Firm Believers Meet Here!

[Firm Believers]

We are a group of women who use The Firm series to lose weight, tone up, improve heart health, etc. The purpose of this group is to provide support and to make us accountable for completing our work-outs.

Let’s use this group thread to discuss our favorite videos, tweaks we’ve made to using the videos (added ankle/wrist weights when not called for, increased other weights when we need to boost our workouts), review new videos, share our calories burned (if you have a heart rate monitor) and other successes.

Feel free to join at any time. Don’t feel obligated to read the whole thread; just post on the last page with the following information (feel free to add or omit information as you see fit):

Me: name/age
Using The Firm since:
Why I use The Firm:
Why I love The Firm:
Firm Stuff I own:
Favorite Firm Instructor:
Favorite Firm Video:
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007:
Miscellaneous Information:

Please post all updates in red.

If you don’t have Firm videos or equipment but you’d like to get some, there are multiple places where you can purchase them. To name a few, you can support CC and buy from Amazon (http://www.constantchatter.com/shop/), you can buy directly from their website (http://www.firmdirect.com), you can buy from Target (online (http://www.target.com) or in-store), you can buy from individual sellers on eBay (http://www.ebay.com), or you can buy from Collage Video (http://www.collagevideo.com).

Also, if you’d like to share motivators, books, recipes, websites, tools, or anything else you can think of that helps you stay motivated, please do!

Your threadmistress is Reenie.

[Firm Believers]

Members

amtaylor
Me: Amber - 28
Using The Firm since: Tonight 8/7/07
Why I use The Firm: A few people asked "are you pregnant?" Nope... gave birth 22 months ago I also really enjoy classes, but don't have the time to go to a real gym
Why I love The Firm: Something about it caught my eye a few years ago.
Firm Stuff I own: The transFIRMer and the 3 DVDs that came with it
Favorite Firm Instructor:
Favorite Firm Video:
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007:
Miscellaneous Information:

APhiJill
Me: Jill
Using The Firm since: on and off since 1999 (now back on dammit)
Why I use The Firm: It is NOT boring and it is a great timesaver. Oh yeah if you stick with it, "results, results that you can see"--Susan Harris
Why I love The Firm: I can do it in the privacy of my home. The instructors are not barbie dolls. It is NOT a fad
Firm Stuff I own: Every damn thing the FIRM has ever put out. Including old school rotation calendars, VHS, DVDs, catalogs, books
Favorite Firm Instructor: Tracie Long and Allie
Favorite Firm Video: Maximum Body Sculpting with Tracie
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: -0 lb
Miscellaneous Information: in 2000 I did a pilgrimage to the FIRM. Took classes and met instructors

bamboo
Me: Bre/28
Using The Firm since: About 6 months before my wedding (2004), and just started again
Why I use The Firm: It felt like the best in-home workout of a bunch of workout tapes I tried back before my wedding. It's winter and rainy where I live right now, and I'm still holding onto some baby weight I want to lose.
Why I love The Firm: Good workouts, and I really like the mix of weights and cardio.
Firm Stuff I own: Fanny Lifter and Ab Sculpt/Cardio Sculpt/Body Sculpt DVDs
Favorite Firm Instructor: Allie
Favorite Firm Video: Cardio Sculpt, it's a little bit of everything
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: none yet!
Miscellaneous Information:

bethnjim
Me: Beth/28
Using The Firm since: 3/3/07
Why I use The Firm: Because when I used it before my wedding, I saw huge results within 10 workouts
Why I love The Firm: It is designed for women and it seems to target the areas I carry fat in
Firm Stuff I own: I own the first series they came out with that included the box
Favorite Firm Instructor: Allie
Favorite Firm Video: Cardio
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: Let's see, I started at 255 and I am now down to 230 so that would be a -25. I have dropped from a 22-24 to a 16-18.
Miscellaneous Information: My husband and I are starting to try this summer for a baby, which is why I want to be in shape.

cha4ya
Me: Chawon Smith/29
Using The Firm since: November 2006
Why I use The Firm: I wanted to loose weight before my 30th birthday.
Why I love The Firm: I am in the best shape of my life now!
Firm Stuff I own: Incline box, bar, videos
Favorite Firm Instructor: Pam ?
Favorite Firm Video: Like them all
Total lbs lost in 2007: 26
Miscellaneous Information: I use the firm video twice a week, and I also run 5 miles three times a week. I have seriously transformed my body. I am leaner more tone, and I can fit into old pants from my college days! I can also wear a bikini now!!

cocoa femme
Me: Bree, 29
Using The Firm since: This coming Monday (1/8) .
Why I use The Firm: I plan on using The Firm, because of the "results in 10 workouts" promise. We'll see...
Why I love The Firm: I haven't used it yet, but I love the convenience of doing it in my own home. Hopefully, I'll get some results.
Firm Stuff I own: I have the TransFIRMer Series (including 4 videos and the TransFIRMer).
Favorite Firm Instructor: Not sure yet. I'll let you know.
Favorite Firm Video: TBD
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: TBD, but I'd like to lose 15 - 20 lbs.
Miscellaneous Information: I haven't started The Firm yet. I plan on doing so on Monday.

Foley42
Me: Lindsay/24
Using The Firm since: I've had it for a year, but used it less than 10 times.
Why I use The Firm: I need to get my butt off the couch!
Why I love The Firm: upbeat, you can use in it in the privacy of your home
Firm Stuff I own: TransFirmer and 4 DVDs

lbs27
Me: lbs27/32
Using The Firm since: Um, can't remember, I think December 04 for the regular series and I bought the Transfirmer about a year after that, I think
Why I use The Firm: Used to go to the gym for aerobics classes and stopped when I changed jobs. I love this because the moves are a lot more like classes than other tapes I've tried
Favorite Firm instructor: I like Allie, but not all of her tapes. I also like Stephanie and Lisa
Favorite Firm Video: AbScuplt, Jiggle Free Abs, Ultimate Calorie Blaster, Supercharged Sculpting
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: down about 7 or 8 pounds since New Years

[Firm Believers]

Members, continued

Lily
Me: Erica/27
Using The Firm since: Just ordered it online.
Why I use The Firm: To lose my baby weight.
Firm Stuff I own: Excercise Ball & DVD's
Favorite Firm Instructor: Not Sure Yet
Favorite Firm Video: Not Sure Yet
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: -1.5 so far

Lizzie Beth
Me: Beth/32
Using The Firm since: used it for about 6 mos. until I got pg w/ my first daughter, Susannah
Why I use The Firm: It doesn't seem as cheesy as the others
Why I love The Firm: Good workouts, and I really like the mix of weights and cardio.
Firm Stuff I own: Fanny Lifter and the stick thingy
Favorite Firm Instructor: Allie
Favorite Firm Video: Cardio Sculpt
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: no idea
Miscellaneous Information: I had my second daughter, Kate, last November

meagle
Me: 30
Using The Firm since: January 2005
Why I use The Firm: When all the New Year's resolutioners hit my gym in January, I just want to stay home. The FIRM let me do that in 2005 and I got hooked, although I head back to the gym a bit more after everyone else gives up each March.
Why I love The Firm: I see results quickly and I don't need to be motivated to get dressed and drive to the gym. I can just put on my scuzzy clothes and pop in a DVD.
Firm Stuff I own: System II (Fanny Lifter + Stick), System III (Box), System IV (TransFIRMer), miscellaneous non-prop DVDs released in 2006 and 2007 (with Alison and Allie)
Favorite Firm Instructor: Pam
Favorite Firm Video: Jiggle Free Buns (TransFIRMer)
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: Lbs lost = 12

meggers
Me: Meghan/28
Using The Firm since: first used it in 2003
Why I use The Firm: I have a lot a weight to lose
Why I love The Firm: It works
Firm Stuff I own: Fanny Lifter, Sculpting Stick, The Box, & a bunch of DVDs
Favorite Firm Instructor: not sure
Favorite Firm Video: not sure
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: none yet
Miscellaneous Information:


Reenie
Me: Reenie, 26
Using The Firm since: off and on since January 2004; restarted January 2007
Why I use The Firm: to lose weight, tone up, and be heart healthy
Why I love The Firm: most of the instructors look “real,” I see results quickly, privacy of using at home, convenience of being at home
Firm Stuff I own: BSS I and videos, BSS II and videos, BSS III and videos, Transfirmer and videos, TransFIRMation system, many props and multiple other miscellaneous videos
Favorite Firm Instructor: Allie Del Rio Pointer, Stephanie Huckabee, and Nancy Tucker
Favorite Firm Video(s): CardioSculpt (Allie) and AbSculpt (Lisa) from BSS I; Max Cardio Burn (Allie) and Complete Aerobics and Weight Training (Emily) from BSS2; Fat Blasting Cardio (Lisa) from BSS3; Ultimate Calorie Blaster (Stephanie) from TransFIRMer; Calorie Killer 1 (Nancy); Super Cardio (spliced tape) from Cross-Trainers
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: -25.6 lb, -8.2% BF, and -28.5 inches
Miscellaneous Information: I love Spark People (http://www.sparkpeople.com) for tracking exercise, calories burned, and entering food and water intake (currently doing 1200-1550 kcal/day, 55% carbs, 15% protein, 30% fat); I also LOVE cardio, like ab work, and HATE sculpting

Scoutesina
Me: Scoutesina/33
Using The Firm since: Used it from Jan.-July 2005, am trying to get back to it at least a couple times a week
Why I use The Firm: The tapes helped me lose 35 lbs. over about 8 months last year. I've kept it off with walking, but I need to get back to weight-bearing exercise, especially tummy and upper arm toning.
Firm Stuff I own: I'm such a cheapskate, and I'm adamant that being healthy doesn't have to be costly. I bought 7 or 8 Firm tapes off half.com (thanks to a heads-up from my pal Reenie--most were about 99 cents plus $3 shipping). I use my trusty ten-year-old Denise Austin step instead of the Fanny Lifter, a broomstick and 3-, 5-, and 10-lb. hand weights instead of the Sculpting Stick. I don't have any of the newer Transfirmer series tapes so I don't know how/if I could improvise those.
Favorite Firm Instructor: the blonde lady with the Southern accent. It's been so long, I can't remember her name
Favorite Firm Video: I have some of the older ones but can't remember the names of my favorites. My least favorite is a really, really old one that's all arm-work, but sadly, that is what I need most.
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: holding steady so far. I want to gain muscle. I'm currently at 28% body fat.

Sue
Me: Sue, 34
Using The Firm since: early 2006
Why I use The Firm: to lose weight and tone up
Why I love The Firm: the results!, convenience
Firm Stuff I own: Transfirmer and videos, random DVD's
Favorite Firm Instructor:
Favorite Firm Video: Ultimate Calorie Blaster
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: TBD
Miscellaneous Information: I am also doing WW, I haven't been too motivated during the holidays, but it's time to kick it into high gear. During the summer when I was doing WW and The Firm, I lost close to 20 lbs. - and I was nicely toned.

zoeyzo
Me:31
Using the firm since: 5 weeks ago
Why I use the firm: I need to lose the weight that has been creaping up over the years
Why I love the firm: It challenging and I can do it at home after work
Firm stuff I own: Transfirmer and 3 videos that come with it
Favorite firm instructor: Allie
Favorite firm video: Supercharged Sculpting
Total pounds lost: 11
Total Inches lost: 6

[Firm Believers]

Second saved...

