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Cali's Road to the big 4-0

Today was shoulder day in the gym and it was a pretty good workout overall. My arm is a bit sore tonight but compared to where it's been, I'm pretty pleased with it.

I had quite a few warms up stretches and a couple of sets for warm up.

Shoulder Press
4 sets of 10 with 15 lb dbs

supersetted with

Front Raises
4 sets of 12 with 10 lb dbs

Side Raises
3 sets of 10 with 10 lb dbs

supersetted with

Barbell Upright Row
3 sets of 10 with 30 lb bb

Ended with..

Reverse Pec Deck
2 sets of 10 @45 lbs
1 set of 10 with 60 lbs

22 mins cardio.

My nutrition has been better today and I can definitely feel it tonight, as I've had more energy tonight then I have in a few days. It's always amazing to me, as I've gotten to know my body, what a difference food makes in how you feel.

Weigh in day tomorrow..the end of week 2 of 4. Time flies!!

Sleep well my EF friends! :)
 
Cg thats a nice workout well planned out think this is going to be great place to start your big come back! well done girl!
 
Thanks CB!! I appreciate the words. I'm doing pretty good, all things considered but just need to get that structure in place..the default plan you speak of. I love the DBS...that gives me a great visual to picture!! We are definitely the rock! :)

P.S. I would love to have "the rock" lol ;)

Here you go!
 
Lookin good Cali! How is that shoulder felling? I screwed one of mine up a few years ago doing dips too sucked ass took forever to heal. It's still not 100%. Anyway keep killen it girl!!!
 
Weigh in results this morning..

Last week: 173.8
Today: 171.4

Down 2.4 this week.
Total down 7.8 with the goal being 10 lbs in 4 weeks.

I have 2 weeks to go.

Good news this morning!! Always motivating to keep kicking it up a notch. :)
 
Time for an update since it's been a few days.

Even though this update won't sound very positive, it really is. So keep that in mind when reading. :)

The last few days have had some unexpected personal and physical challenges and I haven't been in the gym in 3 days. It seems like when it rains, it pours and I've just been pretty fatigued from yet more stress.

That being said, it's helped me to really evaluate where I'm at in terms of goals, which is what this 4 week period was all about. I won't make a final decision until next weekend, at the end of the 4 weeks, but I am leaning towards not starting the official contest prep on Jan 21. If I did, it would be 22 weeks out and I'd have to kick in to heavy duty prep mode and I honestly do not feel that I'm 100% there yet. I can smile and do all the "ra ra" cheering but reality is a little bit different. Prep, in my opinion, is something you need to be totally committed to....ya gotta be there 110% mentally and it involves a lot of sacrifice in the other areas of your life. My life has been so unsettled and stressful in the last 8 months and I honestly just don't think I have it in me to put myself right back into a stressful situation! A different stress but stress still the same and I'd be kidding myself if I said I wouldn't be chronically stressed hitting prep in a week. I need a month or two of just calmness and peace and the ability to focus on myself without running myself ragged.

There is a beauty to the sport, though, and that is that the stage will always be there.

Like I said, I'll decide for sure in another week but that is where I'm leaning. I'm going to continue to diet and train and keep moving in that direction but I still want the flexibility that will allow me adequate rest, guilt free if I miss a meal or a cardio session and I need to continue to build up my training regimen and strength. So...the goal has changed only in the sense of the timeline and urgency. And....if I still want to compete, I can hit prep mode in April or May and be in a much better position to start it. Hopefully, life will have settled down, I'll be in better shape physically and ready to hit it really hard.

I'm still gonna look good for the big 40th though. That is not an option!! :)
 
Hey Cg Im on
Y way out now will reply soon as I get back. Just a quick note tho you don't beat yourself up chic it's just a glitch what doesn't kill us makes us stronger. You guna be killa for your 40th I promise you.


Donna
 
Hey Cg Im on
Y way out now will reply soon as I get back. Just a quick note tho you don't beat yourself up chic it's just a glitch what doesn't kill us makes us stronger. You guna be killa for your 40th I promise you.


Donna

I agree with Donna.
you know when its so dark out and you making a trip somewhere and the only lights are the headlight from your car to guide you, and you can only see the next few feet on the road. you cant see the end of road to your destination but if you keep driving another 20 feet will be illuminated and then the next and before you know it your there. if you hit a little rock or bump, no biggie, you'll still get to your destination if you just keep driving, no need to stop on that dark road halfway and fret about a little bump. Just blast some music and keep on rolling and you'll be there before you know it!
 
Time for an update since it's been a few days.

Even though this update won't sound very positive, it really is. So keep that in mind when reading. :)

The last few days have had some unexpected personal and physical challenges and I haven't been in the gym in 3 days. It seems like when it rains, it pours and I've just been pretty fatigued from yet more stress.

That being said, it's helped me to really evaluate where I'm at in terms of goals, which is what this 4 week period was all about. I won't make a final decision until next weekend, at the end of the 4 weeks, but I am leaning towards not starting the official contest prep on Jan 21. If I did, it would be 22 weeks out and I'd have to kick in to heavy duty prep mode and I honestly do not feel that I'm 100% there yet. I can smile and do all the "ra ra" cheering but reality is a little bit different. Prep, in my opinion, is something you need to be totally committed to....ya gotta be there 110% mentally and it involves a lot of sacrifice in the other areas of your life. My life has been so unsettled and stressful in the last 8 months and I honestly just don't think I have it in me to put myself right back into a stressful situation! A different stress but stress still the same and I'd be kidding myself if I said I wouldn't be chronically stressed hitting prep in a week. I need a month or two of just calmness and peace and the ability to focus on myself without running myself ragged.

There is a beauty to the sport, though, and that is that the stage will always be there.

Like I said, I'll decide for sure in another week but that is where I'm leaning. I'm going to continue to diet and train and keep moving in that direction but I still want the flexibility that will allow me adequate rest, guilt free if I miss a meal or a cardio session and I need to continue to build up my training regimen and strength. So...the goal has changed only in the sense of the timeline and urgency. And....if I still want to compete, I can hit prep mode in April or May and be in a much better position to start it. Hopefully, life will have settled down, I'll be in better shape physically and ready to hit it really hard.

