Exercise! - Kathy Smith Project: YOU

Has anyone here tried this? It's a new, 9 video series - 12 week program.

Kathy Smith's Project: YOU (http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=b8qrFAgZEE0&offerid=36669.10000108&type=3&subid=0)

Looks interesting!

Edited for explanation:

Project: YOU is a 9 video series to give you a total body workout during a 12 week program. This includes 3 levels of cardio, an upper body workout, a lower body workout, and a more advanced total body workout. Also included is a yoga workout and Pilates workout.

A 12 week calendar is given to you so you will always know what exercises to do on which days. You pick the day you want to start, and the calendar does the rest. This program will build you up from any fitness level that you may be at. Kathy Smith is great for giving you a challenge, but allowing you to back off where you need to in order to keep up with the program.

The program also inludes a balanced eating plan (optional). It is basically a reduced calorie plan that does not radically restrict any type of food. You can read more about the program at 3FC (http://www.3fatchicks.com/fitness/kathy-smith-project-you.php) , or you can read my journal, linked below.

I belong to Kathy's bulletin board on iVillage, get her email newsletter, etc. I haven't purchased Project:YOU but I know she's been working on it quite a while and she is VERY excited about it. I even had a chance to talk to her about it back this summer and she really has the right idea about what it takes to have a well-rounded, reasonable, no-hype program. I know that some of the other board members have it already -- you might pop on there and see what they're saying. The URL is http://messageboards.ivillage.com/iv-fbkathysmith.

Thanks! I read the forums at the beachbody site, but it didn't really tell me a lot. This one helped a bit more. I'm wondering if this is any different from taking the Cardio Fat Burn videos and alternating with Lift Weights To Lose Weight. It's fresher material, of course! She's also got Yoga and Pilates in there, so maybe it is more varied through the week. Do you know if on PY, do you alternate videos every day, or do you do multiples some days? (I think I'll just buy it and satisfy my curiosity)

Ok here is what I found, clipped from posts :

For the first 5 weeks:

Mon: Cardio 30 min., lower body weights 30 min.

Tues: Cardio 30 min., upper body weights 30 min.

Wed: Pilates 20 min, Yoga 20 min.

Thurs: Cardio 30 min., lower body weights 30 min.

Fri: Cardio 30 min., upper body weights 30 min.

Sat: Choice day

The 6th week is a recovery week. During that week you are doing Core Flex 3 times and 3 "choice" cardio workouts.

After week 7 the strength training gets bumped up:

Weeks 7- 12 we do Full Body Circuit 3 times a week (Days 1, 3 & 5), 2 other pure cardios during the week (one is a choice workout- Days 2 & 6), and 1 Core Flex (on Day 4).

For the specific videos, it works like this:

Week 1 workouts are Foundation Upper Body/Abs, Lower Body/Abs, Pilates Core /Yoga Flex and 'choice'
Week 2-5 as above but Foundation is replaced with Power Push (30 min w/intervals)
Week six is 'recovery' week & includes Pilates/Yoga, Long Lean, and Steady Strides [choice]
Week 7-12 workouts are Full Body circuit (60 min), Long Lean (40 mins) Pilates/Yoga and Steady Strides [choice]

Jennifer I'm glad you found the info you wanted! I'd be interested to hear what you think if you buy it and try it out.

I'm buying it, so I'll let you know!

Please do! I like Kathy Smith's videos a lot.

After a very impatient 10 days, it came! I've been reading it for a couple of days, and tonight I will practice on the first workout. Looks really nice so far. It has the complete exercise DVD schedule for the next 12 weeks, and so far it leaves little room for questions! It all makes sense. I'm looking forward to this, and very curious to see what kind of results I get!

Cool, can't wait to get an update when you've had a chance to try it all out.

Hi Jennifer -
I also have ordered Project You, and I'm anxiously awaiting it - is there special equipment? I do have hand weights, but have seen that a fitness ball is also used?

Thanks for any help!

Julie

Hi Julie, you don't need the stability ball, but it is helpful for a few moves. I use it for pushups because my knees are bad. I also put it between my legs for inner thigh work while doing crunches. (You can use a pillow for that) All you need is a mat (if you have hard floors) and a kitchen style chair. I'm really loving the program. Read the guidebook straight away, it will make so much sense of the plan. I have a day by day account going on my journal, also. (which I need to update right now!)

Thanks, Jennifer!

I don't have a stability ball (yet) - so I think I'll just wait and see how I do without it for my first round through.

I like the fact that it's varied and structured. I've been doing a lot of reading about it on the boards at ivillage and beachbody. It's been a week since I ordered and No Word Yet :?: I'm hoping that it gets here by next week because that would put me in a great place in 12 weeks - beginning of June.

I enjoy reading your journal too - thanks for doing it!

It took a little over 2 weeks for mine to arrive, so hopefully yours will be there soon. You can write Beachbody to ask about it. If you do, let me know what kind of answers you get. I asked multiple questions in some mails, but they would only answer the first question in my mail. I wrote back and complained about canned messages, and it was the same guy that got the mail. :faint: Actually, I think they must have only one guy doing email customer service. His name is Kenneth!

Thanks, Jennifer - I finally got an email from BB saying that it had shipped (only one email), but I had sent them one earlier yesterday asking where it was.

Do you check out the BB forum at all?

Julie

Just FYI, Kathy's forum on iVillage is much more active than the forum on BeachBody, although she visits both. The iVillage forum is much older. If you want to check it out, it's at http://messageboards.ivillage.com/iv-fbkathysmith

If you want a quick answer at Beachbody, use their live chat option. I did that when I bought the Yoga Booty Ballet set. The rep was very helpful.

Sherry

Woohoo! Got my project:you today - will start on MONDAY! (Going away for the weekend) Looking forward to seeing some results as I kick up the exercise. . .

Julie

Something really scary happened tonight in lower body workout. The DVD started to stall. I don't know the technical term, but it freeze frames, and squares pop up all over the place. It did it 3 different times, and then the sound and picture weren't totally lined up after that. This is a new DVD player. It started with Project: You. What will I do if the DVD putters out? I don't have a DVD burner to make an emergency back up. I'll try and make a backup video tonight, and hope that it works.

Julie, have fun! I don't know what kind of shape you are in, but if the first cardio exercise is too hard or too easy, you can adjust it by watching the modifiers and following them. It was a little easy for me. I did it most of the week, but I moved to the next level a couple of days early. The middle one is just right for me - well it was, but it seems to be getting harder with time!

Jen, bring it to my house and we'll see if it does the same thing with my dvd player. If so, you should contact them asap for a replacement - within 30 days of receipt.

Jennifer - thanks for your encouragement - I am not exercising now AT ALL - or not very often, so I think I'll start off on the easy side - I'm really thinking that a structured total body plan will help ME stay structured, and I'm hoping for some results pretty fast. . .

About the DVD - did you try another DVD to see if it was the machine? Or do you have a DVD player in your PC to see if the same thing happens?

Julie

is the project you cardio more on the dancey side?

Like real dancing? No, not that I've seen. They did an easy Mambo move (oh boy, I think they said Mambo) for a couple of minutes in the first cardio workout, but that was all. There isn't any dancing in the second one, and I haven't watched the third one.

She introduced one of her back ups as being a former dancer for MC Hammer, and said she loves to dance 'and you'll get to see some of that later' - or something to that effect, but I haven't seen it yet.

The choreography isn't hard, either. I'm not coordinated at all, and I do ok with it. :)

Oh - I tried the dvd on the player we have downstairs, and it didn't happen. It happened today on the upper body workout, and only at the end. I think it might be too much excitement for the DVD player.

ok, I think you ladies have convinced me to give this program a try. I started out with Kathy though I have not done her in a while.

I think you'll be happy with it. There's enough variety in the workouts that the time flies by pretty quickly, and you will get a good workout. I'm sweating more now than I was when I started two weeks ago. I assume it is because I've got better form, and am burning more calories. Today I was sweatier than I've ever been while on the treadmill for an hour.

Jennifer, also wanted to thank you for your journal - it makes the program seem much more real and doable - I did watch the first weeks tapes last Friday, so I'm ready (I think) to do it this week. Blew the dust off my 3 and 5 pound weights. . .

Did you take your measurements when you started?

Julie

Yes, I took my measurements and put them in the book along with my weight. I am going to measure again in 6 weeks and see what happened in the first half. That is the plan, anyway. I might go all the way to the end to see. I wish I had taken pictures.
How about you?

I am not following her food plan, but I am trying to hit the same number of calories. For the most part, I eat in somewhat the same proportions as her plan so I'm probably not too far off. I've made the mistake of eyeballing my food for the last 2 weeks. When I entered food into Fitday yesterday, I realized I have probably been eating more than I thought. My number one diet goof is not counting what I eat. It sure looks like less food on my plate when I'm hungry.

About the food plan, did you read about the misprints? Here they are, for you or anybody else that might be reading:

Page 31 should say "TWO PRODUCE' instead of 'ONE FRUIT AND ONE VEGETABLE'. Also, in the nutrition guide it says 2 1/2 cups of low-fat cheese are allowed. It should be 2 1/2 ounces of low-fat cheese. I found this on the beachbody.com website. As far as I know, these are the only corrections. I read that before I ordered the dvd's. I thought maybe beachbody would have included the correction sheet with new orders, but it did not.

Jennifer -
I reaquainted myself with my sweat glands yesterday and several muscles that I forgot that I had. I had to march in place a few times in the second half of the cardio, and couldn't do all the reps in the lower body - but I at least did 1 or 2 of each. I think I may do the foundation tape for over a week until I learn the moves - since it seems that the power push is based on it.