[Firm Believers]

And one more saved for good measure...

[Firm Believers]

OPEN FOR POSTING
C’mon, you know you wanna join! :)

[Reenie]

I’ll start. ;) I’ve just gotten back into the Firm after a year-long hiatus at Curves. Curves was good for me and I liked it, but I like the Firm better. My Curves contract just expired, so I chose to cancel and reunite with my Firm videos and equipment.

For these four weeks (January 1-27), I am using BSS I and a modification of its start-up schedule (because Tuesdays and Thursdays are totally impossible for me right now):
Jan. 1: CardioSculpt 488 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 3: CardioSculpt 450 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 5: CardioSculpt 411 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 7: AbSculpt DONE! (approx. 50 calories burned)
Jan. 8: CardioSculpt 353 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 10: CardioSculpt 395 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 12: CardioSculpt 300 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 13: AbSculpt DONE! (approx. 50 calories burned)
Jan 14: BodySculpt (entire tape) 295 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 15: CardioSculpt 355 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 17: CardioSculpt 300 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 19: AbSculpt DONE! (approx. 50 calories burned)
Jan. 20: AbSculpt and BodySculpt (lower body section only) 322 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 21: BodySculpt 330 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 22: CardioSculpt 351 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 24: CardioSculpt 365 CALORIES BURNED!
Jan. 26: AbSculpt DONE! (approx. 50 calories burned)
Jan. 27: AbSculpt and BodySculpt (upper body section only) 140 CALORIES BURNED!

I used my Spark People planner to send me reminders in my email so that I would know which video I had scheduled and to keep myself on track.

[Sue]

Thanks for starting this Reenie!

Sue
Me: Sue, 34
Using The Firm since: early 2006
Why I use The Firm: to lose weight and tone up
Why I love The Firm: the results!, convenience
Firm Stuff I own: Transfirmer and videos, random DVD's
Favorite Firm Instructor:
Favorite Firm Video: Ultimate Calorie Blaster
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained: TBD :)
Miscellaneous Information: I am also doing WW, I haven't been too motivated during the holidays, but it's time to kick it into high gear. During the summer when I was doing WW and The Firm, I lost close to 20 lbs. - and I was nicely toned.

[Sue]

Bree, I know I saw results in 10 workouts... amazing, but true :)

I plan on starting up again tomorrow. I have a gym membership, but I like to workout in the morning - I'm just too tired after work - and it's easier to roll out of bed and go downstairs. My DH goes a lot in the morning, but we have dogs and 1 needs to be crated, I feel so guilty crating her for an hour in the morning and then all day while we're at work.

[cocoa_femme]

Bree, I know I saw results in 10 workouts... amazing, but true :)
Sweet! :D!

[Firm Believers]

Updated :)

Welcome Sue and cocoa femme!

[Reenie]

Whew, I'm glad I'm not in here by myself. :o

I will be measuring myself around the first each month, but doing weight and body fat each week. This week, I lost 2.6 lb and 0.9% BF! :D I am glad about that, especially since there were two days that I wasn't on food plan, and a couple of days when I pushed my calorie intake to my upper limit. But I was on exercise plan the whole week! :)

Today, I am doing AbSculpt (http://www.amazon.com/Firm-Ab-Sculpt/dp/B00008LDZW/sr=8-5/qid=1168186269/ref=sr_1_5/102-4355701-1263319?ie=UTF8&s=video) with Lisa Kay. I'm not sure how many calories I'll burn since it's more of a strength video with emphasis on the core, but nevertheless, I need the toning there more than anywhere else.

cocoa femme I, too, saw results quickly... even before ten workouts! It's awesome. What they say is true, too: you may not lose *weight* the first couple of weeks, but your clothes will fit differently (better). Good luck tomorrow! :)

Sue I'll have to try Ultimate Calorie Blaster (http://www.amazon.com/Firm-Ultimate-Calorie-Blaster-Firm/dp/B000AYYVEC/sr=8-2/qid=1168186526/ref=sr_1_2/102-4355701-1263319?ie=UTF8&s=video). I already have it, I just have never used it yet. :o This month, as I said, I'm going to do BSS I, then next month I think I'll do BSS II, then BSS III, then the Transfirmer series, so I'll work my way up to that. :)

[Sue]

Whew, I'm glad I'm not in here by myself. :o



I think this is a great way to hold myself accountable. I did WW and the Firm during the summer and I lost close to 20 pounds. Then I kinda a fell off the wagon and did everything sorta half-assed. I maintained, which I'm very thankful for, because this last fall off the wagon I didn't do so well :( December was a cruel, cruel month!

Later today I need to plan out my videos for the week. It's so much easier to plan ahead :)

[cocoa_femme]

Sue and Reenie, It's great that you saw results so quickly. Did you guys follow the "work out every other day" plan?

[Sue]

Just about every other day, depending what my schedule was like for the week or what I felt like doing that day. There should be a video "rotation" that came with the transfirmer, did you get it?

[cocoa_femme]

Yep, I got it. Just wanted some "real life" opinions.

Thx!

[cocoa_femme]

I am so proud of myself. This morning, I got up and did the Supercharged Sculpting DVD. I made it through the whole thing, only pausing a bit on the leg presses. This is huge for me, since I haven't worked out in over a year (probably two)!

[Sue]

I am so proud of myself. This morning, I got up and did the Supercharged Sculpting DVD. I made it through the whole thing, only pausing a bit on the leg presses. This is huge for me, since I haven't worked out in over a year (probably two)!

That is awesome!! I did Ultimate Calorie Blaster yesterday and boy am I sore today!

[Reenie]

cocoa femme Yep, I use the rotations that come with their stuff, with a little tweak because of my Tuesday/Thursday debacles (I leave the house at 7 a.m. and get home at 9 p.m.... uh, too tired to exercise after all of that!). GOOD FOR YOU on the workout! That is wonderful (the first time I did my first video back in January 2004, I kept having to stop because I was so out of shape and out of breath! :o ).

Sue GOOD FOR YOU, too! You know, that kind of soreness always feels kind of good to me because I know I've earned it :p . Or maybe I'm a masochist.

Yesterday, I did AbSculpt; I knew I wouldn't burn much since it's not a cardio thing. I only burned 50 calories (in 24 minutes) :rolleyes: , but I did lots of work on my abs and lower back, so I know it's worth it to tighten up. BUT I won't be wearing my heart rate monitor for that one in the future since it turned out that I didn't really need it (50 calories!) and plus, the little piece that you pull to adjust the band was on my back and I did so many crunches, etc., that I now have a little rectangle-shaped bruise where it was.

Today, I am doing CardioSculpt again. Will update with my calories burned later.

Can I just say that I love my Spark People appointment reminder? I've entered all of my workouts for this four-week period, and it emails me a reminder at 2 a.m. (you can set it for whenever you want) for which workout (or rest :D ) I have that day. I initially did it so I wouldn't have to check the calendar, but now I'm finding that staring at it every time I open my inbox is motivating me to just do it! (I can't stand clutter in my inbox and I am not allowing myself to delete my reminders until I have actually worked out).

[Reenie]

CardioSculpt done. 353 calories. I am noticing that each time I do this video, my calories burned are going down. I wonder why? I'm using the same weights and I feel like I'm working as hard as I can without speeding up the routines. :confused:

[Sue]

CardioSculpt done. 353 calories. I am noticing that each time I do this video, my calories burned are going down. I wonder why? I'm using the same weights and I feel like I'm working as hard as I can without speeding up the routines. :confused:

Is it getting easy? Maybe you need to up the weights a bit?

[Sue]

I kept having to stop because I was so out of shape and out of breath! :o ).

Sue GOOD FOR YOU, too! You know, that kind of soreness always feels kind of good to me because I know I've earned it :p . Or maybe I'm a masochist.



Me too! It took a few times for me to get through some of the cardio videos. And I had to stop and rewind because I'm not that coordinated :D

I hope you're not a masochist, because I feel the same way!!

[Reenie]

Sue It does feel easier, but I have only just started using it this week! I don't know that I should have to up the weights already...
stop and rewind because I'm not that coordinated

Me, too! :o :p

No Firm for me today... it's a rest day. :D

[Sue]

Even though I was tired, I came home and did Aerobic Body Shaping with Allie :)

One good thing about exercising after work is I'm usually not hungry afterwards. I'll usually just drink a Slimfast shake to get something in me. I don't know what I'll do tomorrow... I'd like to exercise in the morning, so I'll need something a little shorter. I think I have a 30 min aerobic video, I'll have to check.

[Reenie]

Good job, Sue! How do you like Allie? She's my favorite. I would like to work out before work, but it just isn't realistic for me: I have to leave for work by 7:15, I sweat pretty heavily when working out, and I have trouble waking up; combine all of those things, and working out in the morning just doesn't work for me, no matter how much I'd like it to. So I am always very impressed by people who can do it! In the summer time when I'm off (I'm a teacher), I like to work out pretty soon after waking up.

Today, I did CardioSculpt with Allie again. 395 calories burned, so maybe I wasn't working as hard as I could have on Monday.

[Sue]

Man, my legs are killing me!! Took today off, but will do some cardio tomorrow.

I like Allie too! I have some of the older DVD's and it's so funny to see how they used to look... can you say implants :)

Once I get back into the habit, getting up in the morning isn't a problem, I like getting it over and out of the way. I don't have to leave until 7:45, so getting up at 5:30 gives me time to walk the dogs and get in a workout. I get home from work about 6, so it's hard to carve out an hour or so to work out with everything else I need to do.

[Sue]

Did Ultimate Calorie Blaster again... well, only 30 min :o I got really tired and stopped, but it's something. I'll give it another go tomorrow.

[Reenie]

Sorry your legs hurt! And don't feel :o about doing 30 minutes of Ultimate Calorie Blaster... much better than 0 minutes! :D
I get home from work about 6, so it's hard to carve out an hour or so to work out with everything else I need to do.

See, that's the good thing for me because I usually get home around 4-4:30 and I just try to do it right away. I'd have to get up by 5 a.m. at the latest if I wanted to work out in the morning, and I just don't think my body knows that hour! :p Our school is on three teaching schedules due to overcrowding (7a-1p, 8a-2p, or 9a-3p). I have always had the "late" schedule which is a blessing for me, and this year, I have an overtime class, so I have to start an hour earlier than I'm used to... but I swear that if I am on a 9-3 next year, I am totally going to keep getting up when I do and work out in the mornings!

[Reenie]

CardioSculpt again today. 300 calories burned; I was totally not into it and just sort of going through the motions (plus, I cut out the abs section, so about 6 minutes off). I am starting AF and I feel sooooooo lazy. I am glad just to have burned anything! :p

I plan on curling up with my book as much as possible this weekend, I think.

[Foley42]

Me: Lindsay/24
Using The Firm since: I've had it for a year, but used it less than 10 times.
Why I use The Firm: I need to get my butt off the couch!
Why I love The Firm: upbeat, you can use in it in the privacy of your home
Firm Stuff I own: TransFirmer and 4 DVDs

[Sue]

Welcome Lindsay!!

Nothing today, had a birthday party tonight. Tomorrow will probably be some more cardio.

[Firm Believers]

Updated :)

Welcome Foley42!

[Sue]

Made it through UCB today!