I'm still gonna look good for the big 40th though. That is not an option!! :)

Sigh. You have no idea how much better I feel after reading this. :)

I'm a big old stress ball too. My husband has been unemployed for eight months and we're trying to start our own business but we keep getting doors shut in our faces. Add to that, I went back to work this week and I'm not a big fan of my job.

By nature, I'm an emotional eater. I wouldn't say I binge or even overeat, but I also don't often deny a craving, within limitation of course. On day 7, I wanted to give in to that craving. I didn't though. And today, I wanted waffle fries bc I could smell them in the air while walking across campus. Grrrrr!!! I still didn't cave.

Life is hard. Dieting is harder. :) I am gonna push it til the end of the month and then reassess. I like having the goal of the competition. It gives me something to train for and it does inspire me. And I've been so public about entering this contest to keep me accountable to it.

So I'll see what I look like at the end of January. If I'm not happy with the progress, I'll set a new goal.

So I talked all about myself here in order to relay this most important point: I totally feel ya, girl. :) I know exactly what you're talking about and I'm so glad there's someone else out there that "gets it" too.

I'm glad to know you've made peace with your goals. That is one thing-well, another thing, actually lol- that I'm still grappling with.
 
Hey Cg Im on
Y way out now will reply soon as I get back. Just a quick note tho you don't beat yourself up chic it's just a glitch what doesn't kill us makes us stronger. You guna be killa for your 40th I promise you.


Donna

Thanks Donna! I'm actually feeling a great sense of peace about it and that's how I always know the decision is a good one. I'm determined to get there but was putting too much pressure on myself to get there too fast. I'll definitely be rocking it for the 40th! That I am excited about!! :)
 
I agree with Donna.
you know when its so dark out and you making a trip somewhere and the only lights are the headlight from your car to guide you, and you can only see the next few feet on the road. you cant see the end of road to your destination but if you keep driving another 20 feet will be illuminated and then the next and before you know it your there. if you hit a little rock or bump, no biggie, you'll still get to your destination if you just keep driving, no need to stop on that dark road halfway and fret about a little bump. Just blast some music and keep on rolling and you'll be there before you know it!

Thanks Ebony. I love the analogy and it's so true. Just a bump in the road! I think there are times when it's just better to enjoy the journey. :)
 
Sigh. You have no idea how much better I feel after reading this. :)

I'm a big old stress ball too. My husband has been unemployed for eight months and we're trying to start our own business but we keep getting doors shut in our faces. Add to that, I went back to work this week and I'm not a big fan of my job.

By nature, I'm an emotional eater. I wouldn't say I binge or even overeat, but I also don't often deny a craving, within limitation of course. On day 7, I wanted to give in to that craving. I didn't though. And today, I wanted waffle fries bc I could smell them in the air while walking across campus. Grrrrr!!! I still didn't cave.

Life is hard. Dieting is harder. :) I am gonna push it til the end of the month and then reassess. I like having the goal of the competition. It gives me something to train for and it does inspire me. And I've been so public about entering this contest to keep me accountable to it.

So I'll see what I look like at the end of January. If I'm not happy with the progress, I'll set a new goal.

So I talked all about myself here in order to relay this most important point: I totally feel ya, girl. :) I know exactly what you're talking about and I'm so glad there's someone else out there that "gets it" too.

I'm glad to know you've made peace with your goals. That is one thing-well, another thing, actually lol- that I'm still grappling with.

A big hug for ya FC! I really feel for you with you and your hubby and trying to create opportunities, health issues etc.

I'm probably about 95% sure but I know that feeling of being inspired and excited by the competition goal too. And then I think...am I really ready to jump into daily double cardio? plus weights? plus strict meal planning? I haven't even written up my diet from last week yet! LOL

I've learned to give it a few days when making those types of decisions. So I like your idea of pushing forward to month end and then seeing how you're feeling. Keep going and see how life unfolds for you over the next couple of weeks. But...if you really feel like it's not the right time, don't be too hard on yourself or feel worried about what others think. Unless someone has walked that road, they just don't know, and they don't have to walk in your shoes.

I figure...I can go slower now, finish clearing my backyard of crap, so to speak, and be in a much better position to start a prep in a few months. I'd like to get a good majority of my weight off before May and then still prep at a decent pace for October.

That's the tentative plan now anyway! You know us women..it'll change 8 times in the next 24 hours! LOL
 
I had a great workout tonight and felt like a million bucks leaving the gym. I'll post up my workout tomorrow but trained chest and got in some cardio and stretching from the doc. I actually tried out the bench dips and the push ups the doc told me to do. I felt a slight tweak in my tricep on the 5th dip so didn't do anymore of those but made it through 3 sets of 10 pushups off the smith machine bar. He told me to use the bar or a bosu ball. I think I could have done more dips but had that fear and didn't want to push it. It's a starting place and a real confidence booster in terms of where my healing is at.

I'm off to bed and boy am I gonna sleep tonight!

Sleep well my EF girls and guys and more updates and random gym thoughts tomorrow. :)
 
I wasn't in the gym Wednesday as my sister had some emergency surgery (discovered an ectopic pregnancy) so I spent the evening at the hospital with her very anxious hubby.

As tired as I felt yesterday, I hit the gym and had a really good workout. I'm moving over to a max ot style training to start building my strength back up. I love this style of training and have seen great results with it in the past, so am excited to do a round of it. Last night, I trained back/ bis and probably hit about 70% of my max of where I left off pre injury.

I didn't really max out though on any lifts but wanted to get a feel for where I was and where I can start the official split next week. My arm/ shoulder are holding strong!

Max ot has 5 warm up sets to start....reps start from 12 and drop to 1, as weight increases, followed by 2-3 working sets. I won't be logging the warm up sets here but just so you know they're there.

Seated row/ narrow grip
3 sets of 6 - 100 lbs

Lat pull down/ wide grip
75 lbs - 6
90 lbs - 6
95 lbs - 6 (will start here next time)

Straight arm pull down
90 lbs - 6
95 lbs- 6
100 lbs - 6 (start here)

Hammer curls
17.5 lbs - 15
20 lbs - 8
22.5 lbs - 6

22 mins cardio. Moderate intensity. My knees have been killing the last two days (leftover pains from years of playing basketball and skiing) but everytime the weather changes, I feel it and we are heading for a really freaking cold streak here (-30c)!!! Needless to say....achy knees.

I'm feeling physically stronger everyday!
 
