[sportmom]

It seems like a really comprehensive training program, but with much more content on biomechanics than BFL - which I found more on the motivation side, but lighter on the educational aspect. Chapters on the differences in muscle types, slow twitch/fast twitch, metabolism, etc. Then they give you a specific workout program for 6 weeks, 8 weeks, then the final 12 week phase (I might be off on the number of weeks, but you get the idea). They prescribe cardio, and there's a ton in there about eating and nutrients, which I'm just starting on. They say both Rachel McLish and Corey Eversont trained to this program to make Ms. Olympia (as well as the guys who used it to make Mr.)

Another interesting thing...I know we've debated here about how long you should do cardio, and whether going beyond a certain time "eats up" your muscle fibers. Hmmm.... Well, they don't say exactly that, but they do say:

"If your goal is to max strength and develop a cut body, keep your aerobic exercise sessions at 20-30 mins, but no more. Longer aerobic exercise stimulates your body to develop more slow-twitch muscle fibers and smaller muscles. This can be counterproductive to your bodybuilding. It's a delicate balancing act to choose the right amount of anaerobic and aerobic exercise."

So I think this is different than our debate about destroying muscle gains, but maybe gives more explanation as to why that wisdom is out there.

So what's a girl to do who has a lot of fat to burn & thought that meant 45 minute intense cardio walking sessions? I need to burn fat, but not at the expense of the right kind of muscle fiber.

(This is on p66 for anyone following along)

[Mel]

This can be counterproductive to your bodybuilding.

I really think they are refering to people in a pre-comp phase when they said that. Current hard evidence is still contradictory, but the muscle conservation issues when dieting down from 14% to 8% bodyfat are not the same as for people with bodyfat over 20%.

What are your goals? Are you doing this to be a bodybuilder or to be fit? There is really a difference.

Mel

[sportmom]

I want to be fit, specifically with nice muscle tone that's visible and with a strong cardiovascular system.

BTW Mel, it looks like we'll be having lacrosse practice here in the morning with SNOW on the ground. They're calling for one inch. Smiley - NOT!

[KylieH]

Hrbabe, I completely agree with you about BFL's motivational focus. Next week is week 7 and I'm starting to think about a long term direction, so let me know what you find out about the Weider plan. It sounds really interesting.