CALLANETICS CHALLENGE APRIL 2008

[ThyckeCutie]

How long is everyones cardio sessions if they do cardio 3x a week? Some people say I work out too much doing cardio or weights rotating 5x a week AND callanetics 4x a week or more. Is this too much? My body feels so strong and tight inside, like if you feel my thighs are abs you will feel tightness, but the outside looks "fat". Basically people tell me I have more muscle then fat by the way I feel. Like my cousins were feeling my thighs and it was hard compared to theres which were soft. What can I do about this? I thought muscle burns fats. Im confused

[newbody]

Originally Posted by Sandrahanna

With Callantics exercises you lift up from the calves and down from the chest and then it meets in the middle. This means that there are times when you feel that you are getting bigger at the top of legs and midriff.

Don't stress about this - think of it as a good thing, you're sculpting your body after all and it's changing shape. Just keep exercising and it will, sometimes, really quickly, pull in to give you your slimmer all over body shape.

Also, Callan says in her book to throw away the scales - great advise as muscle weighs more than fat so the scale habit can put you off. Keep at it, the results are worth it.

Sandrax

Hi Sandra, I certainly hope you are right! I want my hourglass figure back. It is really hard for me to 'throw away the scales' as I just lost 33 lbs (and then gained 6 back) but I cannot deny the effectiveness of Callanetics. Heck this is the only exercise I keep coming back to. The another one I also like and probably will will is Yoga Booty Ballet. They are fun and have ballet work, but the efficiency of Callanetics is higher then any other ( I also did and mastered p90x which is athlete level!)

However, now I just wnat to have a balance. I am still struggling with my feeding habits as I surely eat when I should not be eating (e.g. boredom), but I am sure Callanetics will do as much as it can. My legs are getting toned up - and it has been only 6 times! I still haven't done today's work and will do so shortly after typing this post. My arms, the top where they meet the body are starting to feel better as well. But overall I feel still all round up and as a 'ping-pong ball'. Hopefully the bloating and waist will go down. I remember last time 20 years ago, tummy was the last thing to go.

Sandra thx for support as I was really wondering. i think I also need a better control of my diet which probably is partially also responsible for the tummy.

Cheers, will keep you posted how I feel after hour 7

Bianca

[glamazon]

Hi everyone-- you have all been so inspiring that I went out and bought the 10 in 10 DVD. Your enthusiasm is infectious and your photos are impressive!

I watched it through last night for the first time and have a question.

I am recovering from terrible plantar fasciitis (tendons separating from bone in the feet.) I am finally at the point where I am not hobbled after long walks. Most of the exercises are perfectly fine, but I am concerned about the "up on the toes" manuevers. I am pretty heavy and it seems a lot of pressure concentrated on the feet in that position. I took some yoga classes a few years back and completely aggravated my condition, and I don't want that to happen again.

So, does anyone have any suggestions how to do those particular exercises without hurting my feet-- or will it not hurt my feet?

Thanks for your time and I'm looking forward to my first hour!

[planetbenjamin]

Originally Posted by glamazon

Hi everyone-- you have all been so inspiring that I went out and bought the 10 in 10 DVD. Your enthusiasm is infectious and your photos are impressive!

I watched it through last night for the first time and have a question.

I am recovering from terrible plantar fasciitis (tendons separating from bone in the feet.) I am finally at the point where I am not hobbled after long walks. Most of the exercises are perfectly fine, but I am concerned about the "up on the toes" manuevers. I am pretty heavy and it seems a lot of pressure concentrated on the feet in that position. I took some yoga classes a few years back and completely aggravated my condition, and I don't want that to happen again.

So, does anyone have any suggestions how to do those particular exercises without hurting my feet-- or will it not hurt my feet?

Thanks for your time and I'm looking forward to my first hour!

In the new DVD CallaneticsEvolution they do those two exercises differently. Instead of going up on your toes you step out into a wide plie. Here's some pictures to show you:

[WATCH-ME-SHRINK]

Originally Posted by ThyckeCutie

How long is everyones cardio sessions if they do cardio 3x a week? Some people say I work out too much doing cardio or weights rotating 5x a week AND callanetics 4x a week or more. Is this too much? My body feels so strong and tight inside, like if you feel my thighs are abs you will feel tightness, but the outside looks "fat". Basically people tell me I have more muscle then fat by the way I feel. Like my cousins were feeling my thighs and it was hard compared to theres which were soft. What can I do about this? I thought muscle burns fats. Im confused

TC, many people, fitness gurus, etc., are of the opinion these days that cardio has been overrated, that is to say, too much can be somewhat of a waste of time.

