I am so excited about today’s post! For some time now, I’ve been talking about how hard it’s been for me to workout with my crazy schedule but I think I’ve finally found a solution and I’m going to share it with you today. My challenge has been to find something that would build muscle and give me a good cardio workout at the same time plus increase flexibility. All within 20-30 minutes. I’ve been interested in Pilates and Yoga but hadn’t tried either one yet but now I’ve found a program that combines both, plus strength training and cardio! It’s called PiYo and I’m loving it!
Developed by Chalene Johnson, personal trainer, motivational speaker and founder of the SmartLife movement; Piyo is a workout that, for me, meets my criteria for a program that does it all. She also developed TurboJam, TurboKick and Hip Hop Hustle. I love her style. Her explanations of what to do are very clear and she has modified the exercises for those who need it. And she’s fun! The package that I purchased has 9 different workouts in it and they last anywhere from 20 minutes to 45 minutes so I don’t ever get bored! It’s offered through Beachbody which also offers all of Chalene’s other workouts plus the likes of Insanity, P90X, Cize and many more.
One of the things I love most about it, is you can do it anywhere and need no equipment except a way to watch the DVD’s. If you have a yoga mat…great! I didn’t for the first 3 weeks and was fine on the carpet. And you don’t need much room. The most movement you do is 2 big steps to the side, other than that you use the space the size of a yoga mat. That’s it! you can also go to Beachbody.com become a member and get your workouts on any mobile device. You can also find PiYo live classes you can stream online or go to a location near you and participate in. There are so many options, there’s literally something for everyone!
As I said before, the moves are modified for you and everything is explained in detail. So if you are new to working out or have never done Pilates or Yoga before (like me!) you can catch on quick. In fact, she’s provided an entire workout at the beginning that goes into detail about the basic moves. I was a bit skeptical at first. I’ve worked out all my life so I was surprised at how quickly I saw results…and I’m not going to lie to you ….it’s tough but….OH MY GOSH at the results! Within my first week of doing the workout I felt and SAW a difference! And so did Hubby!! 🙂 My goal wasn’t to lose weight but to mainly tone. I did however lose a few pounds and for a 54-year-old woman, I’ll take it! I started the program a little over a month ago and I’m still loving it. My clothes fit better, I have more energy and I just feel better in general. You should definitely check with your doctor prior to starting any workout but when you have been given the green light….I HIGHLY recommend this program. I paid $60 and it came with 3 DVD’s, a nutrition plan, quick start guide, tape measure and an extra DVD with another workout on it. All in all I am well satisfied with the value for what I paid. It’s much less than a gym membership and I can do it from the comfort of my own home or take it with me when I travel.
So if you are like me…crunched for time but want a great workout…PiYo just may be the ticket for you. I hope this is helpful to you and if you try it, please let me know how you did! If you need encouragement, feel free to contact me anytime! I truly want you to develop a happier, healthy life!
Blessings,
Becky
