Day 77 and things are closing in fast: second last time I will have just a jump-rope/skipping day.
Did my skipping first thing in the morning (added some more minutes) and then did our favourite 8 Min Abs video to boot. Still sore from yesterday's workout so combined, chest and belly (I mean abs) hurt like hell.
Diet is going OK. Doing the raw egg whites in the office. I got caught today by one of my Japanese staff who screamed at the site of me in my charcoal suit scoffing down a glass of raw egg white. It doesn't touch the sides and is much easier then peeling a boiled egg.. etc.
All good. Going out tonight with friends for drinks - they, sparking wine / me Perrier with a bit of lime. Getting heaps of compliments; especially here in Asia where if you're fat they'll tell you; if you're skinnier - they will do a song and dance about it.
Still planning my indulgence.. will blog on it over the weekend. Tomorrow - Yokohama workout with Patrick. Giddy up team!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Day 76
Wow guys can you believe we've come this far and are near the top of the peak?? Must say - workouts do not become easier and are still very tough. I say this as I sit here with my abs, back and actually chest tighten up with each key I hit on this keyboard.
Legs are sore from skipping - as really went at it as quickly I could for the time limit - back is sore from pull ups and rowing - all good.
So - tomorrow is jump-rope day which is good - got to love our Fridays. Really unsure if I have hit a plateau weight is going up a little which I hope is muscle (it must be muscle on my diet...).
Loving this and wondering how life will be 'after' the program. Keep it up team: final workouts - yippee ki yay!
Legs are sore from skipping - as really went at it as quickly I could for the time limit - back is sore from pull ups and rowing - all good.
So - tomorrow is jump-rope day which is good - got to love our Fridays. Really unsure if I have hit a plateau weight is going up a little which I hope is muscle (it must be muscle on my diet...).
Loving this and wondering how life will be 'after' the program. Keep it up team: final workouts - yippee ki yay!
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Day 75
Il fantastico on Day 75 - feel superb and upper body feels tight. Chest and bicep workouts are always good. Did extra sets on most which is something new for me. Planks are still my kryptonite - although did first two sets all the way through but for other sets had to use my knee for support at around 50 seconds..
Yogurt post workout is brilliant - did the egg white raw.
So April 14 is Day 90 - cannot believe it is coming up so quickly. BUT before then an indulgence to consider.... we need an ideas pool. I am craving vegemite although difficult to incorporate that into 1000 calories.
Giddyup - two weeks tomorrow is the final day.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Day 74
Doggies are home - this is one here zonked (photo right) after her journey: not that we walked back to Tokyo.
Leg workouts hurt but getting through all the sets. Shoulders are good and done and V-sits are a killer but great.
Thank you all for the support regarding life after PCP: I really want to keep and improve on what I've got. Feel great.
Giddyup team.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Day 73
Slow things down.. cannot believe it is Day 73: great news - had first glimpse of abs.. some way off but good. Today's workout is tough but great. Pulls up were great and almost feel pumped up afterwards: same with triceps.
OK - a short blog today - in that I am about to drive 600kms to pick up pups. Have boiled eggs, fruit and yogurt ready for the trip.
I can see the PCP program end in sight although my challenge for these last 17 days is to work out how to make this a lifelong wellness change. This is so I do not go back to the dark-side.. I might visit now and then although keen to stay put on this PCP road.
Giddyup - onwards and upwards team.
OK - a short blog today - in that I am about to drive 600kms to pick up pups. Have boiled eggs, fruit and yogurt ready for the trip.
I can see the PCP program end in sight although my challenge for these last 17 days is to work out how to make this a lifelong wellness change. This is so I do not go back to the dark-side.. I might visit now and then although keen to stay put on this PCP road.
Giddyup - onwards and upwards team.
Day 72
Day 72 and all good. Got to do day 71 workout as did today's yesterday at Patrick's studio. Ouch - sore legs but must say shoulder workout is still pretty tough. Getting better at v-sits which I love: did full sets and then had failure on the last set at go number 13. Workout at Patrick's was brilliant yesterday: you really get an extra workout by going there: even gave Patrick and James a laugh with my wonky leg ups.
Busy again even though I have time off. Driving over to Kansai (Osaka area) to pick up my doggies and bring them back to Tokyo. Things are calming down and expats are returning.
I have a busy 2 days and then things should return to back pre-quake: back to my PCP workout regime: early mornings. Really want these last weeks to count.
Giddy up team!
Busy again even though I have time off. Driving over to Kansai (Osaka area) to pick up my doggies and bring them back to Tokyo. Things are calming down and expats are returning.
I have a busy 2 days and then things should return to back pre-quake: back to my PCP workout regime: early mornings. Really want these last weeks to count.
Giddy up team!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Day 71
Day 71 - photos up. About to head down to Yokohama to do my workout. All good here - nothing to report: diet fine - mine has increased and I have my evenings back again.
Hoping I lose more fat-count over these last 2.7 weeks but getting there.
Giddy up!
Hoping I lose more fat-count over these last 2.7 weeks but getting there.
Giddy up!
Day 70
What a great milestone we've achieved. Day 70 and less than 2 weeks to go - how time flies. Did my skips - all good there and then did the 8 min abs video which is always good and enjoyable.
