barre3 28 to great challenge

on monday, i started the barre3 "28 to great challenge".

barre3 helps to balance, strengthen and lengthen the body with moves inspired by ballet, yoga and pilates. sadie lincoln, barre3 founder, works closely with a team of experts including yogis, professional dancers, doctors, and athletes to craft highly efficient workouts. focusing on a unique combination of dynamic movement and isometric holds, the sequences work strategically to transform the body and develop long term postural benefits.

two years ago, i was a southern california transplant living in the pacific northwest (bend, or). i have never been able to stick to any exercise program, no matter what i try. i have had countless gym memberships, own a plethora of exercise dvds, joined running groups, zumba'ed and gone to yoga and pilates studio classes. while in oregon, a friend invited me to join her by going to a barre3 class at a local studio. i accepted and was hooked. i have never seen my body respond to an exercise program so well and i have never enjoyed something quite as much. i felt healthy, more confident than i have ever felt about my body and was in *love* with the results--a rockin' "barre3 booty" and long, lean muscles. 

i have since returned to my southern california roots and am back in san diego. they just opened up the first barre3 studio in san diego, but unfortunately it is more than 30 minutes from my house which makes it an unrealistic option for regular attendance. i was *thrilled* when i heard that i can now access my favorite workout program online *and* they are now offering a "28 to great challenge" as well. the "28 to great challenge" includes unlimited online access to tons of awesome workouts (the range from 10-60 minutes in length) as well as an easy, step-by-step exercise and nutrition plan for the 28 days. it also includes weekly email newsletters with specific directions, tips, and motivation for the week ahead, a barre3 core ball and barre3 wristband----all of the above for only $28! 

note: if there is a barre3 studio near you, go!! they have child care and it is a truly supportive environment with amazing women, great music and unbelievable results.

i am 4 days into my 28 day challenge and doing well. the online workouts make me feel like i am back in the studio and they are easier to do at home then i thought they would be. i am having less success with the meal plan this week, having guests in town visiting....but i plan to keep improving on that as well. 

i would love to have you join me on this challenge---sign up and join me on my 28 to great challenge. i will be following up with a post at the end of the challenge to let you know the results---stay tuned! :-)

friday fun finds: best workout dvds for keeping your resolution

so, you all may have the cute clothes you need to get started on your resolutions.....but now you actually need to workout. as a busy mommy, i know how hard it is to find time for yourself outside of the home. here are some amazing dvds that you will love for your in-home workouts. let us know if we missed any of your personal favorites.

barre3- total body lift workout

if you have ever wanted the body of a ballerina, this is your chance. this 40 minute workout dvd comes with a core ball (needed for exercises) and before you know if you will have beautiful, long and lean muscles. i can personally say that i am a devout believer and have never seen a more dramatic change in my body than with barre3. if you happen to be lucky enough to live where they have studios, do yourself and your body a favor and go take a class. you won't regret it. (you can thank me later).

jillian michaels: 30 day shred

this dvd contains three complete 25 minute workouts at three different levels. it mixes cardio, strength training, and an intense focus on the abs to create a system that they say can result in extreme weight loss as impressive as 20 lbs. in 30 days. that sounds pretty great to me---although, i think half the battle will be simply getting through a whole 25 minutes with jillian and her yelling.

p90x

the program boasts that it will help you change your body in 90 days. i don't doubt it---all i have heard is praise from people that have tried it. my own sister says that she has never seen such a change in her body in such a short time. i think these dvds are next on my wish list.

paula abdul's get up and dance!
make fun all you like, but that girl can dance! i promise you that it will be the most fun you may have ever had working out. if you love to dance and like miss paula abdul, this one is for you. 

personal training with jackie: crunch-free xtreme abs
if you have ever wanted those elusive washboard abs this dvd is for you. wowzers! jackie thinks that traditional crunches are a waste of time and she just might be right....i have never felt my abs burn quite the way they have after only two short 15 minute workouts.