No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! Week 7 Relaxing Total Body Stretching Workout for Stress Relief and Better Sleep

Despite not being able to lift heavy weights or do all the different types of bodyweight exercises that I once loved, I can definitely stretch! This stretching work out is exactly what my tight sore muscles need.

Modify where ever you might need to!

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No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #52 Women’s Health 5-Minute Total-Body Toning One-Dumbbell Workout

Happy New Year’s Eve!A  full year of No Gym? No Problem! Workouts completed!

You’ll do 5 moves in 5 minutes with minimal rest between moves. You can complete this set once for a super quick workout, or replay the video 3-5 times for a total of 15 to 25 minutes of exercise. All you need is a single dumbbell.

  1. Sumo Squat
  2. Offset Lunge
  3. Offset Lunge with Over Head Press
  4. Woodchop Squat
  5. Dumbbell Pull-Through

Remember to keep good proper form, warm up before, and stretch after you exercise!

Are you enjoying these “No Gym? No Problem!” posts?  If so, you can check out the rest by clicking HERE!

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I would love for you to follow me on TwitterInstagramPinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all four.

No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #32 Popsugar 30-Minute No-Equipment Barre Sculpting Workout

 Sculpt, stretch, and sweat with this no-equipment workout from Barre Belle creator Marnie Alton. Take 30 minutes and improve your day! Your health and wellness are worth it!  Remember to keep proper form and warm up before, and stretch after you exercise!

For more from Marnie, visit:

http://www.labarrebelle.com/

https://www.instagram.com/marniealton/

https://www.instagram.com/labarrebelle/

Are you enjoying these “No Gym? No Problem!” posts?  If so, you can check out the rest by clicking HERE!

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I would love for you to follow me on TwitterPinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.

No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #28 Popsugar 300 Calories in 30 Minutes Workout With Weights

Take 30 minutes and improve your day! Your health and wellness are worth it!  Remember to keep proper form and warm up before, and stretch after you exercise!

 

Are you enjoying these “No Gym? No Problem!” posts?  If so, you can check out the rest by clicking HERE!

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I would love for you to follow me on TwitterPinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.

Jillian Michaels Body Revolution

Review of Body Revolution by Jillian Michaels Cardio 1 and 2

**See below for an update 06/03/23.

The Body Revolution program consists of 3 phases that claim to lead to “total body transformation.” It is a 90-day program with 6 workouts a week and one day to rest.  Each phase consists of 4 metabolic training workouts and one cardio workout.  Each workout is “only” 30 minutes long.  Even numbered workouts work the front of the body, oddly numbered workouts concentrate on working the back of the body.  Every workout works the abdominals.

What is included with the purchase of Jillian Michael’s Body Revolution:

15 DVDs
resistance cable
fitness guide
90-day journal
“customizable” 90-day fat-burning meal plan,
FREE 30-day web club access
bonus 7 day Kick Start Your Metabolism diet plan that will help to “detox your body and curb your food cravings or addictions.”

jillian-michaels-body-revolution | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

The first phase is 4 weeks and includes workouts 1-4 and the cardio level 1 workout. The second phase is 4 weeks and includes workouts 5-8 and the cardio level 2 workout.

Phase 1 Cardio 1 for Weeks 1 through 4

What will you need?  Good supportive athletic shoes, that’s it.

While this phase is meant to be low impact you will still be sore when you first start out.

No warm up for this workout, it starts right up with the circuit.  Each of the eight parts is done for one minute and repeated through twice for a total of three times.

Jillian Michaels Body Revolution Cardio 1 Review | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Workout:
1. March in place
2. Hot/fast feet
3. Punch it out in a half squat position
4. Jog in place
5. Running Man (I HATE this one)
6. Speed bags (doing this for 1 minute is a lot harder than you might think it would be.)
7. Kick outs with arm circles (Jillian also calls them mummy kicks)
8. Suicides

Repeat twice.