Had an amazing rest day - literally DVDs, workout, a walk and then DVDs.
Outside that - down to Yokohama tomorrow for which I am sure will be a tough workout. Aftermath here in Japan is still uncertain although I believe people are tired of worrying now.
Shops have milk, eggs and yogurt now - not in great variety but available. If anything - the disaster has made the Japanese energy conscious: you can even see stars now in Tokyo if you look up: the neon lights and excessive lighting is all gone as we all conserve energy to prevent blackouts. Very impressed in the positive community effect going on.
Onward and upward team - I feel an indulgence due any day now??
Had an amazing rest day - literally DVDs, workout, a walk and then DVDs.
Outside that - down to Yokohama tomorrow for which I am sure will be a tough workout. Aftermath here in Japan is still uncertain although I believe people are tired of worrying now.
Shops have milk, eggs and yogurt now - not in great variety but available. If anything - the disaster has made the Japanese energy conscious: you can even see stars now in Tokyo if you look up: the neon lights and excessive lighting is all gone as we all conserve energy to prevent blackouts. Very impressed in the positive community effect going on.
Onward and upward team - I feel an indulgence due any day now??
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Day 69
Woo hoo - Day 69 done, dusted, enjoyable and good. Workout done - pull ups are always tough although did full sets nice and slow. Sore all over which is the sign of a good workout. Even did full sets of kung-fu sit ups; the only thing stopping me were my hands hurting.
OK - I have been given 6 days leave (which includes 2 days of the weekend) which is great. I came off my last shift early this morning and had a nice quiet day today. Things are calming here in Tokyo and my workload has come right down. Anyone who wanted to leave has left and now it is just dealing with the misinformation which typically follows any disaster.
Bought t-shirts today which fit well. I do know there will be further change over these next 20 days or so.
Giddy up !
OK - I have been given 6 days leave (which includes 2 days of the weekend) which is great. I came off my last shift early this morning and had a nice quiet day today. Things are calming here in Tokyo and my workload has come right down. Anyone who wanted to leave has left and now it is just dealing with the misinformation which typically follows any disaster.
Bought t-shirts today which fit well. I do know there will be further change over these next 20 days or so.
Giddy up !
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Day 68
Lordy.... now our water is contaminated with radiation.. what next?? (actually - I shouldn't ask that).
Just off another shift from 5pm to 2am but all good. I did my workout first thing in the morning and it was not a bad workout. Chest and bicep days are good - enjoy them, can do them and usually throw in extra sets.. The plank - well, another story. Shame this is not the first thing we do - as I am usually so tired at this point that getting to the full 90 seconds is impossible.. although I go to failure which is around 45 seconds.. yes I know - pathetic although at least it is to failure.
Diet is fine. I am taking my dinner and snacks with me to my shift. So as my fellow Embassy workers down pizza and coke - I am sitting there drinking down my pre-made shake - or shelling my boiled egg and trashing the yolk. The pizza smelt amazing although did not succumb... I do enjoy my veges and I do like my shake: ginger being the secret.
OK - giddyup team: getting close to Day 70.. 20 days (plus) is still a tough time.
Just off another shift from 5pm to 2am but all good. I did my workout first thing in the morning and it was not a bad workout. Chest and bicep days are good - enjoy them, can do them and usually throw in extra sets.. The plank - well, another story. Shame this is not the first thing we do - as I am usually so tired at this point that getting to the full 90 seconds is impossible.. although I go to failure which is around 45 seconds.. yes I know - pathetic although at least it is to failure.
Diet is fine. I am taking my dinner and snacks with me to my shift. So as my fellow Embassy workers down pizza and coke - I am sitting there drinking down my pre-made shake - or shelling my boiled egg and trashing the yolk. The pizza smelt amazing although did not succumb... I do enjoy my veges and I do like my shake: ginger being the secret.
OK - giddyup team: getting close to Day 70.. 20 days (plus) is still a tough time.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Day 67
Still on mad work shifts although at least they are becoming routine. Workout was great - legs are enjoyable and I find easy to do now: did extra sets and all. Shoulder workouts are painful - getting through the full sets are tough.
Diet is OK and I am starting feel full all the time - not to mention, I feel like I am eating all the time; all good though. Lost some more weight although I am sleeping better now which hopefully means the muscle growing factory will be working.
Man I wish these aftershocks would quit it - another one rolling through as I write this. I live on level 37 although the building is modern.. still scares me with each one rolling through.
Giddyup - on to day 68.
Diet is OK and I am starting feel full all the time - not to mention, I feel like I am eating all the time; all good though. Lost some more weight although I am sleeping better now which hopefully means the muscle growing factory will be working.
Man I wish these aftershocks would quit it - another one rolling through as I write this. I live on level 37 although the building is modern.. still scares me with each one rolling through.
Giddyup - on to day 68.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Day 66
All great on Day 66 albeit - still working weird hours on consular duties. Just off a shift then 5pm to 1am and things have calmed down. We now await some control on the nuclear reactors which will then let all breathe a sign of relief.
Workout was great - did it first thing this morning and almost have diet down pat. I took in my shake to my evening shift with my evening snack. I am down an egg white although I did do an extra one (so 2) in my shake.