From my extensive research of this issue in the last few months, it is suggested that we should strive for 30 mins of cardio per session, 3 to 4 times per week. And if you're doing more than that, you're not making a lot of gains in terms of burning body fat. Rather, you should replace anything over and above that with strength training, which will help to build muscle and thus burn more body fat even when not working out. Muscle is what elevates our metabolism.

Callanetics builds muscle, and that is why it can be very effective for fat burning.

However, we also need to work into our fitness programs some cardio. HIIT (high intensity interval training) is far more effective at burning fat than steady-state cardio, but it is very demanding, and you wouldn't want to do this every time, and definitely not every day.

If you google HIIT, you'll find many explanations and theories behind this form of cardio vs. traditional cardio and how it can be very beneficial for burning fat most effectively.

Hope that helps.

[mrs lightyear]

Hi everyone!

I have done 3 hours of callanetics! I was so high last night after completing the hour...like I had just done an hour of cardio! Do you find it's an endorphin releaser too?

[glamazon]

Thank you, Benjamin! That really helps a lot. I think maybe I need to get the Evolution DVD as well! You were very kind to post those pics for me.

I did just complete my first session-- WOW!! The pelvic rotations were a killer for my uncoordinated mashmallow hips. I really enjoyed all the relaxed stretching, and it went by very quickly. This proves to me what TERRIBLE shape I am in! I could only complete about half (maybe less!!) of the more difficult moves.

Ah well, I'm still calling it: ONE HOUR OF 10 IN 10 COMPETED!

[ThyckeCutie]

Originally Posted by WATCH-ME-SHRINK

TC, many people, fitness gurus, etc., are of the opinion these days that cardio has been overrated, that is to say, too much can be somewhat of a waste of time.

From my extensive research of this issue in the last few months, it is suggested that we should strive for 30 mins of cardio per session, 3 to 4 times per week. And if you're doing more than that, you're not making a lot of gains in terms of burning body fat. Rather, you should replace anything over and above that with strength training, which will help to build muscle and thus burn more body fat even when not working out. Muscle is what elevates our metabolism.

Callanetics builds muscle, and that is why it can be very effective for fat burning.

However, we also need to work into our fitness programs some cardio. HIIT (high intensity interval training) is far more effective at burning fat than steady-state cardio, but it is very demanding, and you wouldn't want to do this every time, and definitely not every day.

If you google HIIT, you'll find many explanations and theories behind this form of cardio vs. traditional cardio and how it can be very beneficial for burning fat most effectively.

Hope that helps.

I have heard of HIIT. Isnt Turbo Jam HIIT? I do Turbo Jam 3x a week and Hi def sculpt(weights) 2x a week. Im assuming this is too much. PLUS Callanetics 4x a week? I love Hi def sculpt since its a full sculpting workout and works the arms well. What do you suggest I should cut down? I rarely suffer from soreness the next day but during the week when I work out my body is fatigue so I know I should cut down on something. I also know I have a good amount of muscle. Everyone tells me I feel "diesel" and "hard" but the outside I look fat. Should I up my cardio or focus on Callanetics which would probably sculpt me better. Its working great for my upper body. Thanks Twyla for your help

[WATCH-ME-SHRINK]

Originally Posted by ThyckeCutie

I have heard of HIIT. Isnt Turbo Jam HIIT? I do Turbo Jam 3x a week and Hi def sculpt(weights) 2x a week. Im assuming this is too much. PLUS Callanetics 4x a week? I love Hi def sculpt since its a full sculpting workout and works the arms well. What do you suggest I should cut down? I rarely suffer from soreness the next day but during the week when I work out my body is fatigue so I know I should cut down on something.

TC, do not give up your high def sculpting. That's my opinion, but I'm sticking to it.

The Callan 4 x a week? Great! Keep that.

As for TJ 3 x a week, if that's the only cardio you're getting, I say keep it. Or cut it down to 2 x a week (if you're doing the full 43 mins), and maybe throw in one 20 min HIIT session one other day per week. TJ is VERY demanding, and 3 x a week -- in addition to everything else you're doing -- has got to be taxing on your body.