Hey so sorry to hear bout your sister hope she's going to be ok,
And a big massive well done to you chic 70% of we're you left off before injury is incredible I had no idea you wre picking up pace like that,
 
Hey so sorry to hear bout your sister hope she's going to be ok,
And a big massive well done to you chic 70% of we're you left off before injury is incredible I had no idea you wre picking up pace like that,

Thanks Donna. She seems to be doing pretty well, all things considered.

Back is one of my strengths and most of the lifts don't aggravate my injuries, but I'm sure the chest/ shoulder won't be quite as strong but....definitely moving in the right direction. :)
 
I wasn't in the gym Wednesday as my sister had some emergency surgery (discovered an ectopic pregnancy) so I spent the evening at the hospital with her very anxious hubby.

As tired as I felt yesterday, I hit the gym and had a really good workout. I'm moving over to a max ot style training to start building my strength back up. I love this style of training and have seen great results with it in the past, so am excited to do a round of it. Last night, I trained back/ bis and probably hit about 70% of my max of where I left off pre injury.

I didn't really max out though on any lifts but wanted to get a feel for where I was and where I can start the official split next week. My arm/ shoulder are holding strong!

Max ot has 5 warm up sets to start....reps start from 12 and drop to 1, as weight increases, followed by 2-3 working sets. I won't be logging the warm up sets here but just so you know they're there.

Seated row/ narrow grip
3 sets of 6 - 100 lbs

Lat pull down/ wide grip
75 lbs - 6
90 lbs - 6
95 lbs - 6 (will start here next time)

Straight arm pull down
90 lbs - 6
95 lbs- 6
100 lbs - 6 (start here)

Hammer curls
17.5 lbs - 15
20 lbs - 8
22.5 lbs - 6

22 mins cardio. Moderate intensity. My knees have been killing the last two days (leftover pains from years of playing basketball and skiing) but everytime the weather changes, I feel it and we are heading for a really freaking cold streak here (-30c)!!! Needless to say....achy knees.

I'm feeling physically stronger everyday!

Seriously... These similarities between the two of us have gotta stop! :) I too was a baller from the age of 8 all the way thru college. My knees suck! And after legs yesterday, they were done! :)
 
Seriously... These similarities between the two of us have gotta stop! :) I too was a baller from the age of 8 all the way thru college. My knees suck! And after legs yesterday, they were done! :)


LOL...so cool!! I played all the way through the college days and I remember when I stopped being part of a team, I really felt like I'd lost a part of my identity. It was a weird time having to learn how to re-define myself. But somedays, now....even walking up and down stairs is a killer. :)
 
LOL...so cool!! I played all the way through the college days and I remember when I stopped being part of a team, I really felt like I'd lost a part of my identity. It was a weird time having to learn how to re-define myself. But somedays, now....even walking up and down stairs is a killer. :)

I hear you there, sista. That's why I like to think of this crew as a team... corny? yes. But it works in my brain.

re: the knees. Yes. It takes me almost 30 minutes to get moving in the morning with all the creaking and popping. It's bad. But if this body isn't used up by the time my soul leaves it I haven't done my job :)

It sounds like you're making excellent progress. Goal #1=NO MORE INJURIES!!!!!!!!!! Do you swim/bike/row? There are so many other choices for cardio other than the traditional weight-bearing stuff. Every time I go to the gym there's a new freaking spaceship-elliptical. I'm kind of scared to get on some of them!

Last thought, and then I'll shut up, working with and around an injury is a great time to focus on diet. Are you taking the high dose C, collagen, zinc, fish oil, glutamine, yadda yadda yadda? Nutrition is so much more than calories. I know you know this but I always benefit from the reminder. Happy to be a second set of eyes if you want. xo
 
Thanks Donna. She seems to be doing pretty well, all things considered.

Back is one of my strengths and most of the lifts don't aggravate my injuries, but I'm sure the chest/ shoulder won't be quite as strong but....definitely moving in the right direction. :)

Glad to hear your sister is OK.

I know all about injuries and how frustrating they can be just take it slow and listen to your body and you'll get that strength back up! I agree 100% with CB nutrition and the bicycle has done wonders for my knees!

Keep it up there's no place left to go but up! ;)
 
I hear you there, sista. That's why I like to think of this crew as a team... corny? yes. But it works in my brain.

re: the knees. Yes. It takes me almost 30 minutes to get moving in the morning with all the creaking and popping. It's bad. But if this body isn't used up by the time my soul leaves it I haven't done my job :)

It sounds like you're making excellent progress. Goal #1=NO MORE INJURIES!!!!!!!!!! Do you swim/bike/row? There are so many other choices for cardio other than the traditional weight-bearing stuff. Every time I go to the gym there's a new freaking spaceship-elliptical. I'm kind of scared to get on some of them!

Last thought, and then I'll shut up, working with and around an injury is a great time to focus on diet. Are you taking the high dose C, collagen, zinc, fish oil, glutamine, yadda yadda yadda? Nutrition is so much more than calories. I know you know this but I always benefit from the reminder. Happy to be a second set of eyes if you want. xo

I totally agree! We have a good team going here. It's a great place to check in, have some fun, motivate each other etc etc. :)

I'll have to change up the cardio for sure. My knees only bug me when the weather changes so always a good time to change it up. I used to row all the time.

My diet is the goal for the week. It's been off this week for sure. It's the missing piece to the puzzle currently. It wasn't bad the first two weeks but I just need that plan in writing, rather then winging it because then when the unexpected hits, I'm improvising with chocolate. lol I will usually write it out and then cook up most of the week's meals over the weekend so I'm set. I have a date with the Foreman Grill this weekend.

Supplements...always a good reminder. I am taking most of those. I think the only thing I don't take is glutamine. I tend to be a minimalist when it comes to supps and glutamine is one I never really felt much difference with. Some of it is strictly budgeting issues and some of it is a healthy dose of "didn't do much for me". If money wasn't a factor, I'd probably use a lot more of them though. Just because. lol I swear by the fish oil though. I will notice a change within 4-5 days of not taking it.

I could probably increase the vitamin C dose though...any recommendations on daily amount??
 
Glad to hear your sister is OK.

I know all about injuries and how frustrating they can be just take it slow and listen to your body and you'll get that strength back up! I agree 100% with CB nutrition and the bicycle has done wonders for my knees!