I have tomorrow off and they are rotating us on and off which makes PCP that much easier. Seriously - once the reactor issue is resolved then PCP will be a lot easier.
Onward and upward team.
Workout was great - did it first thing this morning and almost have diet down pat. I took in my shake to my evening shift with my evening snack. I am down an egg white although I did do an extra one (so 2) in my shake.
I have tomorrow off and they are rotating us on and off which makes PCP that much easier. Seriously - once the reactor issue is resolved then PCP will be a lot easier.
Onward and upward team.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Day 65 - giddyup: back in action
Day 65 and going great. I finally could get to a workout and day 65 is a tough one. Finally got my Mac back from the Mac store so I could upload photos. alas unfortunately the numbers on the keyboard do not work (I am using my backup for this).. anyhoo..
Workout is great - could really feel it. Still cannot do the full planks - failure around 45 to 50 seconds but going on to failure. Did extra sets on the chest workouts.
OK - why do I have so much more time. Well, I evacuated my two labs out close to Osaka which was very sad although good in a way - removes stress. The Japanese are amazing and having a Japanese friend is for life. A Japanese friend from my late teens is still a good friend. I called and within 2 minutes said yes - of course to my favour. I can not leave my post - although this friend agreed to drive to Tokyo to take my dogs for a while.
So the guy drove over 600kms to Tokyo to pick them up and they are on-route back to his place now. The reason I sent them was not because there is a danger - there are two reasons: I am now less encumbered for my current work .. and on the chance I am evacuated to the Embassy bunker (extremely unlikely) and with the no-dog policy I would not be abondoning them. So they are good and I will drive over next week and pick them up.
I have posted up photos of Day 58 (last week) and Day 64 photos of yesterday. Lost heaps of weight - but abs are still not showing. I am hoping in these last 25 days my belly will harden and flatten or show the allusive abs - without flexing.
Diet is OK - I bulk bought milk, eggs and yogurt - so have plenty. Other things like vegetables, protein are available: so - so far so good.
OK - on again tomorrow from 5pm to 1am. That gives me time to work out before. Onward and upward team.
Workout is great - could really feel it. Still cannot do the full planks - failure around 45 to 50 seconds but going on to failure. Did extra sets on the chest workouts.
OK - why do I have so much more time. Well, I evacuated my two labs out close to Osaka which was very sad although good in a way - removes stress. The Japanese are amazing and having a Japanese friend is for life. A Japanese friend from my late teens is still a good friend. I called and within 2 minutes said yes - of course to my favour. I can not leave my post - although this friend agreed to drive to Tokyo to take my dogs for a while.
So the guy drove over 600kms to Tokyo to pick them up and they are on-route back to his place now. The reason I sent them was not because there is a danger - there are two reasons: I am now less encumbered for my current work .. and on the chance I am evacuated to the Embassy bunker (extremely unlikely) and with the no-dog policy I would not be abondoning them. So they are good and I will drive over next week and pick them up.
I have posted up photos of Day 58 (last week) and Day 64 photos of yesterday. Lost heaps of weight - but abs are still not showing. I am hoping in these last 25 days my belly will harden and flatten or show the allusive abs - without flexing.
Diet is OK - I bulk bought milk, eggs and yogurt - so have plenty. Other things like vegetables, protein are available: so - so far so good.
OK - on again tomorrow from 5pm to 1am. That gives me time to work out before. Onward and upward team.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Day 64 - failure all around
OK - this is perhaps the worst PCP day for me - although I see light on the horizon. Was unable to work out - although at least I was able to keep to my diet. Being pulled into briefings etc based around this disaster.
Good news is that tomorrow should be more routine like allowing me to get back into the regime. Wrote the new diet down and missing meals here and there.. Possibly losing too much weight although hoping it prepares me for the final stretch to build up muscle replacing that lost fat.
Most friends have left or leaving - I feel like Will Smith driving around in "I am Legend" - streets are dead and foreigners have all left. Japanese look at me as to almost say thank you for staying.
Either way - fingers crossed I can get into a routine. I miss my workout and want to get it all going again.
Giddy up!
Good news is that tomorrow should be more routine like allowing me to get back into the regime. Wrote the new diet down and missing meals here and there.. Possibly losing too much weight although hoping it prepares me for the final stretch to build up muscle replacing that lost fat.
Most friends have left or leaving - I feel like Will Smith driving around in "I am Legend" - streets are dead and foreigners have all left. Japanese look at me as to almost say thank you for staying.
Either way - fingers crossed I can get into a routine. I miss my workout and want to get it all going again.
Giddy up!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Day 63
All good on Day 63: honestly losing track of what every day is - although I do know Friday's for us is jump rope day. Did the 3 x 5 skipping and then yesterday's workout. I enjoy the back workout out although triceps need work.
I have a rest day tomorrow which is brilliant. I was on from 5pm to 4am this morning meeting displaced Australian, US and UK families from the quake/tsunami/nuclear zone and settling them into hotels in preparedness for flights home tonight. Note - this is not my usual job, I am the Commercial Attache - so typically business stuff.
Look forward to sleeping in tomorrow and catching up with things - and of course - our workout. Sorry team I have not been reading or commenting on your blogs. I have ensured I keep my daily blogging going although as time passes I will get more time and get fully back into things.
