April/June 2013

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Reshaped fitness regime

Posted: Sunday, Jul. 15, 2012

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Photo by: Nathan Abplanalp Photography

Sheri Riley is currently seeking a post-graduate degree in Invasive Cardiology. She enjoys sports and spending time outside with her fiance, Jeff, and their two dogs, Lola and Cami. She is getting married October 12, 2013. Contact Sheri here.

I’ve said it before -– everyone is different. Some things for certain people while for others it doesn’t.

That’s being said, I started my weight-loss journey with Insanity but we have now officially broken up. After starting and stopping multiple times, I’ve decided to give the program the boot… for now.

Now, by no means do I think Insanity is a bad workout regime. It solidly kicked my butt every time I did it, and in a few months when I feel like I am in better shape, I fully intend on giving it another go. However, here are a few things that I found myself struggling with that I feel like others who are considering the program should know:

1. Previous injuries/new injuries:

This was the biggest issue for me. I had knee surgery in the past along with a nagging ankle that never seemed to heal that flared up beyond belief after starting the program. The worst part was, because you have to follow the schedule very precisely, my injuries never had any time to get better; only worse. I also think that all of the plyometrics (jumping) being done on carpet (see below) has something to do with a newly pinched nerve in my back because I swear I have had no feeling in three of my fingers on my left hand for the past two months.

2. Floors

We currently live on the third floor of an apartment complex that’s carpeted throughout. At first I thought, okay the neighbors are going to hate us (which they totally do), but the carpet is going to cushion the blow, right? WROOOONG. I think the carpet has actually contributed to my injuries. Don’t think so? Here’s an article I found that explains the negatives to working out on carpet a little bit more.

3. Lack of enthusiasm

For a lot of people (whom I envy), the Insanity program has become addicting. They are super stoked every day to do their workout and keep coming back for more. I, on the other hand, got to the point where I kind of dreaded it –- especially on Pure Cardio days, which is no good. You want to enjoy working out as much as you can. I think this was the final straw where I knew I just wasn’t ready physically or mentally ready to be doing the program.

Again, not here to discourage! Like I said, it really kicked my butt and I can thank it for some of the weight I have lost thus far. I just think everyone should be prepared before they get started! It’s a demanding program and I definitely agree that it works, but for the right kind of person.

So, starting this past week, I’ve decided to change my workout routine. I will continue to get to Flex + Fit at least twice a week (did Dana’s AirCore class the other day. KILLER AMAZING!), and will now focus on training for my half marathon next February. I’m working on completing 2 miles a day for 2-3 weeks and then getting into a serious program that has me running about 15 miles a week progressing into 20-30 miles a week. I will also use my free weights at home for 2-3 days a week of strength training.

New wedding plans? Nada. I better get it together before this bad boy creeps up on us!

World peace and skinny jeans,

Sheri xo

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