I didn't take my measurements yesterday - I'm going to try to remember today. I'm following the LAWL diet which is also a portion control varied diet and since I've paid for it, I think I'll continue to follow it.

I did see the guide correction in the beachbody site.

Julie

Power Push isn't much harder, but there is a difference. The end of PP has a lot of intensity, and I have to walk in place for some of it. I'm glad though, because that means I'm getting a challenge. I'd rather have something to work towards than hold me back.

Have you done strength training yet? I am the worlds worst at push ups. I am using a stability ball for them and it is a lot easier.

Jennifer - I feel like I must look like I'm just moving my arms and shaking my legs toward the end of Foundation - so for the next two times this week I'm going to try to get the legs right - if I have to do week one a second week - I think that's okay. And it is definately still a challenge to me.

I have done both the upper and lower tapes - the tricep dips on the end of the chair are KILLER - (I can't modify it by dipping lower weight since the weight is ME). And today my abs are a little painful, but not unbearable.

Today I get to try the yoga/pilates - and we'll see how that goes. I have never done either!

Beverly, I did want to comment - if you have other Kathy Smith tapes, there is a post on her boards at beachbody about how to mix up other cardio and strength to get a similar workout. It's by someone named Kit'ara.

Julie

This is the bb thread about mixing up the workouts -

http://forums.beachbody.com/eve/ubb.x/a/tpc/f/345100071/m/875101214

Ah yeah I read that thread. I think one of the tapes she is talking about is really old? Or maybe I just never happened to come across it.

I figured if something happened to one of my dvd's (it's working fine now, I think it was the cold temp in the attic) I'd try something like what she posted, but instead with Kathy's kickboxing and/or fat burning workout for the cardio, and Lift Weights To Lose Weight for the strength training.

Julie, I can't finish rapid fire triceps, either. I was disappointed in myself, but then I realized I weigh more than anybody on that video, and they probably couldn't rapid fire by butt either. :D I'm trying to just improve on the hard parts by one at a time.

Jennifer

Did the Pilates and Yoga yesterday - I really like that it's a break from the cardio/strength - I'm looking foward to those today.

I've never done Pilates or Yoga, and am dismayed at how inflexible I am. Guess it's good to know that! And since my abs are so out of shape (and they've gotten some work on the upper and lower tapes) I could only do one or two of some of the pilates moves last night. Another way I can track my progress by the end of the 12 weeks - I'll be able to do the tricep dips AND some of those pilates moves!

I realized that one of the things I'm stumbling over in the cardio is the kick-boxing, since I've never done that before, so the combination of the foot work and the punching is confusing.

What are you doing for your choice day?
Julie

Oh Julie, I'm awful at Pilates and Yoga. Worse at Pilates. I would like to buy a sticky mat before my next session. I think it might help because sometimes I'm sliding around all over the carpet.

I'm doing Power Push for choice day. I think I may get on the treadmill for the next one, though. I guess I'll just move around to various things each week.

You'll get used to the kickboxing. I did her kickboxing DVD in the past, so I was used to the moves. All of the kickboxing moves in this were in her past one. They do it again in the Power Push workout. I think it is for 7 minutes. Maybe it will help you to rewind that section and practice it on choice day. I've found the more coordinated I get, the higher my heart rate goes and the more I get from the workout. The kickboxing is easy once you get the rhythm down. After you do it a few times it will suddenly kick in, and you'll be doing it blindfolded!

I have skipped my last 2 days of exercise. I have really bad allergies right now. I've been sore, dizzy, achy, cold, tired and wimpy. My doctor changed me to a different allergy medicine, so we'll see. I'm feeling almost normal tonight, so I should be able to get back to it tomorrow without passing out. ;)

Oh, Jennifer, I feel for you - this is the time when everything starts blooming. . .I really hope the new medication works.

I didn't have time for the upper body yesterday so I'm going to add it to 1/2 hour of cardio today - I think I'll try the steady strides, too.

It is so true that the better I get at the moves the more I sweat! Less fumbling I think. Also, my feet did slide in the yoga! Also, thanks for the idea of replaying the kickboxing segment to practice. I do remember some of the other sequences - like the lunge sequence from one of her earlier videos, so they are a little easier for me to get the hang of.

I think I'll review the power push tomorrow - if I still need a couple of days of Foundation - if I'm still sweating (and fumbling), it's still okay.

Julie

I haven't done P:U yet, but I wanted to interject that I've been doing yoga for about a year now. I marched into that first class and told the instructor I was the most inflexible person on earth, had bad knees, and of course it was obvious that I was still about 60 pounds overweight. I sort of dared her to make it doable for me. And guess what? IT WAS, and I haven't looked back. I've reaped so many benefits from that class, not only physically but mentally. DO stick with it and learn from it. It has informed my post-weights and post-cardio stretching, it has helped with the way I carry myself during the day, and my seated forward reach has increased THREE INCHES. I'm still more hamstrung than other people in class, there are still things my knees won't let me do, etc. But, it's amazing how much I enjoy class and how much I've gotten out of it.

And yes, you DEFINITELY need a sticky mat! A great source is Gaiam -- http://www.gaiam.com/retail/category.asp?catalog%5Fname=gai&category%5Fname=l2%5FYogaTools&Page=1. In addition to the mat, you might look at getting this video: http://www.gaiam.com/retail/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=gai&category%5Fname=l3%5FBeginnersYoga&product%5Fid=91%2D0167+MSTR. You might find your practice more rewarding by using props, and this video can explain how to use them in various poses.

Funniegirl - thanks for the encouragement on the yoga and pilates - I had just about decided on the sticky mat as my feet were sliding backwards during one of the poses. I can already feel some improvement after just one week on PY - my breathing seems to be deeper (if that makes any sense), I'm sitting up straighter, and my balance is better. Maybe all this just means I'm more aware of my physical self???

Are you considering Project:You?
Julie

Hi,

For all of you who start yoga OR pilates - make sure you have sticky mat. It is not so much a convenience, but it is a safety issue. Also, make sure that if you have problems sitting cross legged - blanket under your sitting bones (elevating your hips) will help reduce tension. I do yoga for about 6 years now, and I am teaching classes for about 2 years and I've seen so many improvements in overweight people. One of my students is (i guess) in her 350-ties and she still can modify some postures accordingly.

Yoga clears your mind and soul - I always end my class with words - "close your eyes, imagine your favourite picture in front of you, look into details of this picture. Now ask yourself how you feel - if you feel good - take this feeling with you and leave all stress and tension in this room" - talk to yourself when you finish your practise - you will find such a mood improvemnts!

I recently discovered Pilates - Windsor pilates tapes - even though the workout is way to short, it is a good exercise!

Good luck,
Sandy.

Sandy - that was one question I had - I can use the same mat for both yoga and pilates, right? (I'm a little embarrassed for having to ask ...)

Julie

Julie, one of the biggest benefits of yoga is that it DOES improve your mind/body connection. That's true for anyone, but overweight or otherwise out-of-shape people need to reconnect the MOST. It's made a huge difference in how I think about my body, and in the way I approach all types of movement, fitness, etc.

I am considering P:U because I love Kathy so much and I have such confidence in her routines. However, I belong to a fitness center and have been on a kick of going consistently, so I don't feel a need to change anything right now. But, I'm thinkin' about it.

Funniegirl - I am thinking that exercise alone gives me a greater appreciation and mind/body connection.

However, I am bummed - since I couldn't get my sculpting tapes to work after I had done the cardio - I think the cardio may have overheated the VCR!

I really like this as it's a complete program - I think that after I finish the initial 12 weeks I may start the second half again after a rest week. (I am going to be traveling this summer, which will make regular exercise a challenge!)

Julie

Julie, one of the biggest benefits of yoga is that it DOES improve your mind/body connection. That's true for anyone, but overweight or otherwise out-of-shape people need to reconnect the MOST. It's made a huge difference in how I think about my body, and in the way I approach all types of movement, fitness, etc.

Great point! You are exactly right. During the habit forming stage I think we are more inclined to think 'let's burn fat and build muscle and get to goal'. There's not a lot of thought in the middle about nurturing the body or connecting with it, and in many cases, not much deep commitment. With yoga, I'm learning more about my physical abilities (or lack thereof!), relaxation, and even appreciation for my body. Although yoga doesn't burn as many calories or build as much muscle as the other parts of the program, it is very beneficial in other ways.

Julie, did you try it again after the vcr cooled down? If it is broken, call customer service and get another. I read on BB that somebody had a defective tape (or dvd) and they expedited another to her.

Hi all -
I force fed it yesterday, and got the cardio and upper body workouts done - I am still wiped out after the first set of tricep dips - but did get it all done.

I've finally got most of the moves of Foundation down, so I'll move to power push next week. What a feeling of accomplishment - I can actually lift and move my body during some of those kickboxing segments!

Afterwards, I moved the VCR slightly - I think it was slightly out of balance - it seems to work much better now. It's an old VCR, at least 5 years old, so I probably will need to buy a new one soon. It's just a hassel getting it connected to the cable correctly, and all that stuff.

I have the yoga and pilates to do today and I am looking forward to it. Still no sticky mat - by next week.

Jennifer -you are right - right now I'm focused on losing weight! Although I really know that fitness and good habits are more important. . I've been a regular exerciser in the past, and let it all slip away. But the good thing about doing this particular suite of programs is that even after ten days I can see certain positive changes in myself.

Julie

Wheeeee, good for you! I can do the tricep dips, but not the rapid-fire dips. I think I do about 4 of them max! That's up from ONE, so it is an improvement.