But there's two more things to consider to maximize your efforts: Fuel and rest. You mentioned fatigue. We all get it, but allowing it to get out of hand and/or become commonplace is counterproductive. Make sure you're getting enough rest. If you can try going to bed 3 nights a week a half hour earlier, see if that helps your fatigue levels.

Secondly, not sure what kind of WOE you're doing, but on your high intensity workout days -- esp TJ and sculpting -- you may want to take in a few extra good carbs (lower fat) right after your workout, within 30 mins, which will be used immediately and efficiently by your muscles to help them recover. RECOVER. That's so essential.

As for the rest of your WOE, it's the combo of a good WOE -- AS WELL AS a comprehensive workout schedule -- that best targets body fat. I believe you when you say you have that muscle, but it may be upstaged by some body fat, and that BF is stealing its glory! Keep that muscle, girl! Just focus on getting more rest and making sure that you're eating right for your particular WOE, and keeping a journal of your daily eats so that you can track what things you may be doing wrong.

[Marisha]

I have done my 5th hour of Callanetics
I love it! It is a magic!

[scrappychik]

I just finished my 8th hour of 10/10

[ThyckeCutie]

Originally Posted by WATCH-ME-SHRINK

TC, do not give up your high def sculpting. That's my opinion, but I'm sticking to it.

The Callan 4 x a week? Great! Keep that.

As for TJ 3 x a week, if that's the only cardio you're getting, I say keep it. Or cut it down to 2 x a week (if you're doing the full 43 mins), and maybe throw in one 20 min HIIT session one other day per week. TJ is VERY demanding, and 3 x a week -- in addition to everything else you're doing -- has got to be taxing on your body.

But there's two more things to consider to maximize your efforts: Fuel and rest. You mentioned fatigue. We all get it, but allowing it to get out of hand and/or become commonplace is counterproductive. Make sure you're getting enough rest. If you can try going to bed 3 nights a week a half hour earlier, see if that helps your fatigue levels.

Secondly, not sure what kind of WOE you're doing, but on your high intensity workout days -- esp TJ and sculpting -- you may want to take in a few extra good carbs (lower fat) right after your workout, within 30 mins, which will be used immediately and efficiently by your muscles to help them recover. RECOVER. That's so essential.

As for the rest of your WOE, it's the combo of a good WOE -- AS WELL AS a comprehensive workout schedule -- that best targets body fat. I believe you when you say you have that muscle, but it may be upstaged by some body fat, and that BF is stealing its glory! Keep that muscle, girl! Just focus on getting more rest and making sure that you're eating right for your particular WOE, and keeping a journal of your daily eats so that you can track what things you may be doing wrong.

Thanks so much for the great tips Twyla!! I will try to get more rest and do some good carabs after work outs. I will also listen to my body and not over work it. I just took thursday and Friday off becaus of this. Now Im going to start again today and just listen to my body.

[cocosmama]

5 hours of 10 in 10 completed!!!!!

[slendercate]

Hi, I love Callenetics, so glad to have found this challenge.
Do you have room for one more?

I usually do either quick callenetics tapes, or the orginal callenetics tapes.

I probably need to pick up her newer ones.

I incorporate cardio in the form of walking or jumping on the mini-tramp also.

This week: 3 hours of callenetics.

Magic you can see.


Slendercate

[planetbenjamin]

Just completed another hour of CallaneticsEvolution. It really feels like it works my upper back. I find myself standing much taller after each session.

[lisabinil]

19th hour of 10 in 10 completed. I did as Callaneticsteacher recommended and did the pelvic exercises in the recliner. I was finally able to do them without the horrible knee pain. Thanks for this tip!

[FitNFree40]

Originally Posted by slendercate

Hi, I love Callenetics, so glad to have found this challenge.
Do you have room for one more?

I usually do either quick callenetics tapes, or the orginal callenetics tapes.

I probably need to pick up her newer ones.

I incorporate cardio in the form of walking or jumping on the mini-tramp also.

This week: 3 hours of callenetics.

Magic you can see.


Slendercate

There's always room for one more!! "Magic you can see." I love that!!

[Sandrahanna]

Originally Posted by glamazon

Hi everyone-- you have all been so inspiring that I went out and bought the 10 in 10 DVD. Your enthusiasm is infectious and your photos are impressive!

I watched it through last night for the first time and have a question.