Yippi ki yay team! All good.
I have a rest day tomorrow which is brilliant. I was on from 5pm to 4am this morning meeting displaced Australian, US and UK families from the quake/tsunami/nuclear zone and settling them into hotels in preparedness for flights home tonight. Note - this is not my usual job, I am the Commercial Attache - so typically business stuff.
Look forward to sleeping in tomorrow and catching up with things - and of course - our workout. Sorry team I have not been reading or commenting on your blogs. I have ensured I keep my daily blogging going although as time passes I will get more time and get fully back into things.
Yippi ki yay team! All good.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Day 62
Giddyup - day 62. OK I am a day behind with workouts - did Day 61 today which is a pretty good workout. Tomorrow is the jump rope day - in which I will add the workout of Day 62 and catch up.
Man, I am in good shape and I look forward to getting into better shape by day 90. Will aim to get my computer back tomorrow from the shop and then put up photos.
I am on call again tonight from 5pm to 1am.. so it is getting better than 5pm to 9am. Backlog of Australians and foreigners have left - basically anyone trying to get out of Tokyo or Japan have managed to. In all honesty - makes our lives easier assisting those really in need.
Media reports are embellished which is disappointing as it has created significant panic here. Anyhooo.. all good.
PCP has been a saviour in that the workouts are enjoyable and the diet combined has meant I have good stamina. Onward and upward team!
Man, I am in good shape and I look forward to getting into better shape by day 90. Will aim to get my computer back tomorrow from the shop and then put up photos.
I am on call again tonight from 5pm to 1am.. so it is getting better than 5pm to 9am. Backlog of Australians and foreigners have left - basically anyone trying to get out of Tokyo or Japan have managed to. In all honesty - makes our lives easier assisting those really in need.
Media reports are embellished which is disappointing as it has created significant panic here. Anyhooo.. all good.
PCP has been a saviour in that the workouts are enjoyable and the diet combined has meant I have good stamina. Onward and upward team!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Day 61
Short post today - was half way through work out (after catching up on sleep from the night shift) and have been called back in again to help out until 1am. Did the skipping and will do muscle workout once I am home at 1am.. I will then have a late shake and then can sleep in considerably.
Losing too much weight now.. so need to keep the muscle workouts.
Giddyup!!
Losing too much weight now.. so need to keep the muscle workouts.
Giddyup!!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Day 60
What a milestone we've all achieved. Going well - workout was fine (actually enjoy the leg and back days..) - did all pull ups and full sets. Nothing to report except still on call - and working tonight from 1am to 9am - literally answering the phone - helping Australian families with inquires: sorting through the massive amounts of misinformation. All good - no one from the Embassy being evacuated (and we're usually the ones who are evacuated first).
PCP wise - feeling good and plenty of stamina.
Giddyup team - all good.
PCP wise - feeling good and plenty of stamina.
Giddyup team - all good.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Day 59.5
Just a quick addition to my earlier blog: I am back on my bike - just did Day 59 workout and all good. Still exhausted from a 15 hour shift but PCP helps overall. Feel good - I have that nice sore feeling I have been missing over the last two days - and could even do full sets of the pull-ups. Hopefully there will be some muscle build up as I sleep tonight.
Giddyup team!
Giddyup team!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Day 59 - just
It is 12:15am and I am here at Haneda Airport international terminal with a desk, Australian flag, fluorescent yellow vest which says Australian Official with a matching black cap with the same signage.
Yes - I did not get to work out again - so that is two days. I have been here from 3pm and I will be here until 6am straight. No real distressed Australians but helping some still (although I am getting a little distressed from the lack of sleep). Certainly no muscle growth happening right now.
OK - reason for blog (besides knowing that I have a rest day tomorrow which means sleep and a catch-up and proper workout) is an amusing element of today's world and our new PCP lifestyles.
There is plenty of panic buying at all supermarkets in Tokyo because of the quake and the impending nuclear plant meltdown (which is a lot of rubbish - it is all fine). The only PCP food I found in low supply were eggs - but I visited a second supermarket and got heaps.
Here is the amusing factor: vegetables, apples, non-fat milk, non-fat yogurt - basically anything healthy there is plenty of. Junk food - all gone! I noticed people lined up in front of me buying all the food I used to - but for vegetables and things we buy now - there were plenty. Either way - I will be in my warm bed from 7am - will sleep until the afternoon and then up - workout and all good.
Keep it up team!! Just over a month to go - make the most of it.
Yes - I did not get to work out again - so that is two days. I have been here from 3pm and I will be here until 6am straight. No real distressed Australians but helping some still (although I am getting a little distressed from the lack of sleep). Certainly no muscle growth happening right now.
OK - reason for blog (besides knowing that I have a rest day tomorrow which means sleep and a catch-up and proper workout) is an amusing element of today's world and our new PCP lifestyles.
There is plenty of panic buying at all supermarkets in Tokyo because of the quake and the impending nuclear plant meltdown (which is a lot of rubbish - it is all fine). The only PCP food I found in low supply were eggs - but I visited a second supermarket and got heaps.
Here is the amusing factor: vegetables, apples, non-fat milk, non-fat yogurt - basically anything healthy there is plenty of. Junk food - all gone! I noticed people lined up in front of me buying all the food I used to - but for vegetables and things we buy now - there were plenty. Either way - I will be in my warm bed from 7am - will sleep until the afternoon and then up - workout and all good.