Cool Down/Stretches

After finishing the weeks of phase one and two and now moving on to cardio workout 3,   I was super sore from the workouts the first two days, but after that not much at all.

Here is one of my very favorite Jillian Micheals quotes:

“This is where it matters the most. This is where lives are made, in these moments when you can choose whether or not to say ‘I cant’ or ‘I can.’ It is a choice that will either make or break you for life.”

Phase 2 Cardio 2 for Weeks 5 through 8

What will you need?  Good supportive athletic shoes, that’s it.

No warm-up for this workout, it starts right up with the circuit.  Each of the fourteen parts is done for 30 seconds and repeated through twice for a total of three times.

Workout:
1. Jump rope
2. Butt Kicks
3. High Knees
4.Alternating Knee Strikes
5. Jumping Jacks
6. Fast Feet
7. Skiers
8. Skaters
9. Plié Hops
10. Cross Jacks
11.Upper Cuts
12. Towel Runs Right then Left
13. Hooks Right then Left
14. Burpees (I HATE burpees, but then again, who doesn’t.)

Repeat twice.

Cool Down/Stretches

I love this workout.  I think that because each of the moves only lasts for 30 seconds it is much more tolerable and enjoyable!

I hope this was helpful if you are trying to decide if Jillian Michaels Body Revolution is right for you!

Here is another of my very favorite Jillian Micheals quotes:

“Many are so preoccupied with what others think it defines their existence. When we fixate externally, it keeps us from truly knowing ourselves and our destiny. Most [people] fear looking inward for worry they won’t find greatness, but when you stop allowing others to define your worth, you’ll see—greatness exists in us all, waiting to be
 expressed”

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I would love for you to follow me on TwitterPinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.

**Update 06/03/2023:

The following statement reflects my personal experience and should not be construed as a universal condemnation or endorsement of any specific approach to exercise and dieting, including that of Jillian Michaels. It is crucial to acknowledge that individual experiences may vary, and what works positively for one person may have different outcomes for another. This update aims to highlight a specific personal situation and the impact it had on my mental health while recognizing the potential benefits of certain approaches.

I would like to share that I had previously found success in improving my physical state through the approach advocated by Jillian Michaels. It helped me achieve notable physical results, which I am grateful for. However, it is essential to recognize that along with other life circumstances, this approach also had detrimental effects on my mental health.

While the approach focused on aspects like intense workouts and strict dietary restrictions, I found myself constantly striving for unrealistic standards and pushing my body beyond its limits. The intense pressure I placed on myself, coupled with the strict regimen, had a negative impact on my overall well-being. I experienced feelings of guilt, anxiety, and a distorted perception of my body image, which significantly affected my mental health.

It is important to understand that personal circumstances, including mental health, can greatly influence the outcomes and experiences related to any exercise or dieting approach. What might work positively for one individual may lead to adverse effects for another. Our mental and emotional well-being should never be sacrificed for the sole pursuit of physical transformation.

It is crucial to prioritize our holistic health, which encompasses physical, mental, and emotional aspects. This may involve adopting an approach that encourages self-compassion, self-acceptance, and a balanced lifestyle. Consulting with healthcare professionals or seeking guidance from qualified experts who specialize in mental health, nutrition, and fitness can be beneficial in developing a personalized and sustainable approach.

In conclusion, this update serves as a personal reflection on the impact of a specific approach to exercise and dieting on my mental health. It is essential to recognize the potential benefits and limitations of any approach, understanding that individual experiences and circumstances can greatly influence the outcomes. It is crucial to prioritize mental well-being alongside physical health and to seek professional advice when making changes to your exercise or dieting routine to ensure a balanced and sustainable approach.

No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #26 Six Minute Standing Ab Workout

This ab workout it literally 6 minutes long!  Six minutes!!!  You definitely have time for this one!  You won’t even have to get down onto the ground.  Keep your abs engaged and remember to breathe.