Tonight I jumped ahead and did Long Lean for cardio instead of Power Push or Steady Strides (it was cardio-only day). Oh boy, it does require more coordination. It reminds me a little of her timesaver workout, which I totally sucked at. :lol: I expected to be more tired at the end, or maybe not finish it, but I did, so that is disappointing for my first try. However, since it was the first time, I probably didn't get the moves executed fully and didn't get all of the exercise. We'll see next week. I'll do it again for cardio-only day.

Wheeeee, good for you! I can do the tricep dips, but not the rapid-fire dips. I think I do about 4 of them max! That's up from ONE, so it is an improvement.



Today I managed 8 rapid fire tricep dips, so I'm halfway to goal. I sure hope these aren't in the hour long sessions. :lol:

Since I'm still new to this daily workout thing - I missed yesterday. Went off plan big time. But, the sun is shining, tomorrow is the first day of spring, and I'm planning to do the steady strides again. (and maybe lower body since I missed that yesterday).

I think I'm ready to do the power push next week; I've got most of the moves down for the foundation tape.

(People are saying my skin is looking better - I expect it's a side effect of SWEAT!)

Jule

Good for you, Julie, just jump right back in. I've noticed on Power Push that my mileage varies from one workout to another. I do best in the morning as soon as I wake up. I feel like I can do more, and I walk away fatigued in a good way. If I do it at night, I don't do it as well.

I've also realized that sometimes I think I'm doing good, and then realize that I'm not getting my leg up as high as they are, or I'm not lungeing as deep as I could be. I realize something new each time I do it, and it is always helpful to get the reminders from Kathy to hold my shoulders up or to control the move and not let momentum take over. I could complete more of the workout in the beginning than I can now, and I think that is due to better form and more effort, deeper moves, etc.

Jennifer, you are so right - the last time I did the upper body, it was like I finally realized, okay, I'm supposed to use THAT muscle to but the weight up there - instead of just moving it into position.

Also, the cueing really helps with the timing of each move, so I don't get into moving the weight with momentum.

Julie

Okay, I did Power Push - I am so glad that I took an extra few days on Foundation, MUCH easier to follow the routines. . .Hopefully in 4 weeks I can actually lift my body off the floor for the routines at the end. . .

WooHoo, Jennifer - I finished the first full set of the tricep dips today!!! And four of the rapid fire. . .

I noticed from your journal that you're doing the Long Lean - is that also built on top of Power Push?? (I still haven't gotten the jumping jacks of that yet . .)

Julie

Hey Julie! Good for you on the triceps. I'm on upperbody tomorrow, so I'll shoot for 5 rapid fire. I really hate those, lol. I hope they aren't in the full body circuit! :eek:

Some of Long Lean is built on PP, but much of it is new stuff. I recognize a few of the moves from her Timesaver workout. The alternating knee raises where you do it in the middle, and then facing each side - sorry, can't remember the name! - those are in there, and the shuffles are in there, and something similar to the mountain climb (but easier) is in there. This one is a little more dancey in a way. Still not 'dancing' but she calls it attitude. There is one shimmy thing that makes me feel stupid, but it only lasts about 15 seconds so I just skip it. ;)

There isn't any kickboxing in this one. Overall, it doesn't seem harder than PP, but I can't keep up with them in a few spots. My feet just aren't quick enough. I'm wondering if I'd be faster on a hard surface instead of carpet. The carpet might be dragging my feet.

I overslept this morning BIG TIME so no time to exercise (alarm was on PM, duh). I didn't get home until 8:30 tonight, and experience tells me exercising that late is a crappy workout, plus I'll be up all night, which is a guarantee for another crappy one in the morning.

Well, my VCR is good and totally broke :( , so I will be trying to find a new one today. It swallowed a tape and won't give it up! Luckily it wasn't one of the PY tapes!

I have the same question in my mind about the carpet - the 'happy feet' in Power Push - my legs are still not rapid fire enough for that or is the carpet drag - And that shifting shuffle in the later segment? Oh well, when/if I can do them in the next 3 weeks. . . But I keep my feet moving. Sometimes I'm drinking water instead of moving my arms, but oh well!

I'm hoping that those hip lifts at the end of the chair aren't in the full body circuit. . .

Julie

Hello fellow P:You-ers! I'm Connie. I found about this thread from the Ask Kathy Smith board, and I am so excited!! This is a really cool thread, just what I've been looking for! I'm just starting my 7th week of P:Y and am enjoying many great results already. I just love this Project!

I hope it's ok for to me to chirp in here regularly...? :)

I'm not very sure how this board works, and I hope I posted this right. I'd appreciate any posting tips you might have for newbie FC.

Connie

Jennifer,

I overslept this morning too! Ack!! I had to get up very early today to have time to exercise, but I guess my body just doesn't do 6:30 AM. LOL I was really looking forward to my first Full Circuit workout, but I can use today as a Rest day and jump back in with both feet tomorrow- at a more sane time. ;)


Connie

today was my first day with project you and I really liked the workouts. It was really hard trying to schedule in time to get it down with the kids off of school. Hopefully tomorrow will be better.

Hi Connie, welcome to 3FC! You posted just right. :) You are a about 3 weeks ahead of me. You'll actually be getting more ahead of me as the next few days go because I have to nurse an injury before I get back to the program. I'm swollen from the knee down on my left leg. Most likely not getting my leg all the way up in kickboxing, and dragging it along the carpet. I never felt a specific pain when exercising, so I don't know how it happened. It could have happened anywhere, but I'm guessing the probability is high with PY. I love the program, though, and can't wait to get back to it. I will ask to be released when I go back to the Dr on Thursday. Right now I am supposed to be iced and elevated and I'm not doing either one. :o I'll go do that promptly, though!

I am so grateful to have found this program. I've got an enthusiasm for exercise that I've never had. I feel so GREAT after I workout with this program, and I can really see a difference. The scale is moving slowly (but for me it always has), but after 4 weeks I do see a big difference in my legs and abs for sure, and I feel so much better. I took measurements at the start of the program, so I'll look forward to measuring at the end. :D

Keep your fingers crossed that I get released on Thursday. I can't stand the wait! Let me know how the first full circuit goes. I'll be there in 2 weeks.


Bev, congratulations on the first day! Try and do it in the mornings, if you can squeeze it in. I have so much more energy in the day if I do it in the AM. Be sure and make time for yourself. This is for your health and you deserve it. :D

Hi!

Glad to see some other Project You'ers!

Connie - I've been lurking on the Ivillage and beachbody sites - I think it's so cool that Kathy posts on those boards!

I started week 3 over again, since I missed about 3 days last week for equipment problems, plus not feeling quite the thing since I started a cycle of steroids for a skin problem. :(

So my goal this week is to do it EXACTLY as written. . .

I think the low impact modifier (Jennifer :?: ) is my best friend on Power Push. I did do Foundation for two weeks to get the kickboxing section down, and I'm really glad. I have a problem really keeping the speed up in the skiing section towards the end of Power Push, but I keep on telling myself that I'll be able to really see my progress at the end of this cycle when I can keep up. Same with some of those leg workouts. .

Jennifer - so sorry to hear that your leg hurts. I have a similar problem with the lunge series and the carpet and being able to lift myself fast enough to do them in tempo.

But the 30 minutes fly by! I don't even check the little clock anymore to see how long I have to go!

Julie

well this morning i did foundations and upper body/abs. I did much better this morning than yesterday. I really liked both workouts.

I was wondering if you ladies are following the eatting plan with project you or doing your own thing. If you are following Project you are you using a protein shake like stated in the eatting guide. I am so clueless with protein shakes that I don't know what brand to use. I am still undecided whether to follow Project you or something else. All I know is that my weight keeps going up.

Hi Jennifer,

I'm so glad I posted "right"! I haven't posted on 3FC for a LONG time. Eeekk! I'm excited about being back and having some new friends to share in this P:Y program.

So sorry to hear about your injury! I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you to be released on Thursday. ;)

The scale is moving slowly for me, too. It seems that's how these last 60 pounds or so are going to come off. That's ok with me, as long as I keep seeing progress. lol I've noticed wonderful changes in my Core, thighs, and upper arms since I started P:Y. For me, the most important thing this project has given me is the power to connect with myself in a deeper way. My mind and body are working together now and I've become very aware of my hunger and other signals that my body sends to my mind. It's been very enlightening and empowering. I just love how Kathy tells us to make this project our own- that's the secret to success!!

Take care of that knee! Nice to meet you!

Connie :)

Hi textjewel! Nice to meet ya! :)

I just love that Kathy answers questions on those message boards! She's answered a few for me over the past couple years, and it always SO cool! And her advice is always right on. She's a really neat lady.

I'm sorry to hear about those steroids, but I hope they help with your skin problem. My sister has severe eczema and has to go on steroids for a few days sometimes. She has a really rough time handling the side effects. I feel so bad for her during those time. I hope you don't experience many side effects.

Don't worry about having to take a few days away from P:Y. Make it work for yourself, and pick it up as soon as you. That will be fine. :)

I had to take 2 weeks away from P:Y when my grandma died and my whole family went to be with my grandpa. And last week I had to modify my Week 6 (recovery) because I'm having to care for my mom while she's at home recovering from wrist surgery (she fell and severely dislocated her dominant wrist). She's home this week, too but she doesn't need as much help or "supervision".

Life happens, just do your best and make taking care of yourseld a priority each day no matter what. :)

I had a hard time with Ski section of PP, too. I had to do the slow part of the move low impact, otherwise the bottoms of my feet would cramp up. The last week of PP I was finally able to do 1 set of the Ski series just like Kathy, the others I modified to work for me. That PP was a tough workout!! It was neat to watch myself progress through it though. I bet you'll notice improvements, too.