Keep it up team!! Just over a month to go - make the most of it.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Day 58
All going good on Day 58: still exhausted from yesterday's adventures. Just took photos although will need to load them later on. OK - a negative outcome of missing yesterday's workout was I am down in weight big time. I am now 78.8kgs which is great but again this is not about losing weight.
Patrick - I realise I still need to do my 'homework' - will do: back on call today and hopefully will have tomorrow free to get back to this.
Feel good. OK gang - here is a great outcome of PCP. I found I had HEAPS of stamina to get through yesterday which was pretty torturous - as I calmed 100s of anxious people trying to get home; lifted, carried suit cases from central Tokyo out to the airport (you get the picture). So while I am exhausted and have a not-going-away headache, I must say I really had the stamina which surprised my colleagues. So - another benefit to PCP: stamina: you get plenty of it.
Up an at' em team!
Patrick - I realise I still need to do my 'homework' - will do: back on call today and hopefully will have tomorrow free to get back to this.
Feel good. OK gang - here is a great outcome of PCP. I found I had HEAPS of stamina to get through yesterday which was pretty torturous - as I calmed 100s of anxious people trying to get home; lifted, carried suit cases from central Tokyo out to the airport (you get the picture). So while I am exhausted and have a not-going-away headache, I must say I really had the stamina which surprised my colleagues. So - another benefit to PCP: stamina: you get plenty of it.
Up an at' em team!
Day 57 - totally exhausted: but for the wrong reasons
OK - I did not do my workout today - although I am totally exhausted. I am on consular duties - which means reverting to assisting Australian's in distress due to the earthquake.
I successfully escorted 20 Australians from central Tokyo out to Narita Airport - via 5 different trains (most all of us squashed like sardines with luggage) it took 5 hours one way and got them all on to planes out of Japan. This is as aftershocks kept on stopping the trains. I ended up staying on at the airport assisting Australians there in distress - even helping our US and British cousins who did not have the same representation there. Note - I was in Australian signage... so looked a bit official.. Need that otherwise the staff at the airport don't listen
While I did not work out I still had my egg whites/shake now just before midnight as lifting luggage and just the escorting in itself was tiring. All good - it was a 17 hour day but good to be home.
I am on again tomorrow but intend to workout before I leave. I fear muscle development would have suffered from no workout -although I wonder if climbing all those stairs at platforms, etc would be like a workout - feel as exhausted - but not a good tired.
Giddyup team! Onward and upward.
I successfully escorted 20 Australians from central Tokyo out to Narita Airport - via 5 different trains (most all of us squashed like sardines with luggage) it took 5 hours one way and got them all on to planes out of Japan. This is as aftershocks kept on stopping the trains. I ended up staying on at the airport assisting Australians there in distress - even helping our US and British cousins who did not have the same representation there. Note - I was in Australian signage... so looked a bit official.. Need that otherwise the staff at the airport don't listen
While I did not work out I still had my egg whites/shake now just before midnight as lifting luggage and just the escorting in itself was tiring. All good - it was a 17 hour day but good to be home.
I am on again tomorrow but intend to workout before I leave. I fear muscle development would have suffered from no workout -although I wonder if climbing all those stairs at platforms, etc would be like a workout - feel as exhausted - but not a good tired.
Giddyup team! Onward and upward.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Day 56 - shaken not stirred
All OK after that massive quake here in Tokyo - whoa.. that was one of the scariest things I have gone through and the aftershocks were as bad.
Outside that and PCP wise, all good - jumps were fine and intended to do the 8 min abs which I will might do later on - just a bit tired from a busy week.
This can be my shortest blog so far.. all OK here with the quake but man that was large. Some damage here at home although nothing too bad. Yippie ki-kay!
Outside that and PCP wise, all good - jumps were fine and intended to do the 8 min abs which I will might do later on - just a bit tired from a busy week.
This can be my shortest blog so far.. all OK here with the quake but man that was large. Some damage here at home although nothing too bad. Yippie ki-kay!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Day 55 - could not sleep..
Still in the middle of my busy week - but going good. A tough work out today although very happy I could do my full pull up sets unsupported. Could not get to 10 but either 8 or 9 and then failure.
A terrible sleep waking up almost hourly - so woke up sore; meaning muscle repair most likely did not take place last nigh t- which is a shame. Double the repair tonight hopefully. Can you catch up the next night?
Went through all the sets well - pushed on hard and trying to get an extra set in if possible; not easy but doable. Amazing how triceps give up so quickly.. dips were fine although by the time I was getting near the end of the ski jumps I was getting through but with failure.
I know this is not a weight thing although on my scales I am balancing on 80kgs and about to go below 80kgs which I have not done for a good 15yrs plus (maybe even 20yrs??). This is on my scales at home (not Patrick's scales) although on my scales I started this at 90kgs and even with the build up of muscle which is certainly there I have lost 10kgs. Again... yes, I realise it is not about weight loss but it is still a good feeling.
Onward and upwards team! Keep it up.
A terrible sleep waking up almost hourly - so woke up sore; meaning muscle repair most likely did not take place last nigh t- which is a shame. Double the repair tonight hopefully. Can you catch up the next night?
