New Client's Diary 6/11/07

Judging my progress strictly by the number on the scale is not a reliable indication of how far I've come, so Jane and I have decided to do away with it for now. Without a doubt, I am stronger than when I started this process. I have more stamina and am able to do simple exercises that had always challenged me in the past. Jane's approach is so different in comparison to the other trainers that I have had experience with. Typically, I had been instructed to do tedious workouts consisting of core exercises, followed by weights, and then cardio. It got to be so boring and predictable that there were times when I felt like I could sleep through the whole thing. Jane shakes it up quite a bit and I have yet to do the same routine twice. She tends to incorporate two and/or three components at once for an amazing workout. Sure I feel like I'm going to die during the hour, but when I'm done, I feel really good about myself.

New Client's Diary - 5/28/07

I came to Jane with a torn rotator cuff. I had been nursing the injury for over a year and in less than a month I have experienced a very significant improvement in my shoulder's strength and range of motion. That is amazing to me and almost worth the trade off of not having lost any weight yet. I have fluctuated a bit in that regard. At first I lost 1 pound, then gained 4, and then lost 3. Which puts me at....185, right where I started. I have not been following a diet of any sort, but rather, I'm using common sense and trying to eat the right foods in healthful portions at the appropriate times. Going on a diet or counting calories will be counterproductive in the long run because once I have achieved the weight loss and go off the diet and start eating "normally" I risk gaining again....and then dieting again, and then gaining again....the circle goes on. I don't want that. So while I'm working out and building strength and stamina, I'm also working on changing my attitude towards food...what I eat, when I eat, and the ever so important...why I eat. I have been told that it is normal to experience a bit of a lull in weight loss initially, and that my metabolism is adjusting to the new routine I've thrown myself into. Well, that better be the case, because if I don't lose a few pounds soon I'm thinking Jane would look mighty good on a spit smothered in barbeque sauce with some fries and a chocolate shake!!!

F.U.S.E. Introduces TRX Suspension Training

This has to be the coolest most productive piece of equipment ever and here at F.U.S.E we are embracing the TRX system.
So what is it?
The TRX Suspension Training unit is a portable, industrial-strength, nylon webbing system with handles, foot cradles and anchoring attachments. TRX stands for Total Body Resistance Exercise. At first glance it seems simple enough, but don't let looks deceive you. The U.S. Navy designed this training tool for its special Sea, Air and Land (SEAL) forces while they were deployed for extended periods. The elite teams needed something portable and highly effective to maintain their fitness levels in the field.
The TRX unit uses your own body weight against gravity to increase strength, stability and endurance. As it's suspended, rather than fixed like traditional weight training equipment, it requires a great deal of core work to stabilize your movements against the forces of gravity.

Who would like it?
If you already like working out with stability balls, foam rollers and elastic resistance equipment, you'll probably enjoy the challenge. It doesn't look as macho as pushing weights, but once you try it, I'm sure you'll be convinced otherwise. Because the TRX system is suspended, it creates a dynamic environment, making the neuromuscular system work to co-ordinate movement. Athletes will love this right away. In fact, the professional NHL and NFL teams and many elite level athletes are using it.

New Client's Diary

Client's Log--Start date 5/21/2007:
I've committed to 3x's weekly with Jane, and I think I'm sorry. The first workout was worse than expected and the pain was phenomenal. I couldn't go from a sit/stand OR stand/sit position the first 3 days without cringing. She promises it will never be that bad again and I have no choice but to believe her. I will let you know in future writings whether or not she is a big-fat-hairy-liar.
I have had past experience in working with a trainer but she NEVER pushed me as hard as Jane does. That's not a bad thing. Just putting it out there, that Jane works it (you) and I feel that results are sure to follow. Currently I am 185 lbs. and hope to lose at least 50 lbs. to get back to where I was before I had the baby and let myself go to s***

18th January

Yesterday was weigh-in and I lost 3 pounds. Very happy with that. The Biggest Loser started on Tuesday and I am really enjoying that - even though I'm up and ready to go for 4.30am each morning! Instead of one on one training, this is a group class which pushes us out of our comfort zone. Classes run at 5am Monday to Friday for 3 weeks. It's good because we all work together (except for the odd rowing competition) and have fun along the way. Our workout varies day to day, focusing on a different muscle area at each class. I think this variation means you don't get bored doing the same routine everyday. Everyone was weighed on Tuesday and will be weighed each week. The "Biggest Loser" is, of course, the winner and there will be a prize for them. So the competition really pushes you to do well. Apart from that, Jane has pushed me to do more cardio, and I have been jogging and cycling as much as possible. Already looking forward to weigh-in next Tuesday!

Monday 15th January

Well, today was cardio again. We took the double jogging stroller (with Euan and Isla inside) along the trail to the park. I pushed the buggy, jogged for abit and did many walking lunges. Then I jogged/walked to the coffee shop to meet Jane and the kids. Altogether 2 hours cardio, and I'm happy with that. I'm really starting to feel better and can't wait til weigh-in on Wednesday.

14th January - REST DAY!

Today is Sunday, rest day. Last night I came to San Francisco and stayed at my friends hotel. We went to the pub, he ordered a Stella, they had no decaf coffee so I had water....such a crazy cat...my friends at home would never believe that sight. Dinner was some (very expensive) sushi which was delicious. I was so tired after my jog that I fell asleep at 9.30!

Jane gave me specific instructions for lunch so I head to the cafe on Market Street, which was boarded up and had obviously closed a while ago. So, I head home and eat the emergency tuna snack pack Jane supplied me with before I left. I have an early night and actually look forward to the next days workout.