Take care,
Connie :)

Hi Connie

My goal is to do week 3 as in the program this week - I've got Monday and Tuesday done (so that's already 40%, right?).

I sympathise with your sister - I'm definately not used to the low grade hunger I seem to constantly feel while I'm on this stuff. Thankfully, it'll be OVER by Saturday.

Life does happen! One of my goals this year- is to recognize that we can have little victories every day, and eventually they all add up. They each build on each other. Just making sure I drink enough water every day - trying to get the eating as good as I can - making the best decision when I go out to eat with my friends. . .Not buying the package of little debbie cream cakes - just because they are on sale!

Bev - I'm not following the eating plan (I'm still trying to follow LAWL, although I'm on hold until I finish the medications), so I can't help you there. But - if you go to the beachbody site, they probably have the nutrition facts on the protein powder there so you can find something comparable.

Hugs!
Julie

Hi Bev,

Congrats on your first Upper/ABs workout! Those tricep dips are a killer, aren't they? :devil: lol

I am following the P:Y Fat Burning plan, sorta. I've customized it to meet my personal needs by adding in 1 starch at Meal 4 and upping the serving size of veggies and fruits each day. My body and lifestyle require more than 1500 calories a day. These little customizations bring my calories between 1800- 2000 each day. I've really tuned into my hunger since starting P:Y and I let that guide me through the day. {Do you use the food journal that came with the program? It's really helpful.} Usually I eat every 3 hours, and make sure that each meal is well-balanced (1 protein, 1 starch (except for breakfast) and 2 produce with the appropriate amount of fat. Eating this way really has me feeling energized and overall fantastic. :hyper:

I don't know very much about protein shakes. I think Beachbody sells their brand of whey protein on their website. Maybe you could look at that and then compare it to what health food stores in your area carry? Good luck!

Connie

Hi Julie,

Hey, you're doing great- 40% is almost half! You can do it! ;)

I agree whole heartedly with you about the importance, as well as motivation, of celebrating ALL of our victories. Those are the mini steps that add up to great health and long term weight loss. For me weight loss has been a process, each little step has taught me more about myself and what works best for me in terms of good health. I look back and can't believe how far I've come- and wonder where I'll be in another 6 months, a year, 2 years etc. It's exciting and fascinating. And cries out for daily celebration. :)

Take care,
Connie

I am completely in love with Full Circuit. :love: There's something deeply invigorating to me about switching back and forth between cardio and heavy weight lifting (well, heavy for me probably isn't what bodybuilders would consider heavy :lol: ). I felt great doing this workout, the time went by surprisingly fast, and I felt jazzed all day long. Whoohoooo, great job Kathy Smith!

Time for bed....it's late! :tired:

Please share your opinion of Full Circuit, I'd love to hear another perspective and discuss some of the moves.

Connie

Hi Connie -
I haven't even looked at full circuit yet - I'll make that one of my goals this weekend - I still have 3 to 4 weeks before I'm scheduled to do that tape.
Do you need heavier weights? I have 3's, 5's and 8's - I'm willing to spring for 10's. . .

I also realized something yesterday - that doing the program even when I can't do every move with grace - is an important lesson in itself. . .

Goal - 60 % today. . . Pilates and yoga - I'm looking forward to a gentle workout today - I really could feel those glute squeezes last night! (after two continuous days of PP).

Bev, how are you doing?

Good Morning everyone,

today I did pilates and yoga ( these workouts are not my favorite- but I did them). I have always had a hard time with both of these types of workouts so I am happy that I actually completed them. So far I am really enjoying these workouts. When I first saw people talking about them I didn't think I would like them ( i started out with Kathy) but i really enjoy them. I was happy to see Kathy is thinking about doing more workouts for this line in beachbody.

Now about the eatting plan- this is the biggest challenge for me. I have always exercised so I know I can do that ( as long as I do it in the morning). I have always had trouble sticking to an eatting plan 100% but for the next two weeks I will going to try and stick to the fat burning food plan. Depending on my food choices I might have to add more food because I need atleast 1500 calories to even lose weight. I also promise all of you that I will also write everything down in my food journal.

So know that I made these promises to you ladies you have my permission to jump on my if I don't keep them.

Bev

Hi Bev-
Okay, I've been a little lax on measureing my foods since I've been on hold at LAWL because of the meds. My goal today is to MEASURE the food I eat - I've gotten lax on that.

Have you taken your body measurements yet? I haven't done that yet, either.

Julie

Hi Textjewel,

Whether or not you'll need heavier weights depends on how much strength you've gained during the first half of PY. Before I started PY I'd been lifting weights regularly for about 2 years, so I already had some decent strength in lots of places- except my triceps! lol Thanks to PY I have definition and strength in them now!

Most likely you'll be able to use the dumb bells that you already have for Full Circuit. You can always put 2 5 or 8 pound weights in your hand if you find yourself wanting a heavier weight for a specific move. In fact, that what Kathy has you do in Full Circuit for rows. You want to use a heavy enough weight to fatigue your muscles in 12 reps for Full Circuit, that's important. If you don't then you aren't getting full benefit of the exercises, and we don't want that! We've worked too hard to get this far for that, right? ;)

You've got a great attitude! I just love reading your posts. You are absolutely right, we don't have to do every move with ease or grace- just doing it in correct form is almost miracluous sometimes for me. hehe One of the things I love about PY is being able to watch and feel my body changing, experiencing moves getting easier, and being able to lift more weight. It's like continuous motivation for me.

How do you like the Core Flex? I had a hard time with Pilates for the first 1/3 of PY. I just didn't get it and I felt like it was useless. But, I've had a change of heart (after an attitude adjustment) about it after I started noticing my posture improve, my core feel stronger and watching my Abs flatten a bit. Whoohooo! I'm sold, it works!

Take care,
Connie

Hey Connie -
I got through pilates and yoga - I swear it was a new Pilates tape - I didn't remember doing several of the opening moves. I guess that's because I'm only doing it once a week (and I think this is probably my third time).

I love the physical peacefulness I feel after just 20 minutes of yoga. I find that amazing. I think I'm going to try to do it more often - I am not the most flexible chick around.

I am so glad that there's a PY thread here on 3FC -You are such an inspiration, chickie!

Hugs,
Julie

Ok has everyone except Julie taken there measurements. I took mine this morning and I was very surprised by the numbers. I was also wondering if there one body part besides weight loss that you are hoping to see changes in. Mine would be my stomach pouch. After two emergeny c-sections my lower stomach pouch is 5.5 inches more than my waist. That is the one thing I would really like to see go down.

bev

Bev - I would really, really like for my thighs to go down. I also have a pooch, no c-sections, just flabby! But - I know me - my boobs and my waist will go down first. And my ankles. I always lose inches from my extremites towards my hips. I'll be happy with just less pooch.

Hi Textjewel,

I had the same experience with the Pilates workout at the beginning of PY. I would have sworn it was a different workout. LOL Be patient with yourself, you'll start to "get it". It took me at least 4 times before it started sinking in.

I love the peacefulness of yoga, too. I have a yoga workout called Yoga for Weight Loss and I absolutely love it!! I try to do at least the first segment of that workout every week as an "extra" to my PY schedule just because I feel SO good during and after it.

I'm very happy to be part of this thread. I've been looking for some support and comarderie with my P:Y for several weeks. It's fun getting to know new people and cheering each other on. :>

Have a great day,
Connie

Hi Bev,

I took my measurements at the beginning of PY. I'm about halfway through now, and I think I'll take my measurements again this weekend.

The one area I'd like to see some (ha, that's an understatement! lol) reduction are my thighs. They are unproportionatly larger than the rest of me, which makes it very difficult to find pants that fit right. I know I've lost a good bit since starting PY already, but I always want more! hehehe Don't we all?

Keep up the great work and consistentcy! You're doing fantastic!

Connie :)

How are the PY chicks doing???

I took an unplanned rest day yesterday. . . But picked up Power Push and Lower body today. Talk about sweat city!!!

Progress - I actually got myself thru some of the jumps in the ski series! and in the lower body deadlifts(?) I actually did them supporting myself with one leg!

Bev, I'm doing better on the food measuring - but still haven't measured myself! I promise!

How's your search going for the protein powder?

Julie

Hi everyone,

well today I did foundation and upper body/abs. I am still sick so it took every bit of energy I had to do this workout. I will probably end back at the dr on monday.

Concerning the protein powder- I will probably try the chocolate spiru-tein. I am very confused about protein powder because there is both soy and whey. I can't really find a big difference between the two of them.

Julie- You are amazing that you can do the dead lifts on one leg ( without falling over ). Keep up the good work with the measuring of food. Great job on the lower body work out and push power.

Connie- I actually have the same problem as you with pants. I drives me crazy when the pants fit more every where but are tight in the thighs. So without measuring can you tell a difference in your body and energy. Congrats on being half way done.

So where are all the other Project you ladies.

well have a nice day and don't let anyone play any april fools jokes are you

bev

Bev - it was a surprise to me :D - I've been doing them both legged, and then decided to try them with one leg. Sometimes I have to remember to not do the modifier, but to try the 'real' way.

I did take my body measurements today. Always a surprise, but now I have a baseline for May 1st.

I know what you mean about pants - I need elastic in the waist, otherwise a family could go camping in the back.

I'm not sure that there is much difference between soy and whey - unless you are sensitive to milk, then you probably wouldn't want to do whey. Likewise, I don't think soy is that good for some conditions (like thyroid??)