6 Minute Standing Ab Workout: A Great Ab Workout without the Floor

Do you have 6 minutes to improve your health and wellness? Yes, You Do! No Excuses, Just do it! Remember to keep good proper form, warm up before, and stretch after you exercise!

Are you enjoying these “No Gym? No Problem!” posts?  If so, you can check out the rest by clicking HERE!

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I would love for you to follow me on TwitterPinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.

Health/ Fitness · Jillian Michaels Body Revolution

Review of Body Revolution by Jillian Michaels Phase 1 Workouts 3 and 4

**Please see update below.

Did you think that I totally forgot about these?  Nope, I didn’t!  My sore muscles haven’t forgotten either! 😉

The Body Revolution program consists of 3 phases that claim to lead to “total body transformation.” It is a 90-day program with 6 workouts a week and one day to rest.  Each phase consists of 4 metabolic training workouts and one cardio workout.  Each workout is “only” 30 minutes long.  Even numbered workouts work the front of the body, odd numbered workouts concentrate on working the back of the body.  Every workout works the abdominals.

What is included with the purchase of Jillian Michael’s Body Revolution:

15 DVDs
resistance cable
fitness guide
90-day journal
“customizable” 90-day fat-burning meal plan,
FREE 30-day web club access
bonus 7 day Kick Start Your Metabolism diet plan that will help to “detox your body and curb your food cravings or addictions.”

The first phase is 4 weeks and includes workouts 1-4 and the cardio level 1 workout.

Here is a review of  Phase 1 Workouts 3 and 4:

Phase 1 Workout 3 for Weeks 3 and 4

What will you need?  exercise mat and free weights (3, 5 or 8 lbs depending on your strength level) 
Get ready to squat!
  Regular squats, sumo squats, chair squats, and step out step in squats.

wpid-wp-1447122272758.jpg

Just like workout 1, workout 3 is focused on the front of the body.  It incorporates some yoga moves as well as strength training.  Right away you will notice that the workout is more intense than 1+2, but you will also notice how much stronger you already are.
Where can you expect to be sore the next day?  

  • Chest
  • Shoulders,
  • Abs,
  • Triceps
  • Quads

The workout is broken down into 4 circuits; each of which are repeated once with  one minute of cardio  in between the circuit repetition.  Some of these things are harder to name/explain.

Here is a breakdown of phase one workout one

Warm-up

  • Jumping Jacks
  • Cat Cow Stretch
  • High Kicks
  • Lateral Leg Swings R/L
  • Jumping Jacks

Circuit 1:

  •  Push-ups
  • Down Dog with ankle grab R/L
  • Alternating Backwards Lunges-advanced modification-add weights
  • Plank walks outs

Cardio -1 minute Jumprope

Circuit 2:

  • Sumo Squats with tricep extension-advanced modification- add heavier weights
  •  Camel yoga pose with ankle stretch (looks a lot easier than it is.)
  • Squat press -advanced modification-add heavier weights
  • Cable press with static lunge

Cardio -1 minute Punches with half squat-repeat circuit 2

Circuit 3:

  • Plank to Crescent pose back to plank
  • Crab position with dip
  • Side Crunches R/L

Cardio -1 minute- Plie Hops-repeat circuit 3

Circuit 4:

  • Tree pose with Lateral raises-use lighter weights – right
  • Plank ups (these are so hard, but I love them)
  • Tree pose with Lateral raises-use liter weights – left
  • Inchworm crunches

Cardio -1 minute-Skiers-repeat circuit 4

Cool Down/Stretches

 

“You have no idea the strength you have within you!”

Phase 1 Workout 4 for Weeks 3 and 4

Like workout 2, workout 4 is focused on the back of the body but has more compound movements than the earlier 2 workouts.

jillian-michaels-body-revolution | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

What will you need?  exercise mat and free weights (3, 5 or 8 lbs depending on your strength level)

While this phase is still meant to be low impact you will still be sore when you first start out.
Where can you expect to be sore the next day?  