Went through all the sets well - pushed on hard and trying to get an extra set in if possible; not easy but doable. Amazing how triceps give up so quickly.. dips were fine although by the time I was getting near the end of the ski jumps I was getting through but with failure.
I know this is not a weight thing although on my scales I am balancing on 80kgs and about to go below 80kgs which I have not done for a good 15yrs plus (maybe even 20yrs??). This is on my scales at home (not Patrick's scales) although on my scales I started this at 90kgs and even with the build up of muscle which is certainly there I have lost 10kgs. Again... yes, I realise it is not about weight loss but it is still a good feeling.
Onward and upwards team! Keep it up.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Day 54
Hokay.. these Day 50s are proving tough but slugging through them. Patrick's email today is timely - totally exhausted but plugging through and did one extra set of push-ups although that was it. DID momentarily think - wouldn't it be nice to sleep an extra bit and skip my workout.. (Didn't and got out of bed - did my workout with a smile.)
I applaud all of you guys in real jobs who work long hours and still achieve in the PCP lifestyle. I have a busy week early morning's until late night events - but keeping to my 5am routine. I have a lot of important people in town this whole week with post nominals on their names - or the official titles of "Sir". I live in a very wacky world here although the shorter hours has allowed me so far to keep at PCP; although this week is proving a challenge. So far so good.
PCP wise, I feel good - sore (per usual) but going good. I think now we're in the "real PCP" I am realising it is very tough but doable. The extra set of exercise per muscle (group) is difficult although gives that extra workout which is kind of the icing on the cake - whether it be our chest, biceps or legs.
No idea on my stats this week just as it is tough; not as confident as last week. Our team is going well - I guess we need to email those who haven't blogged for a while and see what's up. In reality this is actually almost over - so not so much the homestretch but close.
Giddyup team!
I applaud all of you guys in real jobs who work long hours and still achieve in the PCP lifestyle. I have a busy week early morning's until late night events - but keeping to my 5am routine. I have a lot of important people in town this whole week with post nominals on their names - or the official titles of "Sir". I live in a very wacky world here although the shorter hours has allowed me so far to keep at PCP; although this week is proving a challenge. So far so good.
PCP wise, I feel good - sore (per usual) but going good. I think now we're in the "real PCP" I am realising it is very tough but doable. The extra set of exercise per muscle (group) is difficult although gives that extra workout which is kind of the icing on the cake - whether it be our chest, biceps or legs.
No idea on my stats this week just as it is tough; not as confident as last week. Our team is going well - I guess we need to email those who haven't blogged for a while and see what's up. In reality this is actually almost over - so not so much the homestretch but close.
Giddyup team!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Day 53
All great on Day 53: getting this blog out early as I have an outside office assignment all day - so offline. Work out was great: creeps were very tough - actually as was everything. V-sits are a lot better for me - as are pistol squats although the bicycle is still a killer with failure coming a lot earlier than 50 seconds: still trying though.
Diet all good - no real problems. I really enjoy my evening shake and last night had brussel sprouts steamed with my egg white (from a boiled egg) for my dessert.
All good - I know I need to keep at this as the results will come with time.
Giddyup!
Diet all good - no real problems. I really enjoy my evening shake and last night had brussel sprouts steamed with my egg white (from a boiled egg) for my dessert.
All good - I know I need to keep at this as the results will come with time.
Giddyup!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Day 52
All going good on Day 52 and boy, Patrick was not joking on saying this is now the REAL PCP. Man these work outs are tough but they are really good. I ache all over (today sore back, triceps and the usual abs..).
Back is sore but nothing bad - but man, will I ever master the pull ups. I got through 4 sets unaided getting to the higher count but used a chair behind under my toes for the last 5th set. The abs workouts are killing me bth in pain and in technique. I will seek advice on the kung-fu sit ups as find myself quickly swinging versus doing them properly. (Check for Saturday please.)
Food is OK although honestly - I was tossing and turning last night as my stomach punished me for the indulgence. It (the indulgence I chose) was honestly not as crazy as what I contemplated (pizza, a burger perhaps) so my stomach is a lot more sensitive perhaps. Still got my Zzzz in as I was in bed early although partially the reason I took on this PCP challenge was to change my diet. A learning I guess is if I go back to my bad old ways (cheese, ham, bread) I will not have the energy, alertness and healthy feeling I have become accostomed to over the last weeks of PCP. More veges is the go; even at breakfast!
Still look forward to losing more stomach fat though - I am guessing and hoping my body will finally release these reserves knowing that - all is OK and this body is not going to starve.
Giddyup team: all great hey.
Back is sore but nothing bad - but man, will I ever master the pull ups. I got through 4 sets unaided getting to the higher count but used a chair behind under my toes for the last 5th set. The abs workouts are killing me bth in pain and in technique. I will seek advice on the kung-fu sit ups as find myself quickly swinging versus doing them properly. (Check for Saturday please.)