Tomorrow I'm going to plan out my weeks videos so I have a nice balance. I need to definitely do some ab work :)

[cocoa_femme]

Hi all. I've been busy with work, and the baby, so I haven't had a chance to post. But, I'll be back on Monday with an update.

Welcome, Lindsay!

[Reenie]

Welcome, Foley42!

Sue Good for you on the UCB!

cocoa femme I'll be excited to hear your progress. Do you have Monday off, too?

I did AbSculpt again today. Squeezed every inch doubly hard since I skipped the abs section of CardioSculpt yesterday. Tomorrow, I am doing BodySculpt. Even though I've had this set of videos (BSS I) since January of 2004, I've only attempted that particular video once :o ; I was easily discouraged because the instructor went (I felt) extremely fast and had poor cueing. But I didn't give her a fair chance, I think. I've been psyching myself up for it, so I hope I won't wimp out with it tomorrow. I will let you know how it goes!

[Lily]

Me: Erica/27
Using The Firm since: Just ordered it online.
Why I use The Firm: To lose my baby weight.
Firm Stuff I own: Excercise Ball & DVD's
Favorite Firm Instructor: Not Sure Yet
Favorite Firm Video: Not Sure Yet
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: -1.5 so far

[lbs27]

Hi all,

I'd love to join! I'm not a morning person, but that is when I do my exercise, so I usually ride a stationary bike in the mornings during the week and do The Firm on the weekends. I do it mostly because I miss aerobics classes at a gym, though I don't keep track of calories burned or inches, etc. I just got Jiggle Free Abs, which I love --some of the moves are the same as other videos but some are different -- it's taught by Allie. I like the Transfirmer series better than the Fanny Lifter series, and I totally ditto someone's earlier comments about the implants. There is a HUGE (;) ) difference between early videos and the Transfirmer series!

Today I did the Ultimate Calorie Blaster. Tomorrow is CardioSculpt from the Transfirmer series, and Monday is riding the bike and Jiggle free abs -- since I have off!


Me: lbs27/32
Using The Firm since: Um, can't remember, I think December 04 for the regular series and I bought the Transfirmer about a year after that, I think
Why I use The Firm: Used to go to the gym for aerobics classes and stopped when I changed jobs. I love this because the moves are a lot more like classes than other tapes I've tried
Favorite Firm instructor: I like Allie, but not all of her tapes. I also like Stephanie and Lisa
Favorite Firm Video: AbScuplt, Jiggle Free Abs, Ultimate Calorie Blaster, Supercharged Sculpting

[Foley42]

Wow, lots of posts here today! Hi Erica and Lori!

QOTD: Do you use weights when they are optional?

DH has a set of 20 lb weights. I probably need to invest in some 5 and 10 lb ones.

[lbs27]

Hi Foley42!

I'm not sure what you mean by optional weights? I use weights whenever it's called for. For me, light=3lbs, med=5 and heavy=8. I find that the 8lbs is definitely heavy enough for when heavy is called for (especially for the leg presses, the firm's "signature move", which are a bi*ch!). Personally, I think I would have a hard time with 10lb ones! What do others think?

[Foley42]

I'm not sure what you mean by optional weights? I use weights whenever it's called for.
Can't remember which video it is, but they say that you can use the recommended weights or you don't have to use any. Since I didn't have any (the last time I used it), I didn't use any. But my arms were still sore the next day even though no weights were used.

[Sue]

Welcome lbs27 & Lily!

QOTD: Do you use weights when they are optional?

I have a set of 5, 8 and 12 pound dumbells that I use. When I am first starting, I use the ends of the Sculpting Stick as my light weights. Once I've been doing the vid's consistently, I can move up in weights pretty quickly. Like lbs27 said, those leg presses can be a bi*ch, so sometimes I use the 8's, or I'll move down to the 8's if the 12's are getting too heavy. I also tend to build up leg muscles fairly quickly, so don't like to go too heavy with legs. I almost always use heavier weights for the upper body moves, I don't mind if I bulk up a little there.

[Firm Believers]

Updated :)

Welcome Lily and lbs27!

[Reenie]

Welcome Lily and lbs27!

QOTD: Do you use weights when they are optional?
I think what you're talking about, Foley42, is when weights are optional for beginners. What I would suggest is doing the videos without the weights until you don't hurt, then moving up to the weights. How many pounds are specified for your videos? I have been using BSS I and they suggest starting with 3, 5, and 8 pound dumb bells once you are comfortable using weights at all. I only needed to work out a couple of times before I was ready for the weights, and I followed their numbers. But I am now thinking of adding 10 and 12 pound dumbbells to my equipment. As other posters have said, there are some areas of my body that just seem naturally stronger and others that seem weaker, so I think that I'll up the weights perhaps not in pyramid but by my own "strength" in that area, if that makes sense. And you won't get the "sculpt" results (building of muscle) that is The Firm's motto unless you use weights of some kind.

[Reenie]

I weighed in today and I am -3.8 pounds and -1.8% body fat for this year! :D I am so happy! I'm getting excited for February 1 when I will take all of my measurements.

[Sue]

I weighed in today and I am -3.8 pounds and -1.8% body fat for this year! :D I am so happy! I'm getting excited for February 1 when I will take all of my measurements.

Awesome Reenie! Sunday is WI for WW and I was down 1.2, not as much as I had hoped for :( I'm thinking the big meal I had last night may have something to do with it, because all during the week I was averaging at least 2 lbs. I am also due for AF this week, so I hope it's just some water retention :)

I should really take my measurements too, I can tell from the way my clothes fit, but it'd be nice to see the actual inches lost. How do you figure out your body fat %?

[lbs27]

I'm so glad to see I'm not the only one who thinks the leg presses are hard. It's weird, I've been doing these videos, once or twice a week for around 2 years now and they're STILL hard! One thing I don't like is when the videos are light on the variety of the aerobics. For example, the cardiosculpt from the Transfirmer series is good b/c it's weights and cardio, but I hate the cardio/aerobics part b/c there are few moves and it's repetitive (i.e. same pattern 5 times in a row). I guess I make myself do that one because I know the alternating weights thing is good, but I find myself doing the ultimate calorie blaster more when I want just good aerobics. I love the Super charged sculpting, but while I know muscle helps in metabolism, I tend to get bulky and not in a good way, so I'm always worried about doing too much weight. However, after the holidays and judging from the scale this morning, I need to do something!

[Reenie]

I should really take my measurements too, I can tell from the way my clothes fit, but it'd be nice to see the actual inches lost. How do you figure out your body fat %?

Sue I have a special scale that measures weight, body fat percentage, and hydration percentage. Specifically, it is this exact model from this seller on eBay (http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-GLASS-WATER-BODY-FAT-BATHROOM-SCALE-MONITOR-SCALES_W0QQitemZ130068769186QQihZ003QQcategoryZ331 66QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem), although I know there are WW models and other brands as well. Basically, you put in your height, age, and gender (which you only have to do once... mine saves the info for up to 12 different users, I think). The way it works is that it has metal where you are supposed to stand (people who have pacemakers should NOT use these devices), and when you stand on it, it sends a little electric current through your body (you can't feel it at all). I guess the wave travels faster through muscular tissue, slower through fatty tissue, and it determines your body fat percentage for you based on the speed by which the current travels through your body. Here's another page that may describe it a little more in depth and better than I just did (http://exercise.about.com/cs/weightloss/a/bodyfat.htm). And measuring really has helped me because there are times when the scale just doesn't budge but my inches do. FWIW, I always weigh and measure first thing in the AM after emptying my bladder and before consuming anything.

lbs27 Aren't the leg presses worth it, though? My thighs are pretty darn close to rock solid (thanks to The Firm), and I can feel them getting stronger! :)

[Sue]

That scale is pretty cool! I may have to look into one...

FWIW, I always weigh and measure first thing in the AM after emptying my bladder and before consuming anything.
Me too. I want to be as light as possible :D

[Reenie]

I did Body Sculpt with Jen Carmen (http://www.amazon.com/o/ASIN/B00008LE01/ref=s9_asin_image_1/102-4355701-1263319) from BSS I today. I was kinda scared because I tried it before and was intimidated by her in the warm up (she cues well, just needs to cue a little sonner, I think). Anyway, I got through it, although I did have to stop after 12 reps on a few sets (rather than doing the full 16). And wow! There are some areas of my body that need serious toning (good thing there are so many different tapes!).

I wore my heart rate monitor although I wasn't sure it would be useful since it's more of a strength video than a cardio video, but I still burned 295 calories in 48 minutes, so I know I was working HARD with those weights! :D

[Reenie]

Did CardioSculpt again today. Burned 355 calories. :)

[Foley42]

How do you know how many calories you burned?

[Reenie]

How do you know how many calories you burned?

I have this heart rate monitor by PolarUSA (http://polarusa.com/Products/fseries/f4.asp?cat=consumer). I got it at Sports Authority last year; it was kinda expensive (I think ~$75), but it is worth it to me.

[Foley42]

Thanks Reenie. I've been wanting to purchase something similar. I'll need to get my first paycheck though :)

[Scoutesina]

Ooh, can I join? I've fallen off the wagon but used The Firm last year. I have an injury at the moment but would like to work myself back into The Firm routine. I miss the endorphins and getting to dance around!


Me: Scoutesina/33
Using The Firm since: Used it from Jan.-July 2005, am trying to get back to it at least a couple times a week
Why I use The Firm: The tapes helped me lose 35 lbs. over about 8 months last year. I've kept it off with walking, but I need to get back to weight-bearing exercise, especially tummy and upper arm toning.
Firm Stuff I own: I'm such a cheapskate, and I'm adamant that being healthy doesn't have to be costly. I bought 7 or 8 Firm tapes off half.com (thanks to a heads-up from my pal Reenie--most were about 99 cents plus $3 shipping). I use my trusty ten-year-old Denise Austin step instead of the Fanny Lifter, a broomstick and 3-, 5-, and 10-lb. hand weights instead of the Sculpting Stick. I don't have any of the newer Transfirmer series tapes so I don't know how/if I could improvise those.
Favorite Firm Instructor: the blonde lady with the Southern accent. It's been so long, I can't remember her name :o
Favorite Firm Video: I have some of the older ones but can't remember the names of my favorites. My least favorite is a really, really old one that's all arm-work, but sadly, that is what I need most.
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: holding steady so far. I want to gain muscle. I'm currently at 28% body fat.

[Jill1228]

I didn't see this thread until now! Cool beans! :D

Me: Jill
Using The Firm since: on and off since 1999 (now back on dammit)
Why I use The Firm: It is NOT boring and it is a great timesaver. Oh yeah if you stick with it, "results, results that you can see"--Susan Harris
Why I love The Firm: I can do it in the privacy of my home. The instructors are not barbie dolls. It is NOT a fad
Firm Stuff I own: Every damn thing the FIRM has ever put out. Including old school rotation calendars, VHS, DVDs, catalogs, books
Favorite Firm Instructor: Tracie Long and Allie
Favorite Firm Video: Maximum Body Sculpting with Tracie
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: haven't done measurements yet. I need all the help I can get
Miscellaneous Information: in 2000 I did a pilgrimage to the FIRM. Took classes and met instructors

Gonna read the rest of this thread after my workout. I think I will do FIRM Vol 2 (an OLD SCHOOL ONE)

[Jill1228]

Right now since I am re-beginning (again), I do not use weights on some of the exercises (like lower body stuff)

Wow, lots of posts here today! Hi Erica and Lori!