Keep it up there's no place left to go but up! ;)

Thanks Johnny. I'll have to give the bike or the elliptical a shot. I usually stay away from them but a change would be good, especially when things are aching.

One of the biggest changes I've made getting back into it, is doing exactly what you said and really trying to listen to my body. It's one of the reasons I didn't think jumping right into prep was wise because you really have to push through all the challenges. I've been taking the rest days when I feel it, adjusting as I need to and it's great to have that flexibility (and give myself permission to do it). It really is a humbling experience isn't it? Makes you realize you're not an invincible superhero! :)
 
My diet is the goal for the week. It's been off this week for sure. It's the missing piece to the puzzle currently. It wasn't bad the first two weeks but I just need that plan in writing, rather then winging it because then when the unexpected hits, I'm improvising with chocolate. lol I will usually write it out and then cook up most of the week's meals over the weekend so I'm set. I have a date with the Foreman Grill this weekend.

Supplements...always a good reminder. I am taking most of those. I think the only thing I don't take is glutamine. I tend to be a minimalist when it comes to supps and glutamine is one I never really felt much difference with. Some of it is strictly budgeting issues and some of it is a healthy dose of "didn't do much for me". If money wasn't a factor, I'd probably use a lot more of them though. Just because. lol I swear by the fish oil though. I will notice a change within 4-5 days of not taking it.

I could probably increase the vitamin C dose though...any recommendations on daily amount??

re diet: let me know how I can best support you. Sometimes it helps just to commit it to someone/anyone. This is also the hardest thing to do if you've been "winging it". Happy to just listen if you wanna vent about it.

Supps: most people who don't notice a difference with Glutamine (in my experience) aren't taking enough. The literature says up to 20000 mg (20 g) daily... Most people don't take 1/4 of that. I take 15 g and definitely notice a difference in muscle soreness without it. I'd say experiment with gradually increasing the dose (just make sure to drink plenty of water!) and see if it helps.

Vitamin C when healing from injury I'd rec 1 g daily. I would take it in the morning with food and again make sure to get plenty of H2O.

If you're taking Fish Oil (which is great) I would probably also add a vitamin D supp at the same time. There is no way you're getting enough sun up there! ;)

xo

PS I kick the chocolate cravings with a small spoonful of straight cacao (unsweetened) or cocoa powder (also unsweetened). It gives you a little buzz (from the theobromine, which is a caffeine analog) and knocks the taste craving thing out of me. If you crave nuts a lot I would stay away from the solid stuff because of it's high fat content, but try choking down even a teaspoon of straight cocoa powder. Lol
 
re diet: let me know how I can best support you. Sometimes it helps just to commit it to someone/anyone. This is also the hardest thing to do if you've been "winging it". Happy to just listen if you wanna vent about it.

Supps: most people who don't notice a difference with Glutamine (in my experience) aren't taking enough. The literature says up to 20000 mg (20 g) daily... Most people don't take 1/4 of that. I take 15 g and definitely notice a difference in muscle soreness without it. I'd say experiment with gradually increasing the dose (just make sure to drink plenty of water!) and see if it helps.

Vitamin C when healing from injury I'd rec 1 g daily. I would take it in the morning with food and again make sure to get plenty of H2O.

If you're taking Fish Oil (which is great) I would probably also add a vitamin D supp at the same time. There is no way you're getting enough sun up there! ;)

xo

PS I kick the chocolate cravings with a small spoonful of straight cacao (unsweetened) or cocoa powder (also unsweetened). It gives you a little buzz (from the theobromine, which is a caffeine analog) and knocks the taste craving thing out of me. If you crave nuts a lot I would stay away from the solid stuff because of it's high fat content, but try choking down even a teaspoon of straight cocoa powder. Lol

Thanks for the input. I'll definitely increase the vitamin c. I know I'm not taking anywhere near that much. I already mega dose the D so no worries there! :) I'll consider giving the glutamine another shot. I was probably low dosing for sure.

Diet is really just a matter of sitting down and doing it. I haven't made it a priority this week but my informal diet clean up only lasts about 2 weeks and then the results stall out. So..I will get a plan down on paper this weekend and get it posted up.

Thanks for all the support! :)
 
re diet: let me know how I can best support you. Sometimes it helps just to commit it to someone/anyone. This is also the hardest thing to do if you've been "winging it". Happy to just listen if you wanna vent about it.

Supps: most people who don't notice a difference with Glutamine (in my experience) aren't taking enough. The literature says up to 20000 mg (20 g) daily... Most people don't take 1/4 of that. I take 15 g and definitely notice a difference in muscle soreness without it. I'd say experiment with gradually increasing the dose (just make sure to drink plenty of water!) and see if it helps.

Vitamin C when healing from injury I'd rec 1 g daily. I would take it in the morning with food and again make sure to get plenty of H2O.

If you're taking Fish Oil (which is great) I would probably also add a vitamin D supp at the same time. There is no way you're getting enough sun up there! ;)

xo

PS I kick the chocolate cravings with a small spoonful of straight cacao (unsweetened) or cocoa powder (also unsweetened). It gives you a little buzz (from the theobromine, which is a caffeine analog) and knocks the taste craving thing out of me. If you crave nuts a lot I would stay away from the solid stuff because of it's high fat content, but try choking down even a teaspoon of straight cocoa powder. Lol

Great post Miss Cutey .. I buy 85% cocoa chocolate and have 1 square I find that works too. I will try your solution.
 
Just a quick note..I've been out running all my errands and doing mass grocery shopping so far today. When they tell us that the cold and snow are coming and -30 is happening tomorrow, I go into hibernation mode! You'd think I was shopping for the end of the world! LOL But...the less I have to go out next week, the better.

Diet is half done and will get the rest done and posted.

Have a great day! :)
 
Just a quick note..I've been out running all my errands and doing mass grocery shopping so far today. When they tell us that the cold and snow are coming and -30 is happening tomorrow, I go into hibernation mode! You'd think I was shopping for the end of the world! LOL But...the less I have to go out next week, the better.

Diet is half done and will get the rest done and posted.

Have a great day! :)

Nice, girl!

xo
 
Wow last year in November it started to snow heavy here and it just didn't stop until mid jan I wish I had thought ahead like you as it was like a military operation to get to the shops lol ,
 
re diet: let me know how I can best support you. Sometimes it helps just to commit it to someone/anyone. This is also the hardest thing to do if you've been "winging it". Happy to just listen if you wanna vent about it.