Food is OK although honestly - I was tossing and turning last night as my stomach punished me for the indulgence. It (the indulgence I chose) was honestly not as crazy as what I contemplated (pizza, a burger perhaps) so my stomach is a lot more sensitive perhaps. Still got my Zzzz in as I was in bed early although partially the reason I took on this PCP challenge was to change my diet. A learning I guess is if I go back to my bad old ways (cheese, ham, bread) I will not have the energy, alertness and healthy feeling I have become accostomed to over the last weeks of PCP. More veges is the go; even at breakfast!
Still look forward to losing more stomach fat though - I am guessing and hoping my body will finally release these reserves knowing that - all is OK and this body is not going to starve.
Giddyup team: all great hey.
Day 51
Yowza - did my indulgence which I thought would be a soft option but I feel FULL..
I debated around a number of things and then thought - what do I really miss which I would often have before PCP: that would be crusty bread and cheese.. yep a simple cheddar cheese sandwich - or a cream cheese sandwich; topped off with a big cup of tea with honey in it.
So that was it - no burger, no fries or pizza but two sandwiches - one with cheddar, one with cream cheese - cup o tea - and a bit of orange cake.
The bread and small bit of cake were from the Joël Robuchon bakery here at Roppongi Hills - fancy and I am sure full of butter.
Enjoyed it as I watched some old episodes of Seinfeld (still makes me laugh) on DVD.
Was super sore from yesterday's workout down at Patrick's studio yesterday (with George and Jason) so delayed today's workout until the afternoon. Today's workout was tough but took Patrick's advice to not "listen to that little voice in your head suggesting you quit short".. So pushed through and all the sets of each exercise were difficult. I am on the sofa with my laptop and my abs (remnants of them) ache as I lay here. Legs are sore too as are biceps and chest: but all good. Did entire workout in 45mins which includes skipping.
Must say indulgence was a let down.. wonder if I will always be like this. I feel full, (stuffed actually) the margarine (olive oil type) has left an oily aftertaste and I feel lethargic versus the recent energetic feeling I have had. Cake was no where near as enjoyable as I imagined as I bought it; thinking 'oh boy'.
Onwards and upwards..
So that was it - no burger, no fries or pizza but two sandwiches - one with cheddar, one with cream cheese - cup o tea - and a bit of orange cake.
The bread and small bit of cake were from the Joël Robuchon bakery here at Roppongi Hills - fancy and I am sure full of butter.
Enjoyed it as I watched some old episodes of Seinfeld (still makes me laugh) on DVD.
Was super sore from yesterday's workout down at Patrick's studio yesterday (with George and Jason) so delayed today's workout until the afternoon. Today's workout was tough but took Patrick's advice to not "listen to that little voice in your head suggesting you quit short".. So pushed through and all the sets of each exercise were difficult. I am on the sofa with my laptop and my abs (remnants of them) ache as I lay here. Legs are sore too as are biceps and chest: but all good. Did entire workout in 45mins which includes skipping.
Must say indulgence was a let down.. wonder if I will always be like this. I feel full, (stuffed actually) the margarine (olive oil type) has left an oily aftertaste and I feel lethargic versus the recent energetic feeling I have had. Cake was no where near as enjoyable as I imagined as I bought it; thinking 'oh boy'.
Onwards and upwards..
Friday, March 4, 2011
Day 50 - there ya go!
All great on Day 50. Going down to Yokohama to do my workout at Patrick's this afternoon although did the 8 minute abs workout this morning which is really good. With congratulatory compliments of "there ya go" from the Abs man in his stretchy pants and singlet - each part of the work-out is actually quite tough.
Outside that - did a good morning shop of veges so all set. Noticed I have lost some protein in my diet although have an added egg white at night. Photos for this week up: did a side shot which shows possibly why I have lost my belt sizes.
All great: Day 50 is here: giddyup - there ya go (mate!)
Outside that - did a good morning shop of veges so all set. Noticed I have lost some protein in my diet although have an added egg white at night. Photos for this week up: did a side shot which shows possibly why I have lost my belt sizes.
All great: Day 50 is here: giddyup - there ya go (mate!)
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Day 49: 8 minute Abs - what about 7 minute abs?
All great on Day 49. Did the jump rope and then finally - did the 8 Min Abs routine and man oh man what a very good and effective workout. I can feel the effects while I sit here and write this.
I must admit that I could not stop thinking about the 7 minute abs scene from "Something about Mary" "If you're not happy with the first 7 minutes, we're gonna send you the extra minute free". Either way - I recommend it for those who have not had a go at it. I think Aki is our 8 min abs queen and her rave about the video encouraged me to try it. The man in the video is very happy and expects to see you every 24 hours.
Feel sore today (per usual) but a good feeling. I would like to see proper abs in place of a belly but slowly but surely I hope.
Belt has finally come to the end of it's life. I have run out of holes.. From the start of this program I have come down 5 belt sizes to now the final one has become too loose.
I intend to use the weekend and think of new ways to do vegetables and ensure I have a larger range to choose from. Protein is fine - salmon, chicken and lamb (although lamb is once every week or so). Carbs - nothing white - although I have been doing this from the get-go thanks to received advice from past PCPers.
Tomorrow is Day 50 which is kind of a milestone. Certainly I see difference but no where near where I want to be. 40 more days is a good thing in my books where I am thoroughly enjoying this change.
Onward and upward!