QOTD: Do you use weights when they are optional?
.

[Reenie]

Welcome, Scoutesina (I hope you didn't feel forced to join :o ) and APhiJill!

I did my CardioSculpt again today. Burned 300. Not great, but okay considering that I started working out just after 8 p.m.

QOTD: Do you feel (or know, if you have a heart-rate monitor) that you work out better/harder at a particular time of the day?
For me, it seems like right after I get off of work is my best bet. If I do it in the morning (uh, on the days when I don't have work since I could NOT get myself out of bed an extra hour early to work out :p ), it's decent (again, I have trouble waking up, and I am fairly groggy for a whle), and if I work out too late (say, after 7:30 p.m.), it is just terrible. Am I just tired, or could this be an actual phenomenon?

[Firm Believers]

Updated :)

Welcome Scoutesina and APhiJill!

[Reenie]

the blonde lady with the Southern accent. It's been so long, I can't remember her name
Scoutesina Is it Lisa Kay (http://www.collagevideo.com/DVD-covers/7141.jpg)? I like her, too. She is so polite and kind of calm or something nice and gentle. My body fat was 27.9% at the start of the year, so I'm now down to 26.1%, and I will be THRILLED when it is in the healthy range (20-24%, I think).

APhiJill Glad you found us!
in 2000 I did a pilgrimage to the FIRM. Took classes and met instructors
OMGosh, how did you manage to find out about this? I would LOVE to do that! :o Was it so fun?!

[Jill1228]

Thanks for the welcome! i used to be on a FIRM email mailing list and the group did a trip. it was a blast. Looking at the pictures, i was ashamed of how big I was. hell, now I wish I could only be so fat. I put on quite a bit of weight in the past 5 years and I want to get rid of it, dammit.

Here are pix from the trip when I was doing the FIRM on a regular basis.
This is after Allie whipped my azz in a PT session.

If you are wondering about the height...I am 5'7

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y132/APHIJill/firmtrippix5.jpg

Before taking a class with Jen Carman
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y132/APHIJill/firmtrippix3.jpg

Some of the instructors. The guy in the front is a co creator of the FIRM. Anna Benson's ex husband
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y132/APHIJill/firmtrippix6.jpg

In front of the sign
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y132/APHIJill/firmtrippix4.jpg

before a class
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y132/APHIJill/firmtrippix.jpg

After a class
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y132/APHIJill/firmtrippix2.jpg

to only START looking like that again....

[Scoutesina]

Reenie - No pressure--I'm happy to join. I need motivation. Now if only I could get my stupid hip healed. I'm going to try to do Ab Sculpt and the old arm-tape this weekend since as I remember the hips aren't involved.

Yes, Lisa Kay is the one! I've never heard an aerobics instructor say things like, "Stretch a little farther this time, please." There's something about it...she's so polite, you don't want to let her down. :D

APhiJill - Those pics are so awesome! I had no idea you could do such a thing. Must've been kind of like meeting movie stars to see all the instructors in person. :cool:

QOTD: I don't have a heart rate monitor, but for me, the best times of the day are between 5:00 and about 9:00 p.m. I'm kind of a night owl, and I have started workouts as late as 8:00 p.m. before and enjoyed them. The only thing is, then it takes me awhile to wind down afterwards, so I prefer doing it earlier if possible--like you said, right after work is best, before I've had a chance to settle in. I've worked out in the morning on the weekends out of necessity (not crazy early--around 10:00), but I don't feel like I'm really awake enough in the mornings to give it my all. I wish I were a morning person and could just jump up at 6:00 a.m. and get it done with...but not in this lifetime!

[Scoutesina]

You guys inspired me--I did Firm Parts: Upper Body last night.
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/143/362585870_99362a2573_m.jpg
If I'm reading the Roman numerals correctly, the tape was made in 1993, but it seems a lot older. All old-school instructors who are long gone from the Firm series now, and the attire--great comic relief. The pic on the cover is not representative--the ones on the tape were much worse (think g-string bodysuits with weird-colored tights worn beneath :eek: ). Mostly an anaerobic workout, but it was so nice to get back to it and feel those old endorphins again. And the little mini-lecture at the end about how most people over 35 gain 1.5 lbs. of fat a year and lose 1 lb. of muscle made me feel bad for slacking on weight training these past few months.

[Reenie]

APhiJill I love those pics! I wanna go!!!! I must investigate and learn if they still do those. Maybe I'm a dork, but if they still do them, I am TOTALLY scheduling a trip for this summer. :p Yes, thank you for posting your height, because you look extremely tall in those pics, when in fact, you are I think THE most average height for American women. They must all be really short, huh? My body type is most like Allie's (when she's curvier, like in BSS I, the rotation I'm using this month), which is probably one of the reasons why I like her the best. :p

Scoutesina GOOD FOR YOU! :) I'm glad the peer pressure is positive.

I'm finding it positive, too. I really didn't want to work out on Wednesday night, but I just didn't want to let you all down.

I did Ab Sculpt again today. Squeezed everything as hard as I could. I have one more week with BSS I and then I will move on to BSS II. I'll be glad for a new rotation, even though I'm not sick of this one by any means.

In related good news, I got FOUR compliments from four different colleagues today regarding my weight/physique. That made me feel really good. Except that I never know what to say, so I usually just say thank you if it's a comment, or "Yep, I'm working on it," if people ask.

[Jill1228]

Yup, just say THANK YOU or I am working on it. I have a prob with that too. One thing I always say when doing these workouts...modify if you need to! I use a dowel with leg presses. If it is high impact, I will do low. If I am doing lunges on a non tranFIRMER dvd, I will use the damn incline

speaking of working out..I need to get my butt in gear and do a tape.

FIRM Upper body was spliced from all the FIRM classics tapes. it was spliced in 1993 but the clips are from the tapes that started in 1986 or whenever they put out the Torture Tape with Susan Harris

I started to do FIRM Basics Abs Buns and thighs. I got 15 minutes done but I wasn't really feeling like doing it. However, I didn't let myself off the hook. I got my IPod, put in Leslie Sansone's Walk away the pounds and muted the TV :D I did 18 minutes of that. So since I got at least 30 minutes of exercise today, the day was not a wash! :D

[Reenie]

How are you doing, ladies?! :) I did the lower body portion of Body Sculpt today and Ab Sculpt, too. Burned 322 calories.

GOOD FOR YOU, APhiJill! I think it's much better to do something than nothing! :D

[lbs27]

I did AbSculpt today too! :) Before that, I did Ultimate Calorie Blaster from the Transfirmer series, I love that one. Tomorrow, hopefully Aerobic Body Shaping from the Transfirmer series-I don't love that one, but I try to do it every Sunday, which unfortunately makes me cranky until I've finished it. :p I do like weekends where I don't have too much to do other than clean, so I get in a Firm workout on both days!

[Reenie]

GOOD JOB, lbs27! :)

I haven't worked out yet today, but I will be doing the entire tape of Body Sculpt. One more week with BSS I and I'm moving on! :) I'll come back and edit this post with my calories burned. ETA: burned 330 calories. :)

So even though I haven't worked out yet, I wanted to come in to post my weekly update: so far this year, my stats are -5.6 lbs. and -2.4% body fat. :D Ten more days and I'll measure, too! That should be fun to see!

[bamboo]

Hi- I have a question about the FIRM systems that I'm hoping someone can help me with. Before my wedding I got the Fanny Lifter and three FIRM DVDs- the Ab Sculpt, Cardio Sculpt and Body Sculpt set. I used them and really liked them, and am interested in getting back into using the DVDs.

I'm really interested in the new TransFIRMer step and series, but I'm wondering a) if the new step is really necessary/worth it and b) where the best price is to get that set. Is there any way to do the new videos (modified), with the old step? I want to get a good workout and have a variety of choices, but since I already have one step and 3 DVDs, I'm hesitant to buy a pricey new system...

[Jill1228]

You can get the transfirmer at Target, overstock.com or newegg.com (I got mine from newegg for $40)

you can do the new DVD but you can't really do the incline steps. Right now I modify a lot so I don't put the step at an incline...unless I am doing lunges

Hope this helps

[Reenie]

bamboo As Jill said, you can do the new videos, but they'd have to be modified since the Fanny Lifter can't do the incline like the TransFIRMer can. But, if I were you, I would try getting a used TransFIRMer on eBay. I have had very good luck with that and scored Firm stuff very cheaply that way. (Obviously, just be careful of shipping charges). Let me know if you want to be added to our group! :)

[lbs27]

Thanks, Reenie! I did do Aerobic Body Shaping today. I really hate that damn tape. :p It just doesn't seem to get any easier, which I guess is good since that would mean I'm outgrowing it. Oh well.

I got my Transfirmer at Target about a year or so ago. i didn't want to buy another system either, but I think it was worth it, especially for the variety. I actually haven't gone back to BSSI, except for AbSculpt because I really like the Transfirmer Series.

[Scoutesina]

FIRM Upper body was spliced from all the FIRM classics tapes. it was spliced in 1993 but the clips are from the tapes that started in 1986 or whenever they put out the Torture Tape with Susan Harris


Ah, thanks Jill. That explains the outfits and hairstyles. I thought Susan Harris was very intense and scary!

Hmm, you guys are making me want the TransFIRMer, but I don't have a lot of storage space. Does it break down or get smaller at all?

[Sue]

Hmm, you guys are making me want the TransFIRMer, but I don't have a lot of storage space. Does it break down or get smaller at all?

It does fit inside each other... The green step fits inside the back of the blue step, so put together it's only as high as the blue part.

[Jill1228]

Let's talk about tall box climbs...how did you work up to doing those damn things? :confused:

Tall box climbs...not to be confused with the Leg press

Right now with my weight, the thought of doing them is making my knees scream. I was thinking work to do 2 or 3 and then increase from there

or should I start with a shorter box and do as many as i can

thoughts?

Speaking of leg press, I use no weights and support myself with a dowel on the side of the moving leg

[Reenie]

Hey, APhiJill, not to be dumb, but explain the difference between tall box climbs and leg press? :confused:

[Jill1228]

tall box climbs are done for cardio. to just get your heart rate up

leg press are the ones most likely to be done with weights

I hope ya know what I mean :)

[Reenie]

Okay, I did CardioSculpt again today; burned 351 calories. :)

APhiJill Gotcha. I would say work with the short box until you can do those effortlessly, then try working up with the tall box (2, then 3, etc., like you suggested). During the time when you're working up, just side-step or march when you can't do the climbs anymore. I know in the BodySculpt tape, Jen does sets of 16 for leg press and for some reason, they just kill (I can do 12 just fine in Allie's video, but for some reason, when I'm doing Jen's, I start feeling like it's way too hard after 8 :o ). So, I do as many as I can and then just walk around in a circle with the weights on my shoulders or at my sides until its time for the next move.

[lbs27]

I agree with Reenie. The tall box climbs are hard and definitely something to work up to. I think I would start with a lower box and work up to it. There is a definite difference between those and the leg presses, I think the leg presses, hard as they may be, are not something you can do on a smaller step, you'd just have to do less and/or drop the weights. I'm pretty sure in some of the videos, they say to use a smaller step for some of the stepping, um, steps. :D So, I would think the tall box climbs fall into that category. Good luck!

