Day 14 - Level 1

Today was Level 1 of the 30 Day Shred workout.

A refresher for those just joining me. There are 3 workouts on the 30 Day Shred DVD. The first workout is called Level 1 and you can see my full review of this workout here. The 2nd workout is called Level 2 because it is harder than than the first workout (Level 1). You can get the scoop on this workout here. And finally there's the torturous Level 3 which is (as I'm sure you've guessed by now) harder than either of the first two workouts. You can get the cold hard facts of Level 3 here.

After progressing from Level 1 all the way through to Level 3, you may think Level 1 would be easy. But no, it's not. All the workouts are different and use different muscles. So, even if your body is used to doing Level 3, when you switch back to Level 1 your muscles have forgotten what you did back then, so it's going to be tough. That's why I've decide to switch up my exercise routine every day. Instead of doing 10 days in a row of each level (how the Shred is "supposed" to done), I'm changing them every day. I first did them in order two times through (1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3) and now I'm switching things up again and doing Level 3 the most as it's the hardest. So, my new pattern is 1,3,2,3,1,3,2,3.

Note: the only reason I'm able to do this is because I've already progressed through all the workouts. If you're just starting the Shred for the first time, please don't try this - you may kill yourself :) Stick with Level 1 for the full 10 days, or until you can do the entire workout with Natalie whichever comes first, then move on to Level 2 for 10 days or until you can do the whole thing (with good form!) with Natalie, and then proceed to Level 3. If this is your second run at the 30 Day shred then have at it!

I can definitely tell that Level 1 is easier than Level 3. Don't get me wrong - this is one tough workout still. In fact, I admit to resting for 2 reps on the bicep curl portion of the last set of circuit 2 (still kept doing the lunges). But even though the sweat is running, it's not as reminiscent of the Niagara Falls that Level 3 produces. It's tough, but I don't have to mentally tough it out as much as I have to in Level 3. Mind over matter and all that.

One thing I find a little funny in this workout. During Circuit 3 Jillian compliments Natalie and Anita on not cheating when she's up in front and can't see them. The reason that's funny is that Natalie did cheat during the previous circuit, Jillian just didn't catch her! Ha!

I'm planning to mow the lawn this afternoon yet. I would be going out to do it right now, but we had to get it fixed and Nathan's only bringing it back around lunch time - and then I have to wait for Jacob's next nap. The lawn is so long already, it's going to be like my own Level 3 workout! :)