I missed yesterday, so I'm going to try to do PP/UBW tomorrow (and if I'm dedicated, steady strides on Sunday.)

Hope you feel better!

How long does it take to get your program (PY)? I ordered mine from Beachbody this evening and am looking forward to receiving it.. I am sooooo out of shape I hope I can do this. I had been doing the Curves workout until December when I had a new grandson and he was sick, which got me out of the habit of going. Plus I watch the new baby 5 days a week and don't have time to go out for Curves. Wish me luck.. I sure need to do something. Thanks. Barbara :o

Hello ladies, I'm still on 'medical leave'. I was released yesterday, but I put myself back on it within a few hours. My knee has almost a toothache pain, and this afternoon I got really weird ankle pains. Sudden sharp ones and then they were gone in a few minutes. A friend suggested that I was favoring my injury and putting stress on my ankle. Great.

Anyway, I am planning on TRYING to do LongLean tomorrow as a replacement for Power Push. From what I remember, there was less impact and twisting in it. I do remember no kickboxing, and I'm thinking that is probably where I went wrong. It was all 'me' though, and not the workout. I have really crunchy knees anyway, and I was warned that if I can't get some cushion built up from glucosamine that I was headed for knee replacement surgery. So the program is safe, I'm just fragile, lol. I'll try this anyway. If it feels too much then I'll lay off couple of more days. This really stinks. :(

Hi Barbara!

It took me just about two weeks to get my PY. It seemed that I was waiting for the confirmation email over a week, then I got impatient, sent BB an email asking "where is it", and then the same day I got the confirmation email. And I got the package a day or two afterwards. (I did not pay extra for rush postage)

Oh Jennifer-

So sorry to hear about your knee! I've heard that there is no kickboxing in LL,too - and I must admit, I prefer lunge pyramids over a bob-weave. Have you been trying to keep up with the other workouts at all ??

Have a good weekend, chickies!
Julie

Hi Julie, I've been doing the upper body workout, but that is really all I've been able to do. It's driving me crazy, and over all I'm just really unhappy because I'm not working out. I am going to do LL tonight, and upper body, and if I do well then I will do it again tomorrow with lower body. I may have to make adjustments or only do part of lower body, but I'll do all I safely can. Actually, I guess I'd better say I will TRY and do it tonight. My husband really wants me to wait another day or two, but I don't want to. I'll see how convincing he is!

Jennifer, kudos (and not the chocolate m&m kind) to you for continuing with upper body during this. I think it's terrific that you're modifying it to fit what you can do right now.

I guess I'd say that the tapes have no 'self distruct in 12 weeks' mechanism - they'll be there when you are ready.

Yesterday - I was sinusey all day, so no exercise. I feel great today, and will get in 30 minutes of cardio and hopefully the upper body workout . .

And I'll consider week 3 done! Finally!

Julie

sorry - double post. . .

Hi Julie, hope you feel better soon. :)

I managed to do Long Lean and Upper Body today with no injuries. :encore: I had to modify a few things. I know LL is meant to be alone, but it has less twisting than Power Push, so I had less to modify. Tomorrow I'll try LL again and lower body, but I'm not so sure I'll be able to do much of the weights. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

It's good to be back!

Jennifer - thanks, I did do a cardio workout yesterday - an old Karen Voigt tape - that I hadn't done in years. . . Made about 75% of it through. It was actually fun to try something new!

Today, did PP - I'm finding I'm sweating MORE as I get the moves down better! And for upper body did Kathy's secret of a great body. It was an ebay buy. Several of the same moves on the PY tape, but some different.

Bev - how are you doing?

Julie

I did do lower body today, but I used no weights or light weights for the exercises. I was surprised I felt the burn as much as I did. I modified a few things, but it was mostly the whole workout. This morning I overslept (what's new) so I only had a chance to do LL. Tonight I did lower body, and I did Kathy's 20 minute timesaver workout beforehand to warm up. Last time I did it, I laughed the whole time because I was so bad. Tonight I kept up about 80 percent!

For any chicks lurking out there, if you haven't exercised today, DO IT! It is such a great feeling!

Hi everyone -

Got PP and lower body down today - but it was a little tougher - maybe because TOM is approaching? There were parts in PP where I just concentrated on getting the feet right and had to let the arms flail where they may. It also seemed to be a little about balance. . .Still did it!

Tomorrow is Pilates and Yoga, and hopefully I'll remember more of it this week!

I agree with Jennifer, jump in, it's worth it!

Julie

Hi Jennifer! I'm so sorry that it's taken me so long to find the time to participate in this board! Ack, where does the time go? :o

I hope by now (4/10) that your knee is feeling much better and stronger. I've dealt with knee problems and sprained ankles over the past 3 years during my weight loss/health journey, and I *know* how frustrating it can be to not be able to move like we want to. :mad: I feel your pain, sweetie. Hang in there, take care of yourself and you'll be back in tip top workout shape very soon. The better you take care of your knee, the less time you'll have to spend recovering. :D

How did your go with Long/Lean go? I'm really enjoying it. It's a fun workout and NO kickboxing! Yippie! I was getting a bit tired of KB there. :lol:

Unless other "life" issues pop up this week, I should have time to post up here more often. Yay!! :jig: lol

Connie

Whoops! I should have done my catch-up reading before I replied to your post on 4/1. :o

Big congrats on doing upper body work while your knee is healing! That's terrific! Don't focus on what you can't do right now, focus on patting yourself on your back for doing what you ARE doing despite your injury! Whoohooo!! :cp:

Connie :)

:cheer: :bravo:

Thatta girl!! You're doing just what Kathy says to- making this project your own! Way to go!!

Connie :)

Hi Julie,

I think you're onto something here- TOM definately affects my workouts. About a week before AF I'm just about depleted of energy and usually have to modify cardio down a notch or two. However, during that time I am the weight lifting Queen! Weight training seems easy and I lift a little more weight than usual, and it invigorates me. :strong: Weird, eh? Oh well. I think it has something to do with hormone dips- my testorone must be higher than usual during those few days. Whatever the cause, I hope it keeps happening every month because I love it! :love: :lol:

Congrats on doing the workout even though you were a little off balance!! Proud of ya, sweetie!! :bravo:

Connie :)

Ack, I can't believe so much time has gone by since I posted here! I hope no one thought I was "lost". No way! :p Life has just been extra full lately and when that happens computer fun time goes bye-bye. lol

I just read over my handwritten journal entries for the past 7 days and wanted to share some thoughts with you. The overwhelming theme of that journal since April 1 is my great enjoyment of my workouts. This second half of Project:You is perfect for me right now. I'm still in love with the circuit workout. I've been able to increase my weight in a few more exercises this past week. Whoohooo! I just love being able to do that! :strong: I wonder how much weight I can lift before really needing a barbell? I think I've got a couple months before that will be an issue, but it's fun to think about it. Geez, is that sick or what? lol

I believe I'm falling in great like (not love- yet) of Pilates. Yesterday I had my best Pilates workout so far. It was really neat. I was really in tune with my body, got my breath right (most of the time) and felt strong. My core is truly benefiting from Pilates. I didn't believe it would happen, but it is! Wow! :cp: I'm starting to think about buying a Pilates DVD to use after I'm done with PY. I want something with lots of certified instruction (no Lesile Sansone or Denise Austin) and moves I can grow with. I almost want the instructor to talk "down" to me, to be overly clear so I "get it". I need all the help I can get. LOL Any recommendations?

For this past Saturday's choice day I picked the Steady Strides 30 minute walk. I haven't gotten a chance to do this workout in about a month. What a difference a month can make!!!! I just about breezed through this very brisk walk and stayed in great form while being in awe of my increased strength and stamina the whole way. Last month when I did this walk I was huffing and puffing through at least 50% of it and, of course, my form suffered a bit because of it. The first time I did this walk I thought I was keel over- it was so intense and fast! I'm overjoyed with my progress. :cheer: Before I started PY I'm not sure that I ever really had these kinds of "discoveries" because I wasn't sticking to a defined and thoughtful workout schedule. What are your thoughts and experiences with this? Do you notice improvements in your strength, stamina, etc whether you're using a defined schedule or not? I'm interested to hear....

I'm very proud to share that with the exception of 4 meals this past week (out of 28 which is only 14%- sometimes I love math! lol), I've eaten very cleanly. Spring does that to me- makes me want to eat very healthy. I've been eating lots of veggies and fruits- an average of 7 servings a day. I'm happy with that, but am always striving for higher averages in this category. :D

Actually the only issue with my eats the past few days has been making sure that I'm eating enough calories each day. Is that crazy or what? Ack! I need to eat at least 1900 calories each day because of my weight and exercise schedule, but somehow I've been ending up around 1600- 1700. So, I'm back to using Fitday. It's such a helpful tool. I'm currently PMSing and I know from past experience that this revs up my hunger, and that's part of the problem right now. I've been focusing on filling myself up with healthy stuff instead of low nutrient foods which is my tendency during this time of the month. It really helps that I do NOT keep that kind of food in the house. It's also very frustrating at times. LOL I'll find my calorie balance again soon, I'm sure. PMS always throws me for a loop. I'm glad that I'm paying attention to what's happening and am doing what I can to keep my body healthy and burning up fat- no matter what time of the month it is. ; ) Ahh, I just love the power I have over my health!! :dancer:

Monday, 4/11, I'll begin week 9 of PY. I'm a little sad that I only have 4 more weeks left. :cry: I'm starting to wonder what workout schedule I'll follow after I'm done with this...? :?: Anyone have any ideas? No rush, just curious. I'm enjoying this Project SO much! And I'm very thankful to have found this thread. Thank you Jennifer to kicking it off! :high: :thanks:

Connie :queen:

Hi chickies!