[bamboo]

Me: Bre/28
Using The Firm since: About 6 months before my wedding (2004), and just started again
Why I use The Firm: It felt like the best in-home workout of a bunch of workout tapes I tried back before my wedding. It's winter and rainy where I live right now, and I'm still holding onto some baby weight I want to lose.
Why I love The Firm: Good workouts, and I really like the mix of weights and cardio.
Firm Stuff I own: Fanny Lifter and Ab Sculpt/Cardio Sculpt/Body Sculpt DVDs
Favorite Firm Instructor: Allie
Favorite Firm Video: Cardio Sculpt, it's a little bit of everything
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: none yet!
Miscellaneous Information:

Okay, so I'm joining up. I did the Upper Body portion of the Body Sculpt video (with Jen), last night, and did Cardio Sculpt tonight. I kept up with the weights better than I thought I would, I guess slinging around a 23 pound toddler has kept my muscles in better shape than I thought :)

I think I'm going to hold off on getting the Transfirmer for now- I checked those sites but none of them seem to have the step anymore, just some of the DVDs. If I can stick with doing the videos I already have for a month, then I might treat myself to the new step+videos.

This may sound like a weird question, but do any of you have height issues with the Fanny Lifter? Or ideas for how I could adjust? I'm 6' tall, and the exercises that require being on all fours with your chest on the fanny lifter just don't work that well for me- my legs are much longer than the instructors' seem to be. In Cardio Sculpt there's one in particular, where you hold a small weight behind your knee and lift your leg up and across, and I just can't make that work since I can't hold the proper form they demonstrate. I just skip that piece, I'm just wondering if anyone else has that issue or and ideas?

[Foley42]

I'm calling myself out. Lindsay get your butt in gear and do The Firm tomorrow after work. Ok there I said it :o

[Jill1228]

I am calling myself out too! I printed out a rotation

Bre, welcome!

I'm calling myself out. Lindsay get your butt in gear and do The Firm tomorrow after work. Ok there I said it :o

[Reenie]

Welcome, bamboo! Regarding your question about your height, do you have a chair or stool that is taller? You're right that you should be doing those in the same form, and really, you just need something that is as tall as you legs from your knees to your hips. Heck, you could probably even stack a bunch of books up, but that would get old... Hey, Scoutesina, what do you do about it (she's about your height, I think, bamboo)?

Okay, Foley42 and APhiJill... you're going to do it today! No ifs, ands or buts! :)

[Sue]

I've been such a slacker lately... Tomorrow morning I AM getting up to work out.

[Scoutesina]

In Cardio Sculpt there's one in particular, where you hold a small weight behind your knee and lift your leg up and across, and I just can't make that work since I can't hold the proper form they demonstrate. I just skip that piece, I'm just wondering if anyone else has that issue or and ideas?

I'm in the same boat, bamboo (I'm 5'11"). I also have a non-official step I use, so I didn't know if that was the problem. What I do is take the two cushions off my loveseat, stack them on the floor, and lay across those instead of the step. It's a bit squishier (and I have to pause the tape to get situated), but it works for the leg presses. It doesn't work well for the lateral arm raises (not sure if that's the right term) though, since that forces you to bear your weight in your torso rather than your arms, and I get all off-balance. For me, a chair would be too high, but if you had a low stool like Reenie said, it seems like that would be better and more stable.

I think eventually I will break down and buy the TransFIRMer. It seems like it could be stacked high enough to work. They sell it along with several DVDs or videos on the Firm Direct website for $60 (plus shipping, I assume). I did see the whole thing for sale on half.com, but my problem is I don't have a DVD player in my exercise room, and it seems like the tapes that go along with the TransFIRMer are harder to find than the DVDs.

[bamboo]

I do have some cushions I could put on top of the FL, that's a good idea. I also hadn't even thought of trying half.com for the Transfirmer- thanks!

Reenie I have the same problem with the leg presses- those 4 extra ones used to just kill me in Jen's video! Her whole lower body section is so tough- I haven't tried it since starting back up yet.

[Jill1228]

You mean no ifs ands or lifted fannies! :D

Welcome, bamboo! Regarding your question about your height, do you have a chair or stool that is taller? You're right that you should be doing those in the same form, and really, you just need something that is as tall as you legs from your knees to your hips. Heck, you could probably even stack a bunch of books up, but that would get old... Hey, Scoutesina, what do you do about it (she's about your height, I think, bamboo)?

Okay, Foley42 and APhiJill... you're going to do it today! No ifs, ands or buts! :)

[Jill1228]

One modification I do too for hover squats, is I don't use a fanny lifter. I use a chair without arms or my old school 17 inch firm box. that extra 3 inches makes a difference....

[Reenie]

Okay, Sue, tomorrow's your day! You can do it! :D

Scoutesina My mom got me the TransFIRMer for my b-day last year (I asked for it), and since I use an old TV/VCR combo for my workouts (it's a little TV in the basement, the 13" or so?), I requested VHS. She got it directly from their site. Don't know the cost, but just so you know...and yeah, it comes with multiple videos. The only thing is that Jiggle Free Arms and Jiggle Free Buns didn't come with my package (it did include Jiggle Free Abs), and I want those! I can't find them on VHS, only DVD. So I'm thinking I might have to break down and attach a DVD player to the TV if I wanna get DVDs (plus, all of their cool newest workouts are only available on DVD.... poo!).

bamboo Glad to know I'm not the only one whose fanny gets kicked by it. ;) It's funny because that's a strength video, but I burn SO many calories when I do it, just as many as Cardio Sculpt, often!

APhiJill
You mean no ifs ands or lifted fannies!
I meant no ifs, ands, or butts. :p

[Firm Believers]

Updated :)

Welcome, bamboo!

[Jill1228]

I did Complete Aerobic and Weight Training with Emily

Modifications. for the step portion, I use my club step (just the platform-4 inches) and have it turned vertically

dunno if anyone is familiar with this DVD but the tricep pushups....

dude WTF? :confused:

[Scoutesina]

Reenie - Yeah, I think I'm going to have to do the same. I know you can get a simple DVD player for relatively cheap...my problem is I don't know if I can figure out how to get one to work with the ancient TV/VCR combo I use!

My boss at work has talked about getting one of those DVD-R/VCR combos so departments could convert all their VHS tapes to DVD (then I could buy the DVDs and borrow it to transfer the DVDs to VHS), but I think they have built-in copyright protectors. Allie has a new Cardio Dance DVD out that I want. So frustrating to be technologically challenged!

Jill - I don't think I have that workout, but in general I think tricep pushups are evil. I would pick the tricep dips (using the step) over the on-the-floor sideways pushups any day. Those things are just weird and awkward.

I did Ab Sculpt with Lisa Kay last night, though I followed Libby and stuck strictly with the beginner's moves. Baby steps. :D

[Sue]

I did Complete Aerobic and Weight Training with Emily



That's on the agenda for this weekend :) Not going to get to it tonight, I have a headache the size of Texas and it's kicked my ass :(

Wanted to drop this tidbit off... Looks like there will be 2 new videos coming late spring.

Bootcamp — Maximum Calorie Burn DVD
Led by Alison Davis and featuring The FIRM Master Instructors Allie DelRio Pointer, Sue Mi Powell, Kelsie Daniels, & Robyn Johnson

This 50-minute ultra fat-burning workout combines bootcamp training with cardio drills. As you jump, hop, squat and lunge your way through this high-energy workout, you’ll build muscle, speed and agility to see results three times faster than doing cardio alone.

If you want to go beyond basic cardio and get results faster, Bootcamp — Maximum Calorie Burn is the workout you’ve been waiting for. It’s fitness at its best with bootcamp conditioning basics and plyometric exercises used by elite athletes to take their performance to the next level. The moves are easy to follow so that anyone can do them and see immediate results.

Power Sculpt Workout Kit – with 3-in-1 Sculpting Stick
Led by Allie DelRio Pointer & featuring The FIRM Master Instructors Tina Smalley & Alison Davis

This 20-minute total body sculpting workout burns fat and shapes your body in no time flat! No muscle group is left untouched with The FIRM’s signature 4-limb exercises and just one simple tool—the new FIRM 3-in-1 Sculpting Stick.

Get flab-free and sculpted all in one super efficient, time-saving workout by using your stick! The all new design features 3 equal segments, each weighing 3 pounds.

Visible results are in your future with Power Sculpt Workout and the new 3-in-1 Sculpting Stick.

I'm not sure how this sculpting stick is different from the other one though :confused:

[Reenie]

APhiJill GOOD FOR YOU! :) I have that video, but I have yet to actually do it. :o It's in my March-April rotation that I've created for myself. :p

Scoutesina GOOD FOR YOU, too! :) I am doing Ab Sculpt on Friday this week. I saw the Cardio Dance with Allie (I kinda want it just because its her, but I am really not a good dancer, very uncoordinated. Remember those other workout videos you suggested to me? I bought them but gave up because I couldn't keep up and get the moves right. :o )

Sue Hope you'll feel better soon! I have read about that video, too. I think it's the same sculpting stick. If that's the case, Firm will sell the video on their website without the stick, for certain. I want the stability ball, resistance band, and pilates kits (but alas, we come back to my problem of no DVD player in the basement... looks like I'm gonna have to suck it up, as Scoutesina suggested).... But I am not buying any new Firm stuff for a while because I am going to use it as a reward for myself after six months of following my work-out schedules.

Now, if I do that, is there a way for me to transfer my VHS to DVD so I don't have to re-buy eveything?

I did CardioSculpt with Allie today. Last time in this rotation, so I won't be seeing that one for several months... funny that I didn't think about that until after it was over. Anyway, I burned 365 calories. :)

[lbs27]

Yay, I'm so impressed with AJPhil, Scoutesina and Reenie! Way to go!

I haven't done the CardioSculpt in ages, hmm...maybe this weekend. Though I HATE those whatever you call them where you lay on the step with the weight behind your left. WTF is that!?! I spend so much time trying to keep the weight from falling out that I'm sure I'm not getting anything out of it. The thought of doing those is what's keeping me from going back to that DVD. :o Sad, I know.

No Firm for me until Saturday probably, though I did make myself get up early today and got on the bike (normally would have skipped it since I had to be at work early). So that's something.

Sue, those videos sound great. I've been thinking about getting a sculpting stick video-I used to love that part when I took gym classes, so maybe I'll try this new one when it comes out. :)

[Scoutesina]

Now, if I do that, is there a way for me to transfer my VHS to DVD so I don't have to re-buy eveything?

Reenie - In my case, I was thinking if I could plug a DVD player into the old TV/VCR combo, then I could use either VHS tapes or DVDs, although in the long run it would be better to transfer everything to DVD since tapes disintegrate after awhile.

I'm AV-challenged, but I think there is a machine you can buy that will transfer VHS tapes to DVD. I think it's fairly expensive (~$200?). If my U buys one, I will test it out and let you know. Although I think that would be legal (since you bought the tape--it's not like you're making a bunch of copies for your friends or anything), there may still be some kind of built-in copyright protector that prevents you from recording any store-bought tape. :rolleyes:

lbs27 - Thanks! I don't like those things where you hold the weight behind your knee either--there's so uncomfortable. In general I just do the exercises without the weights bc I find them pretty tough as is! If you do get a Sculpting Stick, I believe the freeweight part of the SS might be easier to use for those exercises since it appears to be just a cylinder (I don't have one, so I don't know for sure). My free weights are barbell-shaped, so they just don't fit well in that crook behind the knee.

