoveling out money to join a gym.

It was worth a shot... I think I'd still recommend it, but only as a supplemental workout to a higher intensity cardio workout. You do feel pretty good after the workout, and at least it's something for those who don't have a lot of time after/before work for an hour or two hour workout.

I think I'll keep you around a bit longer Jillian. Let's just lose the stomach pooches, please.