  • Back
  • Biceps
  • Glutes
  • Hamstrings
  • Abs

The workout is broken down into 4 circuits; each of which are repeated once with  one minute of cardio  in between the circuit repetition.

comfortable with being uncomfortable | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Here is a breakdown of phase one workout four:

Warm-up

  • Butt Kicks
  • Single Leg Hip/Glute Stretch
  • Backwards Arm Circles
  • Repeat

Circuit 1:

  •  Alternating forward Lunges
  • Static Squat with a Medium Row
  • Single Leg Deadlift with Upright Row
  • Opposite Leg Deadlift

Cardio -1 minute Plyo Skaters -repeat circuit 1

Circuit 2:

  • Side Lunge Bicep Curl
  •  Bent Over Wide Row High and Wide
  • With arms holding weights strait up, step back with front knee down onto the ground into kneeling position back up to standing with weights lifted over the head the entire time (does that even make any sense?  Trust me, it is super hard and not fun at all!)

Cardio -1 minute-Alternate step up/hops with weights-repeat circuit 2

Circuit 3:

  • Side laying single leg lift with heavy weight
  • Plank with alternating leg raise
  • Side laying single leg lift with heavy weight opposite side
  • Hollowman

Cardio -1 minute- Fast Feet-repeat circuit 3

Circuit 4:

  • Terry Pulls right side (looks easy, but if done correctly it is a lot harder that it seems)
  • Good Mornings with 2 heavy weights
  • Terry Pulls left side (not an ab move, think about the terry muscles that you are using.)
  • Swarms (crunch up and rotate touching your ankles.)

Cardio -1 minute-Jab Cross Hook Upper Cut Combo- repeat circuit 4

Cool Down/Stretches

Since I haven’t written about Body revolution in a while, I finished phase one and now moved on to the second half of phase 1-workouts 3 and 4.   I was super sore from the workouts the first two days, but after that not much at all.
I will write a detailed review of Workout 2 and Cardio 1 soon.

If you are interested in my review of Workouts 1+2 and Cardio 1 click HERE.

I hope this was helpful if you are trying to decide if Jillian Michaels Body Revolution is right for you!

One of Jillian Micheals’ strong points is her motivational quotes:

This is where it matters the most. This is where lives are made, in these moments when you can choose whether or not to say ‘I cant’ or ‘I can.’ It is a choice that will either make or break you for life.

lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

I would love for you to follow me on TwitterPinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.

**Update:

Initially, I found Jillian Michaels’ approach to exercise and dieting highly motivational. Her intense workouts and strict dietary guidelines pushed me to achieve remarkable physical results, which fueled my motivation and determination. I embraced her no-nonsense attitude and believed that pushing my body to its limits was the only way to achieve success. However, as time went on, I began to realize that this approach was taking a toll on my mental health. The relentless pursuit of physical perfection and the constant pressure I placed on myself led to feelings of anxiety, guilt, and a distorted body image. It was then that I decided to change my perspective and adopt a more balanced and loving approach to my body. By prioritizing self-compassion, listening to my body’s needs, and embracing acceptance, I discovered a newfound sense of mental well-being. This shift in thinking allowed me to find joy in movement, cultivate a positive relationship with my body, and ultimately, achieve a healthier and more sustainable approach to overall well-being.

No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #6

I recently started doing something that I have been interested in doing for a while now…  I have been teaching a weekly exercise class at my church.  I was both nervous and excited about getting started.

no gym no problem | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

The classes have gone really well and it has been a lot of fun!  I have enjoyed planning the workouts as well as figuring out how to make it work for a group of people with different levels of fitness.

Since we are all at different levels of health and fitness, I included a lower intensity option as well as a higher intensity one.

Here is the workout that we did together the first week:

5 min warm up of a slower smaller versions of the exercises to be done during the circuit workout.

2 sets of 9 Circuits:
45 sec on with 15 sec “active rest”

1. March
2. Hot feet/wide march
3. Kick backs
4. High knees/Knee lifts
5. Punches/reaches with side steps
6. Jogging 4 in place 4 forward 4 back
7. Mummy kicks/heel digs
8. Skater/back cross kick
9. Boxer shuffle with squat and reach

2 min cool down with 5 min stretches.