[Jill1228]

I was reading on a fitness board..these might be worth checking out

USB ware (http://www.usb-ware.com/ads-dvd-xpress.htm)


here was another post

There is a device called "Go Video" that purports to copy protected media. Last time I looked (admittedly a while ago) they sold it at Best Buy, right by the DVD recorders.

And not all of them are copy protected. I'd try first because you get the better copy without having to use the decoding device.


hope this helps

[Jill1228]

Today on the menu was Maximum Cardio burn with Abs...Allie's DVD

Some of the moves I will still have to figure out but I winged it

[Reenie]

Thanks, lbs27. :) I don't know what those are called, but I can feel the burn on those, so I kinda like them. I always make sure to open my leg, then put the weight right in the crook of my knee and fold my calf in until I don't need to hold on, if that makes sense. I don't have any trouble with it falling out that way.

Scoutesina and APhiJill Thanks for that info. Eh, I'll see what I can do. I'm not in a huge hurry or anything. Good job on the Maximum Cardio, APhiJill. :)

I did Ab Sculpt today. :)

[Jill1228]

Resting today. This morning I started the first period since my miscarriage last month and these cramps are kicking my azz

[Reenie]

APhiJill It sounds like resting is in order. I hope that you're feeling a little better. I'm really sorry that you had a m/c.

[Reenie]

I did Body Sculpt (Upper body portion only) and Ab Sculpt today. Burned 140 calories. :)

And with today, I finished my BSS I program! If you remember, I decided not to wear my heart-rate monitor on Ab Sculpt only days since it hurt my spine the first time, but I burned about 50 calories with it the first time, so I approximated that I burned that many each time that I did just that video for the day. Look at my totals, I burned around 5055 calories through exercise over the last four weeks! (http://www.constantchatter.com/forum/showpost.php?p=1137660&postcount=7) :D I'm so happy. And I didn't skip a single workout... there were a couple of days when I wanted to but I wouldn't allow myself because I had to be accountable for it here. :)

[Reenie]

Now for my new rotation.

For these four weeks (January 28-February 24), I am using BSS II and a modification of its deluxe schedule (because Tuesdays and Thursdays are still totally impossible for me right now):
Jan. 28: Total Sculpt Plus Abs BURNED 380 CALORIES!
Jan. 29: Maximum Cardio Burn Plus Abs BURNED 393 CALORIES!
Jan. 31: Upper Body Sculpt BURNED 141 CALORIES!
Feb. 2: Complete Aerobics and Weight Training BURNED 430 CALORIES!
Feb. 3: Firm Abs DONE! (only half, though... burned 33 calories)
Feb. 5: Maximum Cardio Burn Plus Abs BURNED 438 CALORIES!
Feb. 7: Complete Aerobics and Weight Training BURNED 380 CALORIES!
Feb. 9 rescheduled to Feb. 11: Maximum Cardio Burn Plus Abs only half... BURNED 287 CALORIES!
Feb. 10: Total Sculpt Plus Abs BURNED 340 CALORIES!
Feb. 11 rescheduled to February 12: Firm Abs DONE! (burned approx. 60 calories)
Feb. 12: Total Sculpt Plus Abs BURNED 361 CALORIES!
Feb. 14: Upper Body Sculpt BURNED 147 CALORIES!
Feb. 16: Maximum Cardio Burn Plus Abs BURNED 393 CALORIES!
Feb. 17: Complete Aerobics and Weight Training BURNED 387 CALORIES!
Feb. 18: Firm Abs DONE! (burned approx. 60 calories)
Feb. 19: Complete Aerobics and Weight Training BURNED 407 CALORIES!
Feb. 21: Complete Aerobics and Weight Training BURNED 385 CALORIES!
Feb. 23: Maximum Cardio Burn Plus Abs BURNED 406 CALORIES!
Feb. 24: Upper Body Sculpt BURNED 135 CALORIES!

Total Sculpt Plus Abs (http://www.amazon.com/Firm-Total-Sculpt-Plus-Abs/dp/B0000C0FC4/sr=8-4/qid=1169940638/ref=sr_1_4/102-4355701-1263319?ie=UTF8&s=video) is with Jen Carman (http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000C0FC4.01._AA280_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg).

Maximum Cardio Burn Plus Abs (http://www.amazon.com/Firm-Body-Sculpting-System-Maximum/dp/B0000C0FCA/sr=1-1/qid=1169940804/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-4355701-1263319?ie=UTF8&s=dvd) is with Allie Del Rio (http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000C0FCA.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg).

Upper Body Sculpt (http://www.amazon.com/Firm-Upper-Body-Sculpt/dp/B0001KNHO0/sr=1-1/qid=1169941008/ref=sr_1_1/102-4355701-1263319?ie=UTF8&s=video) is with Janet Brooks (http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0001KNHO0.01._AA280_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg).

Complete Aerobics and Weight Training (http://www.amazon.com/Firm-Complete-Aerobics-Weight-Training/dp/B0000C0FC0/sr=1-4/qid=1169941141/ref=sr_1_4/102-4355701-1263319?ie=UTF8&s=video) is with Emily Welsh (http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000C0FC0.01._AA280_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg).

Firm Abs (http://www.amazon.com/Firm-Abs/dp/B0001KREGM/sr=1-1/qid=1169941234/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-4355701-1263319?ie=UTF8&s=dvd) is with Nancy Tucker (http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0001KREGM.01._AA240_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg).

This is the system that uses dumbells, the Fanny Lifter, and the Sculpting Stick. I'm excited for a new rotation, but I'm nervous, too! :p

[lbs27]

Reenie--wow! That's great! Thanks for posting your new rotation, I was actually coming in here to ask about BSSII. I don't have any videos from that one but my friend who does The Firm said she likes the two aerobic ones from that series. She hates the tall box climb and said that the second series doesn't have those (I actually don't mind these as much as other things). So, I was thinking about getting those videos, but wanted to see if they worked with the Fanny Lifter. I don't have the sculpting stick though.

Today I did Ultimate Calorie Blaster and then Jiggle Free Abs. Tomorrow is my usual Aerobic Body Shaping, but I'm thinking I might either do CardioSculpt or CardioSculpt Blaster (weights and step and only 30 minutes!) from BSSI instead. I'm really getting into doing The Firm both Saturday and Sunday instead of just Sunday, so I'd like to get some more videos in rotation.

[Reenie]

lbs27 I actually have a duplicate VHS of Maximum Cardio Burn with Allie (because I have bought a couple of Firm "lots" from eBay and ended up getting that one in with some other videos that I was seeking). Do you use VHS? If so, I would be happy to send it to you. Also, I don't know if you're trying to get the whole set of BSS II videos, but I have a duplicate VHS of Upper Body Sculpt as well, because I had ordered a different used video on Amazon and the woman sent me the wrong thing; when I emailed, she said just to throw it out, but I thought that was silly, so I am saving it for someone else who could use it. I don't know how well either of those videos work because I've never used them (having copies already), but if you want them, they're yours. You may be able to get a used sculpting stick on eBay or Amazon for a good price; I actually got my whole BSS II with videos for $14.99 with free shipping from some site, but it was a while ago and I can't remember which one. And also, you can use a dowel instead of the stick if you don't want to get one. Good job on today's workouts! :)

I also decided that I'm too impatient to wait until the end of the month to measure :p so I will measure tomorrow morning when I do my weekly weigh-in (I figured it was the best time having just finished a rotation and all ;) ). I can't wait to see what I learn!

[Jill1228]

Thanks reenie! I am still trying to regroup
I am laid up again today. i managed to run a few errands but i went back home and laid down.

I need to look into the HRM you have. Also looking at going back to Weight watchers. Getting rid of some weight before TTC will help.
Re: Rotations. I am doing the beginner one that is on the Firm club website

[Reenie]

Okay, just FYI, I found the site where I got my videos plus sculpting stick. It's Active Videos. (http://www.activevideos.com/instructors/thefirm.htm) If you scroll approx. 2/3 down the page, you will see (it's listed below Firm Body Sculpting System 2 Videos). Anyway, it looks like right now, they're doing a deal where you can get the sculpting stick plus the three main videos (Total Sculpt, Maximum Cardio Burn, and Complete Aerobics and Weight Training) for $8.95-VHS or $29.95-DVD. The only thing is, I don't know how much they're charging for shipping, and also, it's just the basic edition, not the deluxe (deluxe includes Upper Body Sculpt and Firm Abs). Still, $8.95 VHS for three videos and sculpting stick?! That's awesome, depending upon the shipping!

Jill ;) I have copied and pasted every single one of the Firm Clubhouse Specialty Calendars since January 2004 into a special file on my computer. I love looking at their rotations... I have myself all set up through mid-June. :p

So, today is the big day! I am starting a new rotation today, so I did all of my measurements to see the changes that have taken place in my body over the last four weeks! Since January 1, I am -6.8 lb, -2.7% Body Fat, -5.75 inches! :D :D :D I am thrilled. I lost every which way except for my thighs, where I gained .25 inch each (hopefully, it's muscle from all of those leg presses ;) ). Ta-DA!

[lbs27]

Hi Reenie!

Wow, congrats on the all of the losses! That's so great! I'm willing to bet your increase in thigh measurement is totally muscle--that's the first place I see it too, unfortunately. :D

Thanks so much for your offers too! Unfortunately, I was using VHS, but the VCR broke so I bought the DVDs of the ones I liked. I would actually be ok with just the basic addition, I have 2 Abs videos I like and a body scultping that I like too. So, the two aerobics videos, plus the stick would be perfect (I'd like to not buy another Lifter if at all possible). I'll start searching amazon and Ebay.

[Reenie]

lbs27 Thanks for the reassurance re: the thigh increase. ;) ETA: that link that I posted sells BSS 2 without the Fanny Lifter (so in total, it's the total sculpt video, the max cardio burn video, and complete aerobics video AND the sculpting stick). Still $29.95 for DVD version plus whatever shipping is. That's kinda high unless the shipping is super cheap since you can probably get it on eBay cheaper including the stick. *shrug*

I did Total Sculpt plus Abs from BSS 2 today. Burned 380 calories. I actually think I could burn more on that video if I could figure out the tricky footwork. :o That'll take some practice for me.

[lbs27]

Thanks Reenie, I will check that site out, plus Ebay. I did CardioScuplt from BSSI today. I had forgotten I guess how many moves were similar between this one and the aerobic body shaping of the Transfirmer series (and I'm guessing Allie's video from BSSII as well). I did ok, but I didn't feel like I worked as hard as I do with the Transfirmer videos, but I wanted something with weights, so it worked. :)

[Jill1228]

I think I might have to pump up the workouts to minimum 4 times a week. In addition to the rotation I could toss in some workouts that are all floor work or upper body, stretch or something like that.