I lost a few days last week for various reasons - and it definately showed yesterday - not as up to speed as I was last week! I could still finish the tapes, and still felt the upper body workout. Looking forward to getting in as much as I can this week since I'm going to be away from home a good bit of the time.

Glad that you're having such fun, Connie! I keep on learning life lessons from this system, which is a nice side benefit! How did you decide on a calorie budget of 1800?

Julie

Julie, glad to see ya again! Sometimes life creeps us on us and we have no choice but to cut our workouts short or out all together. It's not about what you DON'T do, it's about what are DOING. Live in the now (remember Wayne's World?) and do your best each day. :) You'll get your upper body strength and endurance back quicker than you figure- I just bet.

How did I decide on 1800 calories? Wow, that answer would be very long. LOL So, I'll give you the short version. Have you had any experience with Fitday.com? It's a free online diet and exercise tracker. You input everything you eat and it calculates the calories for you. In another section you can input your exercise/activities for the day and it tells you how many calories you've burned. Also in that section it tells you how many calories you need each day just to maintain your basic needs- keep your heart pumping, digestion churning- all the basics. This is the bare minimal of calories you need each day to prevent your body from going into starvation mode. (You input your weight, age, and height when you first register and you can update that info whenever you want to.) It also tells you how many calories you need to consume each day to MAINTAIN your current weight. I've used those numbers as a guideline- it's not a truly perfect system but it's a very good ballpark range. Right now my basal calories is 1730- remember, that's with no movement or activity at all- just starvation prevention. My maintenance calories is somewhere around 2400. So, 1800 is the low mid-line for me between basal calories and maintain calories. That's on days when I don't exercise or just do a light workout. If I do normal-for-me workouts I need to eat at least 2000 calories. I feel best and perform best when I consume about this each day.

How's that for the short version? LMBO!

Soo, my problem has been eating about 2000 calories while following the PY Fat Burning plan. I'm working on it...I actually did quite well today. I added in 2 snacks. Duh! Sometimes the answers are so clear that I completely miss it. lol

Hope that answered your question. If you're curious about your calorie range, check out fitday.com. It's free and really easy to use. I'll be glad to help you however I can with it. :)

Take care,
Connie

Hi Connie!

Yes, I know fitday. And a friend pointed me over to the selfdietcom, which if your a subscriber will do all that stuff and has an online diary with calorie counts. I've checked several BMR sites, and it seems at my current weight (about 190) - my BMR is about 1600, and with exercise it goes up to about 2400 too - so I've been trying to keep around 1800/day, although sometimes I'm as low as 1600 (and sometimes as low as 1300 if I'm not hungry). I think it's fascinating that we need to eat to lose - totally counter-intuitive to what we've been told for the past 20 years. . .

Last night I did a KS tape - timesaver cardio to lose weight - OMG - talk about tricky choreography!!!! That'll take me several run throughs to learn. But I'm finding I'm liking shifting some of the workouts around, as long as I get some cardio in 4-5 days a week.

Hugs,
Julie

Hi everyone,

well I am still around doing kathy smith just have not posted much. For some reason my weight seems to be up and down. I just wish it would stay down. My diet has been up and down. It would make it alot easier if I didn't like junk food like chocolate. If you are looking for your calorie count there is also a good book called dieting for dummies that explains the whole process or formula for the number.

bev

Hi Bev,

That kind of stuff can be really tough - the one thing that does seem to help me is to count out a portion size - I do this with things like nuts - and to PUT the bag away. And after I finish it, I do something else to distract myself. You've lost 9 pounds! That's terrific!

Hugs,
Julie

Good morning everyone,

well this morning i did power push and lower body plus abs. THe lower body workout is one I have to force myself to do. I don't mind the standing work but once you get on the ground I hate floor work. But my motivation is bathing suits. I started shopping and when I saw the back on my thighs ( and all the cellulite) I was determined to finish the workout this morning.

Bev

Hi everybody, I didn't mean to be absent for so long! We're writing a book, and the deadline is approaching, so we're scurrying around like crazy trying to get it finished.

My knee is all healed, and so is my ankle - did I mention that I tripped over my feet doing the grapevine? And my latest injury was pulling my calf muscle. OW, that one hurt. I might have torn it a bit, because it has been really difficult to do much of anything but walk. There is so much jogging and high knees in LL so I've not been able to give it my all. My left leg will go up, but only slowly. If I put fast pressure on my right leg, it is painful. To compensate, I'm doing another cardio session back to back. It's not the workout that caused the injury, it's my two left feet with clunky shoes and new carpet. I've pulled out my older reeboks which seem lighter and not as bulky, so I'm hoping there will be no more injuries!

I'm on the recovery week. According to the scales, I've only lost a pound in the past month. I had actually lost 4, but it keeps fluctuating. I read on BB that quite a few other people were having the same problem. From reading posts from people that were deeper into the program, I expect to see more of a drop in the later half of the program. I definitely have lost some inches though, particularly in my legs. I've not measured yet. I plan on doing that at the end of week 6.

Julie - I've been doing the Timesaver workout this week as one of my supplements. I can finally keep up, but WOW it took a long time to be able to figure it out. I screamed laughing the first time I tried to do it. I was entire sets behind them. I eventually memorized the steps and can remember what comes next, so I can do about 95 percent of the first half. I usually only do the first 20 minutes after doing LL.

HI all, I'm thinking about doing PROJECT:You, but would like to see if everyone is losing on this plan, and if you feel like it is worth the money you spent. Thanks.

Hi Macy, I have not been a good loser! However, I've lost a few inches, and that is what counts. I have a reeeeealy slow metabolism, PCOS, etc, so I don't get great results with anything, except perseverance! There are a lot of different workouts, and it is worth the money for that. Also, if you are out of shape, it is very good to get back into the swing of things. The cardio starts light (one reason I think I had a slow loss for the first half) and increases as the program goes.

If you want an idea of how it is going for me, click my journal link at the bottom of my post. Even though I've been a slow loser, the program is a huge help to get me back into strength training and I've learned loads about form that I can't get from a book.

Thanks Jennifer for the info. I appreciate all you sisters and your site.

Hi,
Im new to this board. I read Jennifer's Journal about PY. It sounded like great program. Im curious about what Rotation look like in 12 weeks? I expect to get them in about a week. I hope to start next week with PY. Im seems to be out of shape since my couple of months absent from working out. I just bought a TransFirmer from the FIrm recently and tried them. It is really hard. I still love the firm. I had them for two year but since my absent from working out I thought I probably start PY to get me into fitness over again then I will go back to the Firm.

Christy :D

The first 5 weeks are :

cardio/upper
cardio/lower
pilates/yoga
cardio/upper
cardio/lower
choice: cardio or walking cd
rest

Then you have a recovery week which alternates cardio and pilates/yoga.

Part 2 is alternating full body circuit (weights and cardio) with cardio and pilates/yoga.

You'll exercise 6 days a week, and you'll do weights basically every other day. The good thing about PY is that if you are too advanced or not advanced enough, you can modify it to work for you. I moved up to the third (last) cardio before it was time, partly because of an injury that I thought the kickboxing in part two was aggravating, and partly because I wasn't getting all the cardio I thought I needed with a sluggish metabolism.

Jennifer, Thank you for post the rotation. I can see I have to do PY 6 days a week. I dont do workout on weekend. I can do walking or activities with my family on weekend.

IM sorry to hear that you went through couple of injuries by some workout. Hope that you keep them up and not cheating over again as I read your journal. I know you can do it.

Christy :)

Uh, cheating? :lol: I think you might have read my journal wrong, because I didn't cheat, I doubled up on workouts that were a lower intensity so I could let the injury heal. Basically instead of 40 minutes at level 7, I did 60-80 at level 5.

I did delay a few days in the process, so maybe that is what you're referring to. :) But either way, I'm feeling a lot better now. I changed shoes to something less clunky and that made a huge difference!

One of those workout days is a choice day, and the Steady Strides walking CD is one of the choices. Your own walking workout would probably be just fine. I think as long as you got the heart rate up and burned :flame: some calories, it's a good replacement. Enjoy it!

Jennifer,
Oops, I didnt mean to say cheating. but I know you has been very busy writing a book and your workout was delay. I apogolized for that :o . Im glad that you keep up doing with PY and got a good result. Im happy to hear that PY can give a better result. The only thing I want is best result that all. I afraid that other workout may be not give me best result. Just the Firm always give me best result and I like to try PY to see if it will help!

Keep healthy activity and have a great weekend!

Christy :)

Oh, I forgot to add that, I finally got my PY kit last night. I was surprise to see that so fast. I ordered it on monday and got it last night. I didnt realize it was shipped from Torrance's warehouse. Torrance is just 15 minutes drive from where I live. The products look great and Im looking forward to try them out on Monday.

Christy

That was fast! I didn't get mine for at least two weeks. Have fun with it!

Hi Jennifer! I'm so glad I decided to check this thread out today! I've been missing the PY support and discussion here.

Wow, congrats on writing a book! That's awesome! Good luck!

I'm really glad to hear that your knee and ankle are healed. I know how frustrating it is to miss workouts because of an injury- I've had 4 sprained ankles since I started working out 4 years ago. LOL

I'm in the same slow-to-lose-pounds boat as you are. I've been consistently sticking to the PY workout schedule and Fat Burning plan, but I've only lost about 4 pounds. I've had a couple fluctulations thrown into the mix, too. BUT I am losing inches. I took my measurments around the halfway mark and I had lost 6 inches. I'm very happy with that!!