Supps: most people who don't notice a difference with Glutamine (in my experience) aren't taking enough. The literature says up to 20000 mg (20 g) daily... Most people don't take 1/4 of that. I take 15 g and definitely notice a difference in muscle soreness without it. I'd say experiment with gradually increasing the dose (just make sure to drink plenty of water!) and see if it helps.

Vitamin C when healing from injury I'd rec 1 g daily. I would take it in the morning with food and again make sure to get plenty of H2O.

If you're taking Fish Oil (which is great) I would probably also add a vitamin D supp at the same time. There is no way you're getting enough sun up there! ;)

xo

PS I kick the chocolate cravings with a small spoonful of straight cacao (unsweetened) or cocoa powder (also unsweetened). It gives you a little buzz (from the theobromine, which is a caffeine analog) and knocks the taste craving thing out of me. If you crave nuts a lot I would stay away from the solid stuff because of it's high fat content, but try choking down even a teaspoon of straight cocoa powder. Lol


Cali I sincerely hope your sister will be OK!
CB is right about the Glutamine ,the gut is the biggest hoarder of glutamine after you have filled that up ,then you will have enough to do the job you want!
 
LOL...so cool!! I played all the way through the college days and I remember when I stopped being part of a team, I really felt like I'd lost a part of my identity. It was a weird time having to learn how to re-define myself. But somedays, now....even walking up and down stairs is a killer. :)

Part of my burning desire to win at any cost comes from those basketball days. My team rarely lost. We were nationally ranked by the USA today even at one point. If we lost, coach would make us pay for it in the next brutal practice session.

But I get it now. Coach was teaching us a very valuable lesson in not giving up and sacrifice. His lessons are well understood. And much appreciated.
 
Evening everyone!

First...figurechamp...amazing avi! You look great and you should definitely compete!

I just want you all to know that I am usually a very happy, carefree person and my log has been overcome with all of my trials and challenges of the last months. Unfortunately, they are continuing and this weekend has been a rough one. I will spare you all the gory details but wanted you to know that I haven't given up on my goals and fitness. I usually have great follow through but cleaning up some messes in my life is proving to be far more difficult then I had imagined and it's getting in the way right now.

I will be back with a vengeance soon enough but need a few days yet. Don't give up on me!

Thanks for all the support too. I truly and sincerely appreciate each and every one of you. :)
 
Evening everyone!

First...figurechamp...amazing avi! You look great and you should definitely compete!

I just want you all to know that I am usually a very happy, carefree person and my log has been overcome with all of my trials and challenges of the last months. Unfortunately, they are continuing and this weekend has been a rough one. I will spare you all the gory details but wanted you to know that I haven't given up on my goals and fitness. I usually have great follow through but cleaning up some messes in my life is proving to be far more difficult then I had imagined and it's getting in the way right now.

I will be back with a vengeance soon enough but need a few days yet. Don't give up on me!

Thanks for all the support too. I truly and sincerely appreciate each and every one of you. :)

Awww thanks Cali!

Ur post reminds me of a quote from Henry Rollins that I would totally butcher if I tried to write it here, but it begins something like "the iron never lies to you" and he goes on to express that in spite of life's trials and tribulations, the gym is always there. It's a constant. And keeps us grounded. :)

Keep on pushin those doors. Eventually one's gonna open in your favor! :)
 
Awww thanks Cali!

Ur post reminds me of a quote from Henry Rollins that I would totally butcher if I tried to write it here, but it begins something like "the iron never lies to you" and he goes on to express that in spite of life's trials and tribulations, the gym is always there. It's a constant. And keeps us grounded. :)

Keep on pushin those doors. Eventually one's gonna open in your favor! :)



I think it goes like this

you may Think everyone has their opinion but! The Iron will not lie to you, 20p0 lbs will always be 200 lbs.
something like that , it's early and hard to think until i get fully awake

But yeah keep pushimg those doors ,eventually you will open one of them.
 
Yeah Cali Girl.. great advise from everyone here!!
Keep focused on the positive and don't let people bring you down, and if you really can't avoid it, use the bad energy for motivation to something positve!!
You were always there for me.. so feel free to PM if you want to vent.. or need a chat...
My thoughts go out!
 
Thanks everyone for all the words of support and the great quotes. :)

I have not been in the gym all week. It's a combination of extreme cold and extreme stress but mainly the stress. Although, with windchill we're hitting the -45 cel at night here. It's been -28 during the day, which is just insanity. No excuses though, it's just been stress.

I think I've encountered my first personal experience with a true sociopath (even after lots of time working in psychiatry) and I am, what the police tell me, a victim of criminal harassment. The stress of dealing with someone coming after your home, your job and your family is very hard to imagine. Especially when it's someone you thought you cared about. I am a pretty damn strong woman but this experience has taken me to the edge and been very taxing. Nothing some time and good therapy won't fix but it's not quite over yet and hopefully, by Saturday, things will be 100% set. I hit my limit this week and came out on the attack and it's almost game over. I will NOT let someone do this to me! F$$%$K that!

The good news is I weighed in this morning at 168 lbs which means 11 lbs in almost 4 weeks. My 4 weeks is up Saturday. My appetite has been off though so I anticipate once things stabilize, to go up a bit and then continue dropping.

Anyway....just so everyone knows where I've been! Onwards and upwards! :)
 
Yeah Cali Girl.. great advise from everyone here!!
Keep focused on the positive and don't let people bring you down, and if you really can't avoid it, use the bad energy for motivation to something positve!!
You were always there for me.. so feel free to PM if you want to vent.. or need a chat...
My thoughts go out!

Rachel...so great to see you. Thank you! I really appreciate it. I have turned a corner this week and despite everything feel very empowered and stronger. There are moments of exhaustion but I will come out the other end a better person. The anger will motivate my workouts, definitely! Thanks again girl! :)
 
Rachel...so great to see you. Thank you! I really appreciate it. I have turned a corner this week and despite everything feel very empowered and stronger. There are moments of exhaustion but I will come out the other end a better person. The anger will motivate my workouts, definitely! Thanks again girl! :)

This is great to hear! which reminds me did you get my message???
 