After being laid up this weekend (and missing a workout day) I will be doing total sculpt plus abs

down 1.5# this week

[Lizzie Beth]

Me: Beth/32
Using The Firm since: used it for about 6 mos. until I got pg w/ my first daughter, Susannah
Why I use The Firm: It doesn't seem as cheesy as the others
Why I love The Firm: Good workouts, and I really like the mix of weights and cardio.
Firm Stuff I own: Fanny Lifter and the stick thingy
Favorite Firm Instructor: Allie
Favorite Firm Video: Cardio Sculpt
Total lbs/inches/body fat lost/gained in 2007: no idea
Miscellaneous Information: I had my second daughter, Kate, last November

Hi, y'all, I'm hoping to get myself back into the swing of things. I used the FIRM the year before I had my first child, and I think I was in pretty great shape. After I had Susannah and went back to work and dashed around trying to figure out how to balance the two, I completely forgot about taking care of myself. This fall I had Katie (they are 23 months apart) and I am taking advantage of my maternity leave to try and get back into shape. I've been jogging every other day, but that's pretty much it.

I had the videos, but our last VHS finally kicked off, and I suspect my DH tossed them along with the VHS player. So now I have to go find DVD's. I guess I'll take a look at ebay, etc.

The only real problem I have with the FIRM is that it kills my knees. I really pay attention to correct form, I don't think it's that. Bad knees run in my family, and mine crack and pop with pretty much every lunge and squat. I feel them a bit with the jogging, but not consistent soreness after, as I have had using the FIRM. Any suggestions? When I do the french press thing, it also feels like my elbows are popping out and pop back in when I pull my arms up. I think it's more a joint problem of mine than a problem with the firm, but I wondered if anybody's had the same problem and what they've done for it.

I really hadn't been worried about my weight until I stepped on a scale this past weekend (Pre-pg about 150, currently 181) and DH and I had 2 formal dinners in the last 2 weekends. I notice it the most in my bust area (I'm still breastfeeding, so I'm sure that will change eventually) everything else fairly pales in comparison, but my jeans don't fit, either. I know that if I don't get moving now, it will NOT get any better after I go back to work (May) so I need to get it done.

[Firm Believers]

Updated. :)

Welcome, Lizzie Beth!

[Reenie]

Welcome, Lizzie Beth! Congrats on your babies and good for you for being proactive and taking care of yourself before you have to get back into the swing of work!


After being laid up this weekend (and missing a workout day) I will be doing total sculpt plus abs...down 1.5# this week
Jill I did that one yesterday! That Jen, she makes you work! (BTW, I wasn't sure if you wanted me to post your lbs. lost to your member info on p. 1, but I went ahead and did it... if you want me to delete it, let me know :) ).

As for me:Today I did Maximum Cardio Burn plus Abs with Allie. Burned 393 calories. As I said yesterday, I think I could have actually burned more had I had the footwork down. Until yesterday, I hadn't done the Firm except BSS I videos in over a year, and I forgot how much trickier the footwork is in BSS II as opposed to BSS I. Left-footed me is hating it right now, but I guess I should just enjoy the challenge. I remember when I thought that the footwork in BSS I was hard. ;)

How are things going for you other ladies? :)

[Sue]

I'm still here, just been a little lazy... ok - a lot lazy :o I've pretty much accepted the fact that working out after work just ain't gonna happen, so 5:30am it is for me. I just have limited time, about 45 min., an hour if I push it, so I have to plan my workouts pretty well. Hopefully tomorrow morning I'll have something to update :D

[Jill1228]

It's all good Reenie! :)

Welcome beth!

here are my suggestions:
french press, use a lighter weight for a bit to build up strength. You might want to reduce your range of motion too.

I got knees from hell here and the shitload of extra weight does NOT help

use lighter weights (or no weights and reduce your range of motion)
leg press: see what they are doing and pause the tape and do them at the speed you are comfy at your own pace. if they do 16 and you are only comfy doing 8 with good form, it's all good. you will work up. Hope this helps

Reenie, I was having difficulty doing the ab work with Jen's workout so I did my own thing. i really have to strengthen my midsection

I am gonna toss a cardio tape in tomorrow and Wednesday I do Max cardio burn plus abs



Jill I did that one yesterday! That Jen, she makes you work! (BTW, I wasn't sure if you wanted me to post your lbs. lost to your member info on p. 1, but I went ahead and did it... if you want me to delete it, let me know :) ).

[Jill1228]

sue you have to pick a time that is good for you. I don't do 530 am for nobody!

[Sue]

sue you have to pick a time that is good for you. I don't do 530 am for nobody!
Believe me, that's not my time of choice either!! I'm too tired and hungry when I get home from work at night to do anything. Since I'm up at 5:30 to temp, I might as well get my butt out of bed!

[Reenie]

Hey, Sue, have you tried any of the Blaster Videos? They're for when you're short on time.... there's Cardio Sculpt Blaster (http://www.amazon.com/Firm-Cardio-Sculpt-Blaster/dp/B00008DDJC/sr=1-3/qid=1170123829/ref=pd_bbs_sr_3/102-4355701-1263319?ie=UTF8&s=dvd) with Lisa Kay and Body Sculpt Blaster (http://www.amazon.com/Firm-Boby-Sculpt-Blaster/dp/B00030DLLW/sr=1-1/qid=1170123943/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-4355701-1263319?ie=UTF8&s=dvd) with Nancy Tucker. Also, I have an old Firm specialty rotation calendar (from July of 2005) that features only videos that are 30-45 minutes in length. If you want, I'll e-mail you with the file (it's a Word document) as an attachment.

Jill I like to use the Lisa Kay AbSculpt from BSS I to strengthen my core. I'm not having so much trouble with my abs work, just my footwork. At least you can work on your abs... I'm dance-challenged for a lifetime. ;) :p

So you all are gonna think I'm off my rocker, but I e-mailed The Firm yesterday to tell them that I love their stuff and that they should make four new videos: one for each trimester of pregnancy and one for post-partum (and I said for the PP video that they could maybe incorporate baby). No, I don't have kids, nor am I pg. But hey, I thought that maybe they'll do it and I'll have myself all set up for when it is my time. ;) Anyway, I got a response! The response was very generic, "Thank you for your interest and the suggestion; I will pass along the idea." I did notice that the woman who e-mailed me back carbon copied another lady on the thing, so who knows? I really hope that they'll do it, how lame am I? lol :p

[Sue]

Thanks for the suggestions, Reenie. I tried to pick up a couple of the shorter videos a little while ago, so I have a couple. I'd love the rotation, I'll pm you my email address. Thanks :D

I think the pregnancy videos are a great idea! I'm surprised they have done any yet.

[Reenie]

Thanks for the suggestions, Reenie. I tried to pick up a couple of the shorter videos a little while ago, so I have a couple. I'd love the rotation, I'll pm you my email address. Thanks :D

I think the pregnancy videos are a great idea! I'm surprised they have done any yet.

Check your e-mail. :)

Yeah, I was working out and thinking, "Surely, they've thought of this before and decided against it for some reason [liability, restricted use of weights, restricted muscle focus groups, something?" But I couldn't think of anything that could really be that wild that a legal disclaimer at the beginning wouldn't fix (and they already have legal disclaimers at the beginning of every video, anyway); the only real problem I could come up with is that they'd maybe have to wait for Firm instructors to be pregnant to do it? I dunno...

[Sue]

Got it! Thanks so much :)

[Scoutesina]

Lizzie Beth - I would definitely modify, like Jill said, if you are in pain. The french presses don't hurt my elbows, but they also make mine sort of crack and it gives me the heebie-jeebies, so I just limit the range of motion and use light weights on those. As for your knees, I would definitely do more shallow squats and lunges till your leg muscles get built up. I have cracky weird knees too but found I have far fewer problems when I get my quads and hamstrings strong.

Reenie - I also think the pregnancy videos are a great idea. Can't hurt to ask. You should demand a percentage of the royalties if they do it. :p

My stupid hip injury got worse over the weekend, so I'm still supposed to keep off it. I did Ab Sculpt again last night and added in some of the intermediate moves. At least my dog has made progress. He just sat on the couch calmly watching me writhe around on the floor, rather than jumping around and trying to lick my face like he did the first couple times. :D

[Jill1228]

Girl, when God gave black folks rhythm, he passed me over! :D

I did a 45 minute walk today

Tomorrow is Max cardio burn plus abs

I wonder if your message was ccd to Cathy Sovde. She is one of the higher ups! Very nice lady
Jill I like to use the Lisa Kay AbSculpt from BSS I to strengthen my core. I'm not having so much trouble with my abs work, just my footwork. At least you can work on your abs... I'm dance-challenged for a lifetime

[Reenie]

Just flying by... did Upper Body Sculpt with Janet today. Not really an aerobic workout, though I did wear my monitor. Burned 141 calories.

[Jill1228]

I did maximum cardio burn plus abs.

i am still trying to figure out that damn "step and scoop" move

[bamboo]

Okay, I found a good deal on the Transfirmer+DVDs so I went ahead and got it and it came today. I did the Ultimate Calorie Blaster tonight.

I definitely worked up a sweat, but jeez the footwork seems complex. I remember feeling confused when I first started doing the Cardio Sculpt with Allie way back when (I don't know series names!), but this seems even more complicated. I would have gotten a much tougher workout if I had been able to actually do all the steps! So I think I'm going to alternate the new videos with old videos (at least for the cardio ones that involve learning a new step routine), so I can learn the new stuff while still getting a good workout in. Which Transfirmer videos does everyone like the best?

Also, man that Transfirmer step is big. Way more awkward to move around, but I felt like they dealt with that in the video by not having you move it around too much. So it wasn't a pain, just a surprise that it's really pretty big!

[Reenie]

I am so glad that you all don't think I'm completely nuts for doing that (and, Jill, the lady who was CC'd on the e-mail was not her; her name is Erin Warren).

And also, Jill Seriously, that Step and Scoop (I thought she was saying step and scoot :o ) is so hard. But you already know that I find the footwork tricky.

Which brings me to you, bamboo. My recent posts have been almost completely like yours regarding tricky footwork. Don't worry, we can do it! And even if you don't get all of the footwork down, you're still burning calories! :) Plus, the more you do a video, the more you'll get the footwork. I have given myself permission to suck at the footwork but also demand that I work on it. Good for you for working out and getting yourself jump-started!

Scoutesina I hope you'll get answers soon on that Hip MRI. Good for you for continuing to work out your other areas.

Which brings me to my little thing: as I said yesterday in my fly-by post, I did Upper Body Sculpt with Janet yesterday. Woo, buddy, am I ever having delayed muscle soreness today! Holy moly! My posterior delts and lat dorsi are so sore today. But good sore, not can't stand the pain sore. Today was a rest day; tomorrow is a nice long workout, then Saturday morning, a short ab routine before my flight, then Sunday off since I won't be home.

[bamboo]

Reenie- I love that good sore feeling! The footwork is definitely hard. But as long as I keep moving, even if I'm stepping in the wrong direction, it's something ;)

Tonight I did the Aerobic Body Sculpting video with Allie, and that was easier to follow than the Ultimate Calorie Blaster. I think Allie cues really well, so that helped, and she explained the moves well also. I still futzed some of it up (like the box step thing and the bunny hop sequence :confused:), but oh well. I really do like the step, and it feels good to do things on the incline.