30 min total

Take 15-30 minutes and improve your day! Your heath and wellness is worth it!

Let me know if you try out the workout and what you think!

Remember to keep good proper form! Chest up, shoulders down, knees behind the toes, above the ankles. Warm up before, and stretch after you exercise! Soreness equals success!

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I would love for you to follow me on TwitterInstagram, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.  I would also love to follow you on Instagram and Twitter as well, so let me know your user name in the comment section below!

Health/ Fitness

Pre Workout Snacks

Starting out on a health and wellness journey can be tough.  Let’s face it what to eat, when, and how much can all be a little confusing. 

Food is fuel and what you do eat is just as important as what you don’t eat.

Carbs = energy. When we eat them, they break down into glucose, enter our muscle cells, and give us fuel to exercise.

Since they are digested quickly and provide energy, it is a good idea to eat simple carbohydrates before a workout.

The ideal time to eat is between 30 minutes to three hours before your workout.

Here are a few examples of my favorites pre-workout snacks.

Avocado, Eggs, and toast

Try 1 or 2 eggs with 1 slice of whole-wheat toast and half of an avocado, sprinkle with a little bit of salt and pepper.

avocado affirmation | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
I just couldn’t resist putting this in here, lol!

PB & B toast

1-2 tablespoons of all-natural peanut butter and half a sliced banana on whole-wheat toast

Apple with Peanut Butter

Slice up 1 medium apple and serve with 2 tablespoons peanut butter.

Apple with String Cheese

Don’t have time to fuss around in the kitchen?  Well here is a quick grab and go snack.  2 stick part-skim milk mozzarella string cheese and a medium apple.

Clementines and Almonds

Another quick grab and go snack: 2 small clementines and a hand full of almonds.

Eggs and toast

Try 1 or 2 eggs with 1 slice of whole-wheat toast or thin bagel and half of a banana.

Breakfast of Champions | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

 Fruit smoothie

One scoop of your favorite whey protein powder with ½ cup ice, and 1 cup frozen berries.

My favorite protein powder is the Trader Joe’s Darwin’s Whey Chocolate Protein Powder, yum!

Making Smoothies Even Easier | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Yogurt parfait

Top 1/4 cup nonfat yogurt with ½ cup whole grain cereal and ½ cup fresh strawberries.

Fruit and Oatmeal

My favorite thing to eat pre workout is 1/2 cup of rolled oats with half a banana two cut up strawberries and 2 tsp of chia seeds.

oatmeal and fruit | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Energy Bites
Remember these energy bites from a previous post?  I love these things both pre and post workout! Click HERE for the link to the recipe for these delicious energy bites.
Healthier Energy Bites | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Notice a pattern?  Carbohydrate paired with protein.  Now get up and get your workout in!

Keep in mind that everyone’s body is different and will have its own specific needs and preferences.  Find what works for you and what you like.

lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

I would love for you to follow me on TwitterInstagram, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.  I would also love to follow you on Instagram and Twitter as well, so let me know your username in the comment section below!

No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #52

A  full year of No Gym? No Problem! workouts completed!

You’ll do 5 moves in 5 minutes with minimal rest between moves. You can complete this set once for a super quick workout, or replay the video 3-5 times for a total of 15 to 25 minutes of exercise. All you need is a single dumbbell.

  1. Sumo Squat
  2. Offset Lunge
  3. Offset Lunge with Over Head Press
  4. Woodchop Squat
  5. Dumbbell Pull Through

Remember to keep good proper form, warm up before, and stretch after you exercise!

Are you enjoying these “No Gym? No Problem!” posts?  If so, you can check out the rest by clicking HERE!

lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

I would love for you to follow me on TwitterInstagram, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.  I would also love to follow you on Instagram and Twitter as well, so let me know your user name in the comment section below!