Hey Chic, sorry to hear your under the weather , sending you a speedy recover get plenty chicken soup lol,
And I hope you get you pest problem sorted out soon I can't imaging what your going through if you get stuck you could always call in the guys Of EF to exterminate lol ,no the police will help ,
I'm so happy your doing so well even with all this going on your goals are getting nearer keep up the hard work huni


Donna

Donna
 
Well everyone....time for my 4 week summary!

My goals were:

-decision on competition
-10 lbs down
-training on track/ finish rehabing the injuries

Yesterday was my 4 week mark and....drum roll please.....here are the results!

- I've decided not to compete in June but aim for October. That will give me a few more months to get back in routine and get my simple, drama free life back. I'm thinking about starting back into muay thai. I used to do that 3 times a week for an hour each time. Basically paid a guy to teach me to fight and spar with me. I've been craving that type of physical release...nothing like punching something repeatedly and getting a great workout in the mean time! I know..I'm demented.

- My training for 2 of the 4 weeks was great. The last week it's been non existent but I've made some progress in terms of deciding to run the maxot program and my shoulder/ arm are basically back to normal. I'm down to once every 3 week rehab appts, although I haven't fully put it to the test yet with regular training (for more then 2 weeks) LOL

-My 4 week weigh in was at 167.2 for a total loss of 12 lbs. Yes...it's been on the douche bag diet (I really think I should coin that phrase) but...I'm thrilled with it. This is about where I got to, weight wise, last year in my prep before I stopped so it's a bit of a road mark for me.

I will post up tomorrow with a new set of goals and my new direction. I think they will be short term, one week goals for the next week, just to get back on track!
 
I also wanted to add that I am very grateful for all of you who read my log and post comments and support. It has made a difference for me in my real life and I consider all of you friends.

You all know I've been to hell and back and this last week was by far, the most challenging I've ever faced and for the first time, in a long time, I feel strong again. I kicked some ass, stood up for myself, and really feel that "take no prisoners" attitude. I'm perhaps a bit overboard currently because I have a bit of an edge and that "f*&k you" attitude but it feels so good, compared to the feeling of being a victim.

I don't mean this in anything but a humble way but I feel proud of myself and I am excited to get back into my life, get back into a routine and get really focused on my goals. I am one of those people who is usually nothing but hard on myself and my own worst critic and today, I took time to reflect on where I've been recently and how I've managed to survive and come out the other side standing tall.

Don't ever forget who you are and always stay true to yourself. As people dedicated to fitness, we share a common characteristic and that is that we don't give up. We stay the course and we continue on in our goals, even when it's tough. The qualities that get us in the gym time and time again, are the same qualities that can get us through our challenges in life. Determination, perseverance, commitment.

So, kick some ass this week my EF friends. We are a strong group and we will all get where we need to be this year! I have faith in all of us, including faith in myself.

Night!! :)
 
Morning Cg, that's a great post chic, I understand what your saying bout EF been a great support not just in fitness but also everyday life,
I think it's great that you stood up for yourself and took no shit, also I know you said you adopted this attitude that's a good thing you ever heArd the term fight or flight ? In my job were tested during confrontation on our fight or flight reaction. That Is an automatic reaction to do one or the other during stress , confrontation etc so don't feel so bad that you took on this attitude as for many of us this is a natural reaction and too a ver important one!!
So happy for you with your goals in sight I'm too back to working out today, if missed you lot as I've not been posting much on my week off.
So let's start this wk as we mean to go on KILL that shit!!

Donna x
 
I also wanted to add that I am very grateful for all of you who read my log and post comments and support. It has made a difference for me in my real life and I consider all of you friends.

You all know I've been to hell and back and this last week was by far, the most challenging I've ever faced and for the first time, in a long time, I feel strong again. I kicked some ass, stood up for myself, and really feel that "take no prisoners" attitude. I'm perhaps a bit overboard currently because I have a bit of an edge and that "f*&k you" attitude but it feels so good, compared to the feeling of being a victim.

I don't mean this in anything but a humble way but I feel proud of myself and I am excited to get back into my life, get back into a routine and get really focused on my goals. I am one of those people who is usually nothing but hard on myself and my own worst critic and today, I took time to reflect on where I've been recently and how I've managed to survive and come out the other side standing tall.

Don't ever forget who you are and always stay true to yourself. As people dedicated to fitness, we share a common characteristic and that is that we don't give up. We stay the course and we continue on in our goals, even when it's tough. The qualities that get us in the gym time and time again, are the same qualities that can get us through our challenges in life. Determination, perseverance, commitment.

So, kick some ass this week my EF friends. We are a strong group and we will all get where we need to be this year! I have faith in all of us, including faith in myself.

Night!! :)



Cali why wait until october grasp that trophy now, I would be more than happy to help

you rock gal!
 
I also wanted to add that I am very grateful for all of you who read my log and post comments and support. It has made a difference for me in my real life and I consider all of you friends.

You all know I've been to hell and back and this last week was by far, the most challenging I've ever faced and for the first time, in a long time, I feel strong again. I kicked some ass, stood up for myself, and really feel that "take no prisoners" attitude. I'm perhaps a bit overboard currently because I have a bit of an edge and that "f*&k you" attitude but it feels so good, compared to the feeling of being a victim.

I don't mean this in anything but a humble way but I feel proud of myself and I am excited to get back into my life, get back into a routine and get really focused on my goals. I am one of those people who is usually nothing but hard on myself and my own worst critic and today, I took time to reflect on where I've been recently and how I've managed to survive and come out the other side standing tall.

Don't ever forget who you are and always stay true to yourself. As people dedicated to fitness, we share a common characteristic and that is that we don't give up. We stay the course and we continue on in our goals, even when it's tough. The qualities that get us in the gym time and time again, are the same qualities that can get us through our challenges in life. Determination, perseverance, commitment.

So, kick some ass this week my EF friends. We are a strong group and we will all get where we need to be this year! I have faith in all of us, including faith in myself.

Night!! :)

Love this!!!! And in the nicest way possible, well that just wouldn't be me, so here it goes. ABOUT DAMN TIME!!!!!!!!! LOL
 
So happy to see ya back at it Cali! Its great to hear how positive you are after all you have been through the past few weeks, very inspiring.

Now get in that gym and tear shit up! :) Myself and everyone here will be here supporting you all the way to the top of the podium!
 
You guys rock!! Thank you!

OWL...Love the bluntness!! I know it's long overdue.