I am recovering from terrible plantar fasciitis (tendons separating from bone in the feet.) I am finally at the point where I am not hobbled after long walks. Most of the exercises are perfectly fine, but I am concerned about the "up on the toes" manuevers. I am pretty heavy and it seems a lot of pressure concentrated on the feet in that position. I took some yoga classes a few years back and completely aggravated my condition, and I don't want that to happen again.

So, does anyone have any suggestions how to do those particular exercises without hurting my feet-- or will it not hurt my feet?

Thanks for your time and I'm looking forward to my first hour!

Hi, Keep your heels low - get in to position for the exercise then lower then lower your heels a little - still pain? Lower a little more until it feels comfortable.

You can also do these exercises with our feet hip width apart, knees bent over middle toes. Keep you PF activated and stay stretched up to keep weight off.

Let me know how you go.
Sandrax

[buckeyechic]

3rd hour completed tonight. I'm doing them 3x per week right now, and may switch to 5x per week here shortly. I did "cheat" a little tonight and skipped the pelvic exercises. Does anyone know what these exercises do for you? I see the benefits from the leg exercises, but not pelvic. Maybe for the butt??

Anyway, thanks Benjamin for posting some shots from Evolutions! I'm going to purchase that tonight and begin incorporating it.

[VGrace]

Wow there is so many of us now! I love it! I haven't been able to do any callan in a few days due to my work schedule,but I am going to catch up soon!

I really need to buy Evolution soon!

[jeepifer]

Hi, new here (thanks, hellsbelles) and I have a few questions for you.

First, what DVD do I get? Can I rent from library or Blockbuster, or buy off amazon?

Second, I am just at the beginning of my weightloss journey and you all seem so much more fit/further along. Am I just going to be disappointed since I am literally a big marshmallow?

Third, do I need anything special for this? I've seen mention of a barre? I just have a living room and a chair.

Thanks for humoring the newbie.

-- Jenn

[WATCH-ME-SHRINK]

Originally Posted by jeepifer

Hi, new here (thanks, hellsbelles) and I have a few questions for you.

First, what DVD do I get? Can I rent from library or Blockbuster, or buy off amazon?

Second, I am just at the beginning of my weightloss journey and you all seem so much more fit/further along. Am I just going to be disappointed since I am literally a big marshmallow?

Third, do I need anything special for this? I've seen mention of a barre? I just have a living room and a chair.

Thanks for humoring the newbie.

-- Jenn

Jenn,

Don't fret. You will be competing hours with the best of us in NO TIME.

If you want to buy only one DVD for now, buy 10 Years Younger in 10 Hours. It seems to be the favorite of everyone here, definitely the most comprehensive, and you will see results very fast.

If it's too much for you at first, do what reps you can do without pushing yourself too hard, but THE FOCUS SHOULD BE ON FORM.

I encourage you to take the time to read throughout this power-packed thread for LOTS OF TIPS on form, if you have questions on any particular segment. Trust me, the answers have all been asked and covered in this thread. Or at least most.

Get it ordered right away. Don't waste another minute. And let us share in your transformation and excitment the minute you begin.

[planetbenjamin]

Originally Posted by jeepifer

Hi, new here (thanks, hellsbelles) and I have a few questions for you.

First, what DVD do I get? Can I rent from library or Blockbuster, or buy off amazon?

Second, I am just at the beginning of my weightloss journey and you all seem so much more fit/further along. Am I just going to be disappointed since I am literally a big marshmallow?

Third, do I need anything special for this? I've seen mention of a barre? I just have a living room and a chair.

Thanks for humoring the newbie.

-- Jenn

With Callanetics it doesn't matter if you're not fit yet. You just work at your own pace and that's what makes it so effective. You don't need any special equipment. You can use a chair or something similar (make sure it's quite sturdy) instead of a barre.

When I started out I used "Beginning Callanetics". You can get it from Amazon and it's fantastic. It explains everything you need to know as a beginner. With Callanetics it's quite important that you do the exercises accurately, so the "Beginning Callanetics" DVD is the perfect place to start.

Once you have conquered that one you can go onto "CallaneticsEvolution" or "Callanetics: 10 Years Younger In 10 Hours". Most of us have found it most effective if you do "CallaneticsEvolution" one day and "10 Years Younger" the next day as they seem to work different muscles. It also stops you getting bored.