I'm on Day 2 of Week 12. I'm looking very forward to taking my measurements at the end of the week.

Even though I haven't lost as many pounds as I had hoped I would, I think PY is an EXCELLENT program. I've benefitted from it in so many ways.

Hope everyone is doing well. I'm glad to be "back", and I'll be checking the board often now.

Connie :)

Hi Christy! Have you gotten started with PY yet? If so, how do you like it?

I used to do The Firm workouts, too. I started having lots of knee troubles though, so I had to shelve them. Sometimes I still miss them a little, but I've been enjoying PY's Full Body Circuit workout. Before PY came out, I had discovered Cathe Friedrich's workouts. They are kind of similar to The Firm, but have a gentler tone. Don't get me wrong her workouts are killers, though. FitTV shows her workouts a couple times a day, and I've been taping them to use for my post PY workouts. I'm excited about moving on, but I will miss PY.

So, welcome to PY and 3FC!

Good luck,
Connie

Hi Connie, I was thinking about you earlier. Good to see you back. :D So you think Cathe is gentler than The Firm? I've never seen The Firm but from the clips I've seen of Cathe, she looks brutal, lol. I love to watch her, though. Does she have steps in all of her workouts? The ones I've seen all have them. I'm not sure about using a step with my knees.

What workout are you going to after PY? Have you used any other Beachbody programs?

Aww, thank you Jennifer! It feels good to be thought of. ;)

I've been thinking what I wrote about Cathe being gentler than the Firm all evening. LOL I'm not sure that was the right word. I don't know how to compare the two workout styles, they certainly are similar in alot of ways. Cathe's workouts ARE brutal, but somehow Cathe makes it enjoyable at best and tolerable at worst- to me anyway. I really like how much instruction Cathe gives in all her workouts, that's something I think the Firm could do better. Also, I feel like Cathe presents her workouts in a safe way and is very careful to show you the correct form and explain the moves.

I don't know...I guess I just like Cathe and her workouts more than The Firm and their instructors. I think The Firm went downhill after Goodtimes took over.

All of this, of course, is my humble opinion. ;)

Cathe's workouts don't all use a step. Some of her non-cardio workouts use the step or a high step (like the Firm fannylifter or Cathe has one of her "own"). There are workouts that don't use the step at all. I think she has 2 kickboxing ones that don't use a step. There are also some weight lifting workouts that don't use it. Cathe does tend to use a wide variety of equipment, but most of the time she has someone doing the move without the equipment for people who don't happen to have it- like a stability ball. She has a great website- cathe.com. There is lots of details about all of her workouts, and you can even preview them. Very cool!

Oh oh oh, Walmart has a Cathe Step for about $25! I found it right after I bought a step at a thrift store for $5. LOL

I'm going to start putting together a workout routine for post PY. I'm not sure what I want to do exactly. I don't have any other Beachbody programs, or any other programs. I've got lots of Cathe workouts from FitTV, and I want to include some of those somehow. I copied a workout routine from Muscle and Fitness Hers a couple months ago, I just might do that- if there's a weight loss "track". I plan on writing a post asking for ideas about this very thing sometime soon. I'm really interested to hear other people's opinions about it.

Take care,
Connie :)

I've been reading the PY posts here and at Beachbody. I've never posted before, but I just received my PY package, and am planning on starting on Monday, which will give me all weekend to pig out and read my materials. :) I am a little concerned, however, because people on both sites seem to be having difficulty actually losing pounds. While it's great to lose inches, I need to lose a lot of pounds! I don't want to be a firm and fit 200 lbs! Am I reading things wrong? If I am diligent, will I lose weight?

In my opinion, yes, you will lose weight with persistence. Now first I want to clarify two things. First, I eyeball my portion sizes, and until recently, I've been eating in a LOT of restaurants due to certain circumstances in my life. I normally take home half, and eat the lightest thing on the menu, but I still have no clue what all is hiding in there.
Second, I have PCOS and generally we're blessed with slow metabolisms, or other insulin issues that makes weight loss slow. I have to eat less and exercise more than the average Joe.

Ok, back to subject - I am assuming this is similar to BFL with the weight loss. There are a remarkable amount of women that did not lose much/if anythng in the first 8 weeks of that program. In BFL for women, they even discuss that issue. Something magical about week 8 of BFL where women lose weight. I'm banking on that one to work for me. ;) If you consistently weight train and build your lean muscle, you WILL lose weight. Muscle requires much more calories than fat does. So by increasing your muscle mass, your body will burn more calories automatically, which means more weight loss. If I were you, I'd count calories. I'm doing that much more strictly starting this past week, and I feel sure it will pay off. The plan in the PY book is pretty livable, but you don't have to do that particular one. If you do another plan, just make sure you are getting a good amount of protein due to the weight training.

Thanks for the response! :) I am planning on the trying the plan that came in the package. If that doesn't seem to be working, I was thinking about doing weight watchers again, and make sure I eat my "activity points". Hopefully the calorie counting will work for you. I'll keep my eyes on your journal, and my fingers crossed for you.

Hello KAS24, and congrats on your commitment to do Project:YOU!

I read Jennifer's response, and I agree with everything she said. :cp:

I'd like to add that if you're fairly new to exercise- or just strength training- you're more likely to lose pounds AND inches with this project, in my opinion. When I first started this journey of health, I lost weight at a good steady rate of 1-2 pounds each week. I've been exercising regularly for about 4 years when I started this project, and had already lost about 80 pounds. I feel like my metabolism has slowed down some because of my loss, and since I just entered my 30s. :snail: This has been an absolutely fantastic project for me in so many ways, and I don't fault it at all for not "causing" a big pound loss for me. Here are just a few of positive things that this project has done for me:

1. Establish consistentcy with weight training and yoga which has quite visabily slimmed my body down and toned it up at the same time. :barbell:

2. Introduced me to Pilates and proved to me that it works and I CAN do it. My core is definately stronger and flatter, thanks to Pilates. :cool:

3. Cleaned up my eating habits which has balanced my hormones. My face doesn't break out during PMS anymore, my cycles have become regular, and my cramps are much less intense in pain and duration. :woo:

4. Showed me that *I* have control and power over my health and that I working in my own range really is best. I've learned not to compete with myself or anyone else during a workout. Every day and every person is different. Each day I do my best for that day. It's empowering and freeing! :cheer:

5. The journal format is awesome! It keeps me honest and makes me really think about what I'm eating and why. It's a powerful tool, use it! :write:

Those are just the highlights... :D I hope this inspires and reassures you. I truly believe that this project DOES yield positive results if you're consistent. You can do it! We'll be here to cheer you on and answer your questions along the way. :goodluck:

Connie :wave:

I have a question - on the Beachbody site Kathy Smith's Project:You! is showing $14.95 +s/h but then at the bottom it states that after 30 days you will receive shipments every other month for $19.95. It is only showing Foundation, Lower Body/Abs and Pilates Core workouts. The Fast Track 2 week slim down is listed as a bonus. Also inlcudes Nutrition Guide & Journal, Food Plan, & Calendar. Now, from the reviews and posts I've been reading this is not the whole packet. Am I just really confused or am I missing something? I've never seen anyone mention the additional shipments later on. I guess what I'm asking is what was included in everyone's packages and what was the cost? Thanks!

Wow, they've changed it! I bought it outright for .... $70? I noticed that Power 90 was that way. I don't see how they can do it unless they change the whole lineup on the dvd's. My dvd's have all cardio on one, all weights on another, and pilates/yoga on a third dvd. But you alternate lower body and upperbody weights, so I don't see how they can divide it evenly.

I did some research and chatted with a BeachBody advisor - apparently the new offer is :$14.95 + s/h and you receive the 1st 3 workouts - did not specify which those are. Then you receive the additional workouts approx every other month at a price of $19.99 + s/h. Nothing was mentioned about the Steady Strides CD. So, it appears you get the basic guide, nutritional guide & journal, the calendar, The foundation workout, lower body workout and the pilates in the 1st shipment then you have to wait 60 days before you receive any other materials. He would not state how many additional shipments there are. From what I've read in reviews and forums the foundation workout isn't going to get you very far. I'm very disappointed they've changed to this selling format. He did say he could take my order for the entire package during the chat but I was not comfortable with that. Maybe if you call the order line you can still get the whole package at once.

I would not order if you get it like that. What are they thinking?? Foundation only lasts one week, and you need the Upper Body workout on Day 2! I had considered getting P90 to try out/review after Kathy Smith, but they only sold it that way so I didn't get it.

I wonder if they have a problem with people copying the dvd's and returning them - or watching in advance and deciding the program isn't for them? This way, if you hope the 'next one' is better, you won't return the one you have. Plus they rack up extra bucks on shipping and handling. Hmm.

If this is the only way they will sell it, I'd watch ebay, and meanwhile buy her Peak Fat burning cardio dvd and Lift Weights to Lose Weight from Amazon. Pretty similar cardio workout by intensity, and I've heard the strength training is similar, but I haven't seen it myself.

Hi, my name is Stephanie and after reading through this forum the other day I decided to go through with the project, you all have motivated me so much to make the first major commitment to excersise. I am really excited to start the project. I hope people continue to post, I am curious to know what happens to everyone ahead of me and the new people joining up.

Thanks a lot everybody!

Hi Stephanie! Good luck on the project!

Hi everyone! I am new to this forum, but have been doing project you for about 9 weeks. I have been doing Kathy Smith's workouts for a few years, and started lifting weights and working out consistently about 3 years ago after reading her book "Lift Weights to Lose Weight." I lost 20 lbs as a result, and I have managed to keep it off, but sometimes it's almost as hard to keep it off as it is to lose it. It's so easy to fall back into 'old' habits.