I feel great today! :)
 
Cali do you need help with making someone disappear lol? Just sayin' a lot of people go missing here without ever being found. I'm here for you if you ever need help with anything
 
Cali do you need help with making someone disappear lol? Just sayin' a lot of people go missing here without ever being found. I'm here for you if you ever need help with anything


LOL...ya I guess we are the murder capital of Canada aren't we??

How're ya feeling Stero??
 
Cali do you need help with making someone disappear lol? Just sayin' a lot of people go missing here without ever being found. I'm here for you if you ever need help with anything

Lmao I love this post. "there you go Cg it's all sorted " that'll teach them for messing with one EFs best ladies!!
 
LOL...ya I guess we are the murder capital of Canada aren't we??

How're ya feeling Stero??

Hope things are going better with you now Cali, hopefully you've been getting things in order! I'm feeling better than ever to tell you the truth. Ive had over two weeks rest now and Today is going to be my first day back to the gym since the pneumonia. I'll be sure to let you know how it goes!
 
I also wanted to add that I am very grateful for all of you who read my log and post comments and support. It has made a difference for me in my real life and I consider all of you friends.

You all know I've been to hell and back and this last week was by far, the most challenging I've ever faced and for the first time, in a long time, I feel strong again. I kicked some ass, stood up for myself, and really feel that "take no prisoners" attitude. I'm perhaps a bit overboard currently because I have a bit of an edge and that "f*&k you" attitude but it feels so good, compared to the feeling of being a victim.

I don't mean this in anything but a humble way but I feel proud of myself and I am excited to get back into my life, get back into a routine and get really focused on my goals. I am one of those people who is usually nothing but hard on myself and my own worst critic and today, I took time to reflect on where I've been recently and how I've managed to survive and come out the other side standing tall.

Don't ever forget who you are and always stay true to yourself. As people dedicated to fitness, we share a common characteristic and that is that we don't give up. We stay the course and we continue on in our goals, even when it's tough. The qualities that get us in the gym time and time again, are the same qualities that can get us through our challenges in life. Determination, perseverance, commitment.

So, kick some ass this week my EF friends. We are a strong group and we will all get where we need to be this year! I have faith in all of us, including faith in myself.

Night!! :)
What a great post Cali, I have read it a few times and get goosepimply.. I'm so happy you've managed to face your demons and overcome them..

This is so inspirational... 2012 is going to be a great year!!
 
Hey Cg...Just checking in on ya hope all is well chic.....
 
Hey guys...thanks for all the comments!

I'm doing pretty well. I was in the gym Mon/ Tues and trained back and then chest. Cardio both days as well.

I do notice a difference in strength in my left arm as I've started increasing the weight so I'm still sort of playing around with my numbers and seeing where I need to be starting weight wise.

Yesterday was a bit of a down day so I did my exercise in a pub last night but my appetite is returning so my days on the douche bag diet are numbered.

All and all...it's been a good week! Things are continually improving and moving in the right direction! :)
 
What a great post Cali, I have read it a few times and get goosepimply.. I'm so happy you've managed to face your demons and overcome them..

This is so inspirational... 2012 is going to be a great year!!

Thanks Rachel. Means a lot to me. :)
 
Caligirl keep your chin up and get down to you business already. You are a competitive athlete. Get it done! That is all. ;)

Sent from my DROIDX using EliteFitness
 
Hey everyone...a quick update.

I was back in the gym last night, finally. Slowly getting things back to "normal".

I trained shoulders last night and don't have my log with me but did a maxot shoulder workout. I really pushed it because I needed to burn off some frustration and my shoulders are sore today!! Feels good.

I hit up 30 mins post workout cardio too.

I've stopped the GH. My ex was buying it for me but I had to give my kits back....jerk!! lol So...it's not something I can put in the budget to continue at this moment. I don't think I was on it long enough to really see any earth shattering results and I have been less than consistant, as well, so ...probably good I wasn't paying for it. :)

Still working on the goals.....
 
Have u started writing up the script for the book, "the douchebag diet?" coz ur gonna wanna make sure u include a chapter "when douchers confiscate your shit: how to cope". :) maybe u should hire a hit man and put the doucher out of your misery. Lol ;)
 
Have u started writing up the script for the book, "the douchebag diet?" coz ur gonna wanna make sure u include a chapter "when douchers confiscate your shit: how to cope". :) maybe u should hire a hit man and put the doucher out of your misery. Lol ;)

LOL...the douchebag diet is still treating me well!! I was talking to one of the doctors at work today about GH. He said there's been studies out of Europe (he's from Russia) showing GH use increases risk of cancer. I asked him for some references etc but no such luck at the moment. I'd like to see them though.

Time for me to start learning about peptides. I think they would be more in the budget!

P.S. Actually I haven't weighed myself lately. My appetite is coming back so must mean I'm moving on to phase 2 which would be the "getting over said douche bag" diet! LOL
 
Have u started writing up the script for the book, "the douchebag diet?" coz ur gonna wanna make sure u include a chapter "when douchers confiscate your shit: how to cope". :) maybe u should hire a hit man and put the doucher out of your misery. Lol ;)

^^^^^^^^^^^^^totally agree! :strider36^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
 
LOL...the douchebag diet is still treating me well!! I was talking to one of the doctors at work today about GH. He said there's been studies out of Europe (he's from Russia) showing GH use increases risk of cancer. I asked him for some references etc but no such luck at the moment. I'd like to see them though.

Time for me to start learning about peptides. I think they would be more in the budget!

P.S. Actually I haven't weighed myself lately. My appetite is coming back so must mean I'm moving on to phase 2 which would be the "getting over said douche bag" diet! LOL


Hi Cali, heres my take on hgh long term Use will activate any dormant pre cancerous cells, alot of factors include cancer history in your family, and the length and dosage taken.
asfar as peptides ,be careful ,mussing tith your insulin spikees if you're not careful can make you type 2 diabetic.

I prefer Sarms over anything as you will get more noticable results with out any problems.
 
^^^^^ Agreed. Radar put me on the sarms s-4 and other than vision sides by the 5th day no other problems. With all the test and eq I am running it seems to be helping with bloat along with liquidex. Well Radar is just the man. That is all. Lol
 
Thanks guys. I am going to have to look into sarms more. I know QT has run it before and liked it. OWL...what do you mean about vision side effects on the 5th day??