I must admit that I could not stop thinking about the 7 minute abs scene from "Something about Mary" "If you're not happy with the first 7 minutes, we're gonna send you the extra minute free". Either way - I recommend it for those who have not had a go at it. I think Aki is our 8 min abs queen and her rave about the video encouraged me to try it. The man in the video is very happy and expects to see you every 24 hours.
Feel sore today (per usual) but a good feeling. I would like to see proper abs in place of a belly but slowly but surely I hope.
Belt has finally come to the end of it's life. I have run out of holes.. From the start of this program I have come down 5 belt sizes to now the final one has become too loose.
I intend to use the weekend and think of new ways to do vegetables and ensure I have a larger range to choose from. Protein is fine - salmon, chicken and lamb (although lamb is once every week or so). Carbs - nothing white - although I have been doing this from the get-go thanks to received advice from past PCPers.
Tomorrow is Day 50 which is kind of a milestone. Certainly I see difference but no where near where I want to be. 40 more days is a good thing in my books where I am thoroughly enjoying this change.
Onward and upward!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Day 48
Going good on Day 48. I will admit I am looking forward to the weekend - a tad exhausted from work and the workouts but all brilliantly good. Legs, butt and arms all sore this morning.
The weekend is all a lot easier. It means a sleep in (which is a luxury in this program with morning workouts) and opportunity to get organised with shopping for food.
The workouts are still all very hard - but they are not hard to keep to.
I was thinking this morning, as I walked past my local baker who I have not visited for 48 days, whether they might mistake me for someone who has had the ill fortune of being ill like Steve Jobs and suddlenly losing heaps of weight. I totally look different and most people who have not seen me say for 3 weeks are quick to ask what is going on. It's funny though I am now a fat person in a skinny-man's body. I still surprise myself in the mirror - with the occasional whoa (read - surprise).
All good on work outs and even with the increase again in the skipping. Pistols still hurt and I need the support of a chair to do them; getting better. Other exercises were good - especially the squats: finding them easy as muscles in legs are now stronger. V-sits are tough but also getting better. My last V-sits set was painful as I chugged out squeals of pain combined with screams of "go away" as one of my dogs licked my face to help.
Actually noticed my back is coming together well - muscles are firm with a hard look to it; only if my front could be the same. Well - there are 42 more days so I will get there.
Giddyup team.
The weekend is all a lot easier. It means a sleep in (which is a luxury in this program with morning workouts) and opportunity to get organised with shopping for food.
The workouts are still all very hard - but they are not hard to keep to.
I was thinking this morning, as I walked past my local baker who I have not visited for 48 days, whether they might mistake me for someone who has had the ill fortune of being ill like Steve Jobs and suddlenly losing heaps of weight. I totally look different and most people who have not seen me say for 3 weeks are quick to ask what is going on. It's funny though I am now a fat person in a skinny-man's body. I still surprise myself in the mirror - with the occasional whoa (read - surprise).
All good on work outs and even with the increase again in the skipping. Pistols still hurt and I need the support of a chair to do them; getting better. Other exercises were good - especially the squats: finding them easy as muscles in legs are now stronger. V-sits are tough but also getting better. My last V-sits set was painful as I chugged out squeals of pain combined with screams of "go away" as one of my dogs licked my face to help.
Actually noticed my back is coming together well - muscles are firm with a hard look to it; only if my front could be the same. Well - there are 42 more days so I will get there.
Giddyup team.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Day 47
Day 47 and going great although those Hong Kong Phooey sit ups are a killer: need more practice as failure comes quick: all good though.
Feeling absolutely great and on top of the world. I can certainly see improvements coming through. I will be shocked at weigh-in on Saturday if my stats are not good this week.
Welcome to the larger PCP family with an amazingly large new group with some good friends in there. For those who've come before us - thank you always for the comments and the advice - for those coming in after us - this is the best thing you will ever do.
My workout this morning was good. Jumping on time is a lot more enjoyable. I actually found myself enjoying the exercise sets and holding the last count for 3 seconds - as we do at Patrick's studio.
For anyone who has the luxury of time in the morning - workouts first thing are great.
Feeling absolutely great and on top of the world. I can certainly see improvements coming through. I will be shocked at weigh-in on Saturday if my stats are not good this week.
Welcome to the larger PCP family with an amazingly large new group with some good friends in there. For those who've come before us - thank you always for the comments and the advice - for those coming in after us - this is the best thing you will ever do.
My workout this morning was good. Jumping on time is a lot more enjoyable. I actually found myself enjoying the exercise sets and holding the last count for 3 seconds - as we do at Patrick's studio.
For anyone who has the luxury of time in the morning - workouts first thing are great.
Although something Patrick taught me though - for those wishing to build up muscle (ie, losing weight not an issue) - afternoon work outs are better. In my case due to my work I have the choice or early mornings (5am) or late nights 8pm workouts. Late night workouts affect sleep patterns so early get ups for me (additionally - I need to lose weight which is best first thing.). If ever in doubt - ask Patrick in your question chains.
This is my brekky of this morning: nice tasting tomatoes, garlic rice with egg (had 30g of rice left over from my lunch carb quota today) over a thin slice of rye. Yes, on reading Patrick's email this morning I need to mix it up on veges in the morning a little more - still a challenge.. but manageable.
Onward and upward team: Day 50 is coming up quick!
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