I noticed someone said they had talked to beachbody about ordering PY for 19.99/month and that they said they shipped the different workouts separately. I ordered mine in March and I am paying 19.99/month and it all came at once. ???? Perhaps the person they spoke to at beachbody was mistaken? Anyway I would make sure you get all the dvds/videos at once.

I can't say I've seen any dramatic changes with PY - I'm about the same weight, I have maybe lost a *little* in inches. I'm only doing the workouts, not following the eating plan. What I do notice is when I do other physical activities that they are much easier than they used to be. I feel much stronger, and I feel like I have more endurance. That's pretty cool! It will come in handy this summer when I'm running around with my kids.

I am so tempted to get PY. I keep going to the beachbody website and putting it in my basket and then taking it out again. I've been using Leslie walks and doing about 3 days of toning exercises but my diet sucks and after a while I get lazy and stop working out. I did a SI6 rotation a while ago for about 5 weeks and did lose weight with that but couldn't stick with it because I felt the workouts were too strenuous and boring. I'm wondering if Kathy's PY will be the same way for me? I do need more structure. I'm starting the new Slim Fast Optima diet and would like to get a more regimented exercise routine but I'm wondering if the cardio portion of PY is complicated. I have two left feet and could NEVER follow the Firm cardio at all. That's why I like Leslie Sansone workouts for the simplicity. Do you think a gal with two left feet could do PY?

Jennifer if you don't mind me asking what is your book about? I've always had aspirations to be a writer some day. Congrats to you.

Honestly, if you get bored easily, this might not be the program for you. I am *almost* done with Project:You but the last couple of weeks have been hard. You do basically the same workout rotation for 6 weeks. I usually change mine every 3-4 weeks. I am getting pretty bored with it but am sticking with it because I am *so* close to finishing. Plus I have gotten some great fitness benefits from doing this program. I can see doing this once a year for a mini fitness makeover.

I'm not doing any of the food stuff - I've just been eating the way I normally do, maybe eating a little more protein.

You might want to try reading Kathy's book "Lift Weights to Lose Weight." It has a 12-week program to get you into lifting weights and working out regularly. It also has a nutritional plan. I picked up that book 3 years ago and it totally motivated me. I lost 10 lbs in the first 12 weeks which was my original goal. Then I kept going for a total weight loss of 20 lbs and I've kept it off by sticking to the basic principles she outlines in the book.

I have to agree. I was doing fine until here at the end. I'm wrapping up next week and about a week ago, I realized I had every line memorized! One thing that helps with the weights is that I have the air conditioner on now that it is warm (I'm in the attic where it gets hot) so I don't hear as well, so it was actually nice to do it to silence. I might try putting on some music tomorrow to see how that goes.

One more set of workouts would have been perfect, added in about week 8 or 9.

Thank you Jennifer and peoplearenuts (l love your username by the way). I was thinking that this would be similar to Slim In Six and by the time the program was coming to an end I would get burned out. I know it would work for me because Slim In Six worked for me but if it's going to be similar then why invest the money? I guess I'll hold off and see if there isn't something else out there I might like more. Thanks again for your opinions.:D

I've been looking, and I'd like to try Project You, but is there anywhere besides beachbody that sells it? I don't really like doing the whole payment bit and having to wait for items.

Also, do you have to follow their diet, or can you do one of your own, such as WW? I'm on WW and getting good results, I just want a workout that is challenging.

As far as I know, there isn't anywhere else, unless you pick one up on ebay. They now sell Slim in 6 (or maybe it is the Slim Series, hmm) at Target, so maybe this one will follow behind one day.

(I just looked, they have 2 sets on ebay right now)

You do not have to follow their diet plan, but if you are doing your own, make sure you are getting enough protein because you will be strength training.

dakota,
Try this link:
http://www.beachbody.com/templates/kspy.jsp?ruleID=3077&itemID=139&itemType=CATEGORY&showChanges=true
It should give you the three payment option for the whole program plus a 20% discount once you put it in your shopping basket. It comes to $47.88 which will be broken into three payments of $15.96 but they will had S&H of $9.95 and sales tax for your area on to your first payment. I don't like the intro deals either and I hate the idea that they will keep sending me workouts and charging my account every couple of months so this is a better option. I hope the link works. Let me know if it doesn't. Good luck!

How do you get the 20 percent off? Does it show up in checkout? I had a coupon with mine to enter a code for 20 percent off a future purchase, but I have no idea what I did with the coupon.

Hi Jennifer,
If you follow the link and put it in your basket and go to checkout it should show the 20% discount in the price. It should go from $59.85 to $47.88. I hope the link still works! I just used it last week but I'm not sure if it has an expiration date on it!

Nope, it's not giving me the 20% discount. when I click add to cart, I then see this:

ITEM # PRODUCT OPTIONS UNIT PRICE QTY. EXT. PRICE
KSDVDK1 Kathy Smith's Project: YOU (3 payments of $19.95) $59.85
KSDVDK5IN Kathy Smith's Project: YOU Introductory Program $14.95

Guess that discount is over.

I'm sorry the 20% off isn't still working. I'll keep my eyes open for discounts and I'll pass them along here if any new ones come out.

I am interested in Project You, but I want to make sure I understand the details.

I pay $59.98 that gets me what?

Then in the same initial order I can get 2 new workouts and a free gift for $14.95, (bringing my initial payment to a total of $74.80) plus I have to pay $19.95 when they arrive? How many of these are there? How do they fit into the program?

Maybe I am slow but I am kind of confused. LOL My husband is not keen on me spending a ton on this so I need details to provide him. Any help would be great. I did find the program on ebay but I am not sure how that compares to buying it from the website.

Thanks:)

http://www.beachbody.com/cdrom.htm

Rachelle

They have changed it around so that you don't get the entire program at once. Instead of paying all at once and getting everything at once, you will pay in installments and receive in installments.

First you pay $14.95 + $5.95 s/h ($20.90 - less 20 percent from the above code)- This will get you the intro cardio, the lower body workout, and Pilates. (plus a diet plan and workout calendar/poster, etc)

Then after 30 days you will automatically be billed for the next installment of $19.95 + s/h ($25.90 less the 20 percent, I assume) and that will get you another 'third' of the program, and then in another 30 days you will get the remaining third of the program.

So overall, you are still going to spend $60ish dollars for the whole program, but now you have to wait and get it in installments instead of a bit at a time. I have no idea how the exercise program works these days. When I did P:Y, I did upper and lower body together, and yoga and pilates together in the same first week. Now, you don't even get upper body for the first month - I'm not sure how that works!

As for ebay, what you see is what you get. I don't know how interested you are in the eating program, but that is basically what you get from the printed matter. If you're looking for just the exercise program, look for dvd's/videos of the following:

3 levels of cardio, an upper body workout, a lower body workout, a full body 'circuit training' program, and pilates and yoga. There is also a cd for a power walk. (optional)

Hope this helps!

Hi there!

Thanks! It kind of sounds like a big pain in the butt! LOL. When I add it to my cart it I am charged $74 something. $59 for the program and $14 for some plus program. Under the description of the $14 plus program it gives a brief detail of the sending of the installments and says they cost 19.95 plus shipping. So I still don't understand what the $14.95 gets you. S0 The way I figured it I paid $74 something up front then was billed an additional $24 once the installments came. For a total of $122. But I bad with math and fine print LOL so I could be wrong.

I will check out teh 20% off link though :)

I liked the idea of having it all laid out. But I want to pay one price for an entire program and have it at my finger tips. This installment bussiness is for the birds in my opinion. Plus I don't want the meal plan anyway I do WW.

But thanks for your responses!!!! I may see what I can get on ebay. I did pick up a couple DVD's at Kmart with five 10 minute routines each, so maybe I will just make up my own little program :).

Have a great day everyone!!!

Hi, again :)

I checked out the 20% off. So now instead of $74 it's $59.84. Which is better. But there is still an $11.96 item (seperate from the program), that reads:

Kathy's Introductory Program-Plus you'll receive 2 new workouts and a FREE gift about every 45 days. Each workout is just $19.95 (+$5.95 s&h per shipment) billed to the credit card you provide, and is yours to try risk-free for 30 days. Cancel any time.

So any guesses as to what that is and if the workouts are $19.95 plus shipping waht is the $11.96 for? Is it for your first set? Are these DVDs extra in addition to your entire program? To me it sounds like a video subscription, liek Columbia house or something.

Just curious if anyone else has found this and what they think it means. THANKS:) sorry to be annoying.

From what it looks to me - and YES this is very confusing! - is that the 11.96 program is the beginning installment of 14.95 less the discount. But it sounds like they are actually charging you twice from what you say. I would call them and ask.

There could be the possibility that they are showing you the whole charge, and then only charging you installments on your credit card each month as they ship. Like EZPay on QVC. ;) If you flip one additional page on that order form will that charge you, or will that give you a summary of the charge? Hopefully they are just charging the initial installment on your credit card.

http://www.beachbody.com/jump.jsp?itemID=115&itemType=CATEGORY&path=1,2,21

to buy individual workouts.

If I remember correctly, I think you can call BeachBody and somehow get the full package they once offered. I remember someone having the same thing happen with Yoga Booty Ballet Goddess and someone told the person to just call customer service and she was able to get. It's worth a try anyway. You can also mention the 20% and they should give it to you.

It's the pits - I know they are going to do this with the new Turbo Jam workouts. I would much rather buy them as a group then to do a subscription to them.

Rachelle