Radar, I was thinking about the gh and cancer cells and wondered if that would be more it vs just the simple statement of gh causes cancer. More that it would develop what was already there. Thanks for the input. I love to learn about this type of thing.
 
I did get in the gym yesterday and just did 30 mins of cardio.

I weighed in this morning and am still at 167.2.

Today is the first Saturday in a long time that I woke up and didn't feel like I had the weight of the world on me. I am almost there you guys! Man it's a process getting over things!

I have two goals for the weekend.

- get the diet finished and food prepared for the work week.
- get my training program laid out. Meaning...print off the maxot sheets and have a schedule.

So..pretty much the same goals for the last 5 weeks!! LOL

It's all good....I got this now! :)
 
Thanks guys. I am going to have to look into sarms more. I know QT has run it before and liked it. OWL...what do you mean about vision side effects on the 5th day??

Radar, I was thinking about the gh and cancer cells and wondered if that would be more it vs just the simple statement of gh causes cancer. More that it would develop what was already there. Thanks for the input. I love to learn about this type of thing.

I run mine 5 days on and 2 off so mon-fri. In my experience by the 5th day when it has built up in my system I start seeing a little yellow tint to things and my eyes don't adjust quite right when coming inside after being in sunlight. It is definitely not something that is unmanageable by any means. However they don't normally start until day 5 if that makes sense?
 
All looking good chic!! You mean business when you have it all laid out in front of ya lol there's no getting away from a schedule .. I have to use that way or it's too easy to skip routine...
How long now chic ?
 
I did get in the gym yesterday and just did 30 mins of cardio.

I weighed in this morning and am still at 167.2.

Today is the first Saturday in a long time that I woke up and didn't feel like I had the weight of the world on me. I am almost there you guys! Man it's a process getting over things!

I have two goals for the weekend.

- get the diet finished and food prepared for the work week.
- get my training program laid out. Meaning...print off the maxot sheets and have a schedule.

So..pretty much the same goals for the last 5 weeks!! LOL

It's all good....I got this now! :)

At least your goals are more positive than mine typically are. I usually have one goal, every week: "get through this shit. " :)
 
I run mine 5 days on and 2 off so mon-fri. In my experience by the 5th day when it has built up in my system I start seeing a little yellow tint to things and my eyes don't adjust quite right when coming inside after being in sunlight. It is definitely not something that is unmanageable by any means. However they don't normally start until day 5 if that makes sense?



Yeah! my first Sarms run scared the hell outta me since i have glaucoma, after i adjusted it , it was a piece of cake, so far i've ran 4 cycles of it ,and love it!
 
The eye stuff with the SARMS scares me a little bit...sounds like it's dose related though? and taking the days off too.
 
At least your goals are more positive than mine typically are. I usually have one goal, every week: "get through this shit. " :)

LOL..well I'm trying to be more positive or at least fake it till I make it! :)
 
Hump day update.....there is no humping going on up here! Dammit! LOL

I have been in the gym both Monday and Tuesday. Woo hoo! A whole two day roll so far.

Monday I did legs and cardio.

Tuesday was back and cardio.

I can really notice a difference in strength with being so inconsistant in both diet and training. So...a little note for myself. It takes about 3.5 weeks of poor diet and poor training to really feel it. That's something for me to learn as I've never paid attention before. I know, when I'm moving in the right direction, it takes about 2 weeks for my body to adjust to regular training and proper diet. Always good to learn that type of thing about yourself! :)
 
Hump day update.....there is no humping going on up here! Dammit! LOL

I have been in the gym both Monday and Tuesday. Woo hoo! A whole two day roll so far.

Monday I did legs and cardio.

Tuesday was back and cardio.

I can really notice a difference in strength with being so inconsistant in both diet and training. So...a little note for myself. It takes about 3.5 weeks of poor diet and poor training to really feel it. That's something for me to learn as I've never paid attention before. I know, when I'm moving in the right direction, it takes about 2 weeks for my body to adjust to regular training and proper diet. Always good to learn that type of thing about yourself! :)

This is great to hear cali 2 days in a row is a start!!!:)keep it up my friend!
 
Go Cg!! You can do this chic !!
I'm reading up on the Sarms now sound great so far... Was talking to Pzizzle bout her experiences to that's sometimes the best judgement is other ladies experiences ... Best of luck to you huni.
 
Morning everyone! I had a long day at work yesterday...had a late day ER consult with an attempted hanging so ended up working 12 hours. Today is my son's 16th birthday so I'm not sure I'll be in the gym today either but we will see how things go. He might spend some time with his friends instead. :)
 
Morning everyone! I had a long day at work yesterday...had a late day ER consult with an attempted hanging so ended up working 12 hours. Today is my son's 16th birthday so I'm not sure I'll be in the gym today either but we will see how things go. He might spend some time with his friends instead. :)

Ew, geez... That get your own cortisol pumping?
 
spend time with your son, thats how memories are created, after that you can't get them back!
 
Pretty sad when you gotta scroll down to the bottom of the page to find your log!! ;)

Mine has decidedly been lagging lately. I'll spare you all the excuses....my head just hasn't been in it. I didn't care, I didn't want to work out, drinking too much, days of not eating, days of eating crap....just not in the headspace AT ALL!!

The beauty about being on the bottom is that there is always room to improve and this is my week of starting over....AGAIN! :)

Saturday is 15 weeks to my 40th. I have plenty of time to get myself in great shape for then if I get back on track and refocused, which I'm happy to say is starting to happen. The days of the douche bag diet are done!!

Monday was a holiday here and I spent an hour outside, down in the river valley, hiking on the trails. It felt good to be outside and get some cardio in.

Yesterday I hit the gym and trained legs. I went pretty light but had the shaky, jello feeling leaving.

I also found out that Canada is bringing in the physique category this year, which really interests me. So, I may be re-evaluating my goal to compete and the category.
 
Yeah I know like when your friends don't come visit your log? Lol great to see you cali! Nice job on the leg workout. Keep it up!

Sent from my DROIDX using EliteFitness
 
Yeah I know like when your friends don't come visit your log? Lol great to see you cali! Nice job on the leg workout. Keep it up!

Sent from my DROIDX using EliteFitness


lol...point taken! For what it's worth..I read yours ...just haven't commented much lately! I'll be in there writing books before ya know it. ;)
 
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