[Jill1228]

I am scheduled to do Complete Aerobic weight training but if I am not up to it, I am going to do a walk today

[Reenie]

Flying by yet again.... did Complete Aerobics and Weight Training with Emily today. It was a LONG workout, but I didn't really notice how long because I was kinda having fun. I like her almost as much as Allie... I think she cues pretty well (although a couple of times, she gave the opposite side cue since she's backwards to me, if you understand me there), and I like it that she gets out of breath, too, and then tells me, "It's okay if you're getting out of breath, that means your heart is working hard!" Anyway, I found the footwork less complicated on this video than on the others in BSS2. I burned 430 calories.

bamboo So glad for you that you're enjoying your TransFIRMer! That incline is great!

APhiJill It was a hard one, but I feel awesome now, and I am so proud of myself for doing it! But if you can't, good for you for committing to a walk. :)

[Jill1228]

I wound up doing the first part of FIRM 3 in 1 boot camp DVD. you can either do part 1 which is 42 min, part 2 is 39 minutes and part 3 is the whole damn thing

[Sue]

Just a quick post to say, yes I am alive... and YES, I finally worked out today - Aerobic Body Shaping with Allie. I'm going to follow the Transirmer rotaion this month, with some modifications here and there.

[Reenie]

Good job, Jill! I don't have that video. From what I've read, it's spliced from 90s tapes... is it worth the buy?

Sue Glad you're here! :D Good job on the workout!

I was OOT this weekend; flew out Saturday morning and came back yesterday afternoon for a very quick trip. Had planned to do Firm Abs with Nancy Saturday morning, but only got half-way through when DH advised me to stop working out because we needed to leave.... I burned 33 calories in that half-video, but again, the monitor's band around my chest hurt during the work, so I think in the future, I'll do the whole video and estimate at 60 calories burned and not wear the band so that I'm more comfortable. And I did Maximum Cardio Burn plus Abs with Allie today. I am so proud of myself because it's my second time doing it in this rotation and I've got the footwork down! :D I am so proud of myself. Plus, I like that one and Emily's Complete Aerobic Training the best out of the BSS2 set, so it was a fun workout (I'll be honest, though, I seriously didn't feel like working out since I am expecting AF and feeling sluggish, plus it is freezing bones here and I just want to hibernate :o ); I'm glad I did it because I feel energized now. I also burned 438 calories. :)

[Reenie]

Oh yeah, forgot to mention that I weighed in on Saturday this week since I wasn't home Sunday. Lost 0.2 lb... not much but it's a loss.

[Scoutesina]

Feeling like a broken record...but I did Firm Parts: Upper Body yet again last night. I increased the weights on some of the exercises and made it through most of the three sets of push-ups (I had been wimping out and doing standing up push-ups before but I decided it was time to do the real things). That made a big difference, and I definitely felt the burn. At least if I have to get crutches or a walker my arms will be strong. :D

Way to go everybody! Jill, how do you like the Boot Camp video? I usually prefer dancey routines to boot camp-style ones (all those reps get to me!), but I am tempted to try that one.

[Jill1228]

I haven't thought of doing standing up pushups...are you talking about wall pushups?

Cause i can NOT do big boy pushups

I like the boot camp one. It uses a barbell but if you don't have one, you can modify (I do but I didn't feel like using it).

yesterday i did
The Firm: Ultimate Fat Burning. The footwork is tricky so I modified and winged whatever I needed to.

I was supposed to do a workout today but things got FUBAR'd. I had a doc appt and JUST as i was pulling into the space, they doc office called me to reschedule for later on today (like in an hour) :rolleyes:

[Scoutesina]

Jill - I'm so bad about knowing the proper names for exercises, but wall push-ups are what I mean--where you stand a few feet away from the wall and do push-ups against the wall. I can't really feel much when my arms are completely extended, but the part where your face is almost touching the wall is when I start to feel the burn, so I do a very limited range of motion. I can't remember where I learned about those...I can't do real big boy push-ups either--I do the girl kind where you're on your knees. But even those kick my butt!

My workout last night got thwarted too. Don't you hate when someone else messes up your plans?!

[Reenie]

I do knee push-ups, too. :p And I'm okay with that!

Yesterday, I did Complete Aerobics and Weight Training again (see, it's okay to do the same video, Scoutesina. Burned 380 calories.

Jill Sorry that happened. What's FUBAR?

[bamboo]

I do knee pushups too. And I don't do them on the step- I don't know if it's because of me height or what, but I get a much better pushup workout if I just do them on the floor.

I'm doing well- I've been doing a video 5 nights a week, trying to just keep cardio mixed up with heavier weight focused videos and work abs in there as much as I can.

Does anyone have any tips on lunges? I wish I had a side mirror to watch myself in- I find it hard to know whether I've got the form right on them. I also feel like my balance is bad with the lunges so I think that screws with my form too, I'm wobbly. They feel like they work my muscles, but like I'm not doing them quite right maybe? Maybe I should make DH come in and compare me to the video and tell me how off I am ;)

[Reenie]

Good job, bamboo! Sure, have your DH come in and compare if you don't have a mirror that you can check yourself in. I know I am constantly thinking about maintaining proper form. :p

Well, yesterday, I missed my first workout of the year. :( But I am only slated to do an abs video tomorrow, so I decided to double up (do the abs plus yesterday's missed video, Maximum Cardio Burn plus Abs). Today, I did Total Sculpt plus Abs.

I am 99% sure that I will be heavier tomorrow morning than last weigh-in. I have eaten at or over plan all week long. I started over again today with being back on plan. Actually, today I wasn't even hungry for all that I ate (and I only input 1200 calories today and plan to all week to make up for last week ;) ), but I didn't want to dip below my necessary number of calories. I think that the hardest thing for me, when I get to my goal weight, will be to figure out how many calories my body needs just to maintain. I know there are calculators that supposedly figure those, but every time I eat the amount that they say I need, I gain. :rolleyes:

[Reenie]

Well, I can't believe it! The scale today is EXACTLY the same as it was last Saturday! :confused: :D I'll take it! And the really good news is that I am also -0.4% BF! So I must've actually lost a bit of fat but built up some muscle this week... maybe that's why I've been so hungry. ;)

Okay, so I don't want to go backwards, so I am BACK ON EATING PLAN as of yesterday. :)

[Jill1228]

Yeah I had a crappy week so far. My last weigh in I was up 1.4..not goog

Back on the workout track today and checking in with FIRM Basics Sculpting with Weights :)

[Reenie]

Jill Good job for moving on and getting on track! I am proud of you! :)

So, I officially have some kind of a chest cold or something. Last night, my throat felt sore, but I thought it was just because of the dryness in the house. I put the humidifier on, and this morning, I felt worse but I thought, "Well, I'm kinda stuffed up, so maybe I was breathing through my mouth while I was sleeping." But no such luck. I have continued to feel worse all day, even getting in a 2+ hour nap. I tried to do Max Cardio Burn to make up for missing on Friday, and my heart rate was just out of control and I felt like I was going to pass out. I couldn't get it to come down. So I only worked out for half an hour (Burned 287 calories). I would ordinarily be mad at myself for quitting half-way through, but today I am mad for pushing myself when I knew I didn't feel well. Ugh.

[lbs27]

Reenie-sorry to hear you're sick. Unfortunately, to me that's a great excuse not to work out!! ;)

I'm still here reading along. I'm considering getting some of the BSSII videos, so I'm enjoying the reviews here. As for me, last weekend we were out of town, so nothing on Saturday, but Sunday I did Supercharged Sculpting and Jiggle-Free Abs (both Transfirmer). Yesterday I was short on time in afternoon, so I rode the bike in the morning (DH was still in bed watching TV, so no video for me) and then did Jiggle Free Abs in the afternoon. Today was Aerobic Body Shaping. I hate that one, but I know it's good for me. :D

[Reenie]

lbs27 Unfortunately, it's a great excuse to me, too! I have to be very, very rigid with myself or I'll just have a field day. :p I do like the BSS2 videos; there is a lot of emphasis on sculpting where, left to my own devices, I am a cardio-loving girl, so I need that. And I definitely have my faves in there, with Max Cardio Burn with Allie followed by Complete Aerobics and Weight Training with Emily.

So I figured out why I couldn't get my heart rate to come down yesterday; I was running a 101 F fever! :eek: I am really, really glad that I quit working out in the middle of it (and thank goodness for my heart rate monitor to tell me that my HR was soaring). No fever today, and though I'm still feeling a little crummy, I did make myself do Total Sculpt today (burned 361 calories).

[Reenie]

All right, I'm back again. :o I was slated to do Firm Abs yesterday but didn't since I wasn't feeling right during Max Cardio Burn, so I rescheduled it for Wednesday to double up with Upper Body Sculpt, but then I got to thinking that I'd like to spend as little time as possible working out on Wednesday since I think we're going out to dinner. So I doubled up for today and did Firm Abs (in addition to Total Sculpt, which I posted about above).

[Jill1228]

Reenie, did you pass your sickness to me? I have bronchitis and an ear infection and the doctor kicked my ass because I worked out yesterday. I am banned from working out for 2 days

[Scoutesina]

Feel better, Jill and Reenie. Get some rest and don't push yourself.

I finally felt up to working out--but not quite ready for a full-length Firm workout--so I did a 30-minute low-impact dance tape followed by Ab Sculpt. Hopefully I will be able to work up to the longer Body Sculpting tapes this weekend. I really need some better shoes, but I'm not going to use that as an excuse.

[Reenie]

Jill So sorry you are sick! That is no fun. But at least you have medical clearance for not working out. ;) :p

Scoutesina Good job for you! I think it's a good idea not to push it too hard, especially since you're getting over an injury. Did you feel the burn in your abs today? I know I've been doing some different abs moves with this set, and I can REALLY feel it in my obliques.

I am still not quite right; so much for V-day because I took a long nap after being overcome by dizziness. Thought I felt better, got up and did Upper Body Sculpt (burned 147 calories). I got through the whole thing, but I was really dizzy at some points (and trust me, since it's a sculpting video, there was no correlation). I wonder what's going on with me.

It's been pretty quiet in here... how are you other ladies doing? :)

[Scoutesina]

Oh yes, I could definitely feel the ab burn! There is one exercise on that tape that I don't get though--where you're laying on your belly and up on your elbows and you're supposed to kick your feet up toward your butt one at a time. I must not be doing those right bc I can't feel anything in my abs, just in my hamstrings and maybe my back.

Reenie, be careful with the dizziness. You may be pushing yourself too hard before recovering from your bug. For me, 1200 calories made me light-headed. I found the lowest I could really go was 1350. So maybe you need an extra granola bar or cup of yogurt or something.

[Jill1228]

I have been working out--by cleaning house for the company I have this weekend. It is not like it is really messy (it's not)...we just have lots of sq footage :)

[Reenie]

Scoutesina You know it's funny because I've never understood that exercise either. I just try to hold my abs really tight while I'm doing it. :p Either we're both doing it wrong, or there is something tight on us there that might not be on other women (maybe this has to do with tightening muscles that can get stretched out by pregnancy? Since neither of us has ever had a baby, that could actually make sense...). Yeah, and I have been very bad at staying at 1200 this week as I said I'd try... I just can't. I seem to go around 1400 kcal a day, and I think that's pretty much perfect for me. Although I was bad on V-day because DH brought me a big bag of my favorites, Twerps. :p

Jill Are you feeling better? Company when you're sick is no fun. But housecleaning really can get your heart pumping. Unfortunately for me, I have the opposite cleaning problem as you currently, so that's my next stop after this post...