This past week has been crazy with lots of cookouts, big breakfasts and even a dessert party! I would say this would typically be a horrible time to change eating habits but I tried to look at it differently this week. Instead of getting stuck on avoiding everything I instead watched my portions and with being so busy I knew I was burning more calories than usual. I’m happy to report that I’ve maintained my weight and look forward to hitting things hard again next week when all my guests are gone. (Yes, we have had out of state family in town for more than two weeks!)
I also got a chance to really try out my new Total Gym. My arms currently feel a bit like jello from my workout earlier but I’m loving the feeling after I’m done! My husband has also been enjoying the system and has worked out with it several times. He says it gives him a great and challenging workout!
So what it is like to get started with the Total Gym? Much easier than you might think! It comes in a box that clearly explains that no tools are required. And really, no tools are required!
It is pretty simple but keep in mind that the unit is still pretty heavy. I recommend opening it up wherever you plan to use it to avoid having to haul it around. It does fold up pretty flat and would work great in a closet if you would like to keep it tucked away. We decided to put it in our kids’ playroom which was a finished room in our basement that is large and has a t.v. Perfect!
I’ve just been putting something in front of it and the boys pretty much stay away from it anyway. We haven’t had any issues but I’m going to continue to keep a close eye on that.
The Start It Up DVD includes instructions on how to set up the total gym and change out the accessories so it is a pretty quick process to get started.
Of course if you are like me, you’ll be pausing the video often because you are awkwardly trying to figure out how the instructor can move through everything with such ease. Trust me, the more you work with the machine the easier it gets to transition!
I’ve been doing the starter program simply because it is the perfect length (less than 20 minutes) for a beginner like me and covers all your bases including legs, back, abs and arms. The video included also starts with how to work through the beginner workout and then the workout itself to follow along. I like this feature because it helps me keep proper positions and keeps me at the right pace to keep my heart rate up!
I can already see my weak areas which includes my triceps, inner thigh and core and I actually love anything with my legs and back. I’m looking forward to another week, one in which I’ll hopefully be able to report a pound or two lost and perhaps the workout will get a bit easier.
Don’t forget to check out the five other bloggers who are also challenging themselves to get in shape with the Total Gym!
Virgina from That Bald Chick
Angela of MommyPR
Nina of The One Fantastical
Gina of A Wrestling Addicted Mommy
Zippy of Champagne Living
You can join me in getting fit with the Total Gym system and receive 15% off by using this link!
Disclosure: A Total Gym system was provided through Blog Friendly PR to facilitate this challenge, however no monetary compensation has been received. All thoughts and opinions remain 100% my own and yours may differ.
courtney says
aagh so jealous! what a cool little system! please keep us updated!
Tiffany says
Ooooh – shiny! Looks like it doesn’t take up a ton of room. Smart girl to watch your portions while still being able to maintain weight. I’m horrible with my eating when I’m out of town, have family here, etc. That’s also nice that your Total Gym comes up with a start up DVD, definitely makes sense. Keep up the good work!
Donna B. says
so. very. jealous!! I look forward to reading your posts, I need to get something like this but I’m still not certain what I’m going to invest my $ in.
Jamie says
I understand what you were going through with the portion control-only my new diet is because of breast feeding my son. Restricting myself has been difficult but I know it is all worth it. Hopefully you’ve still kept it up. That way you can still enjoy everything.