i never really recapped my experience with jamie eason’s livefit trainer, did i?
(image source: bodybuilding.com)
now is probably a good time to talk about it. or, for you to read about it, i guess. chances are i am hanging at the beach in mexico, loving my rediscovered muscles thanks to the livefit program.
i can honestly say that thanks to this program, i am in the best physical shape of my life. yes, i may look a little leaner and smaller in my post-BFL photos, but i actually feel better, stronger, and happier right now than i did then. and that is saying a lot, because i was on cloud nine after body for life.
i stumbled across jamie eason’s FREE 12 week training program back in august. i finished it on december 31, 2011. you do the math: that’s more than 12 weeks. i know. i took a little longer to complete the program. i got sick. i went on vacation. workouts were missed. but i always refocused and ended up finishing strong. stronger than i expected, actually.
i didn’t follow the nutrition plan, only the workout plan. the nutrition plan is a good one, that’s for sure, but it can be boring if you don’t know how to tweak your options while still adhering to the macros jamie suggests. also, i ate millionaire’s shortbread for breakfast and lunch the day before taking these photos. that wasn’t on the plan…
for the MOST part, i already eat clean, have been for over three years, and i feel confident that the way i eat is good for me. i eat enough to supplement weight training and i don’t a ton of junk. note: i still eat junk.. over the holidays i was a cookie monster and the week leading up to my trip i ate cereal and sweets like it was my job. i know my results would have been better had i been more strict with my nutrition, but i just didn’t have it in me. there, i said it.
if you wanted to dial it in and really get super-cut and lean, then i would recommend following the nutrition plan to a T. it is a good one. but honestly, eating clean 75% of the time was good enough for me. i did mess around with the carb cycling plan a couple times, once in december and once in january. while it was beneficial to fat loss.. it wasn’t beneficial to my mood, so i abandoned it after a week each time. i know i never mentioned that, so in case you were wondering.. yep, i did carb cycling for a week. it was annoying to count carbs. i hated wondering if i had enough carbs left for the day to eat an apple or a piece of bread (or, let’s be honest: a bowl of cereal!) i went back to my regular clean eating habits after one week of carb cycling.
okay, so back to the real thing i want to discuss.. the workouts. the first four weeks (phase 1) consisted of weight training only.. no cardio. this was heavenly for me, because i don’t like cardio one single bit. i focused on lifting weights–medium effort, average number of reps–and build a strong foundation for the phases to come.
the next four weeks, phase two, consisted of weight training at higher weight and lower reps and added in steady-state cardio. this is the phase i got stuck in and had to re-do a few weeks because of other obligations (and my illness) getting in the way of the plan. this is also the phase where i bulked up. i felt like a freaking WHALE. someone (a random reader, i guess, they had never commented before) actually left me a comment saying that i had clearly gained weight and they thought i wasn’t being honest with what i was saying i ate on the blog. as you guys know, i NEVER show everything i eat on the blog, so i replied to the commented explaining that, and also noting that i was in lifting weights and building muscle. even though i knew i wasn’t doing anything wrong, i still was discouraged. and that comment did me no favors. but i pressed on, believing in the program. i knew i was building muscle in this phase and that was the reason for the bulk.. and it would all work itself out in phase 3.. the cutting phase.
and it did. i completed phase 3 in december and leaned out a lot. between the intense circuit training and the multiple sprint sessions, i dropped all of that bulk and was pleasantly surprised with the results. my hard-earned muscles shined through. i was (and am!) 100% sold on the program! i am now telling everyone i know to try it if they want a wonderful workout plan.
how about a couple of lists? this is ONLY about the workouts, since that’s the part i followed.
pros of livefit trainer.
- it’s completely free
- there is a video from jamie at the beginning of each phase that explains what you need to do during that phase and what to expect
- there are videos to show you how to do each move
- there are printable pages that are super convenient
- the workouts are switched up every 2 weeks so you aren’t bored (and you don’t plateau)
cons of livefit trainer.
- a lot of equipment is required, so if you don’t have a gym membership it may be tricky (but it can be done)
- there is a ton of cardio in phases 2 and 3, more than i am used to (yes this is a con for ME)
- some of the workouts took over 90 minutes, which got to be a little ridiculous
as you can see, the cons are not really that bad. i definitely don’t think any of those cons would stop people from doing the trainer.. they can all be worked around. plus, even though i hate cardio, i firmly believe it is the reason my legs lost nearly two inches of circumference.. each.
yeah, that gap? between my thighs? it never used to be there. i guess cardio is good for something.
supplements.
there is a supplementation outline that jamie suggests with livefit. she recommends you use a multivitamin, BCAAs, EFAs, and protein powder. i already used all these supplements, so it was nothing new to me. i did try out the specific brands she suggests and ended up finding my new favorite protein powder!
love this stuff. it’s all natural, has great stats, and is very affordable.
while the supplementation suggestions are great, i don’t think that you have to take all these things to have results. the multivitamin is a non-negotiable for me, but that’s because i have always taken one. but let’s face it: supplements can be very expensive. it’s definitely possible to get everything you need through the food you eat. however, sometimes it can be tricky to get enough protein and healthy fats, so that is why she suggests using protein powder and taking EFA capsules.. but yeah, you could get these through food. the BCAAs (branched chain amino acids) benefit muscle repair and help with soreness. however, i prefer to get my BCAAs in through a powder mixed in water, not in a capsule. i use fitmixer amino, which i buy at costco. i recently found out that it’s a local brand, so that makes me happy. they also don’t use capital letters on their label, so that’s another reason they make me smile.
so those are my thoughts on the supplementation shpill. it can be skipped, but it’s best to just find what works for you.. both financially and physically.
after completing livefit on december 31, i still had 4 weeks between my finish date and my trip to mexico. i wasn’t sure what to do with my workouts, so i just decided to repeat some of the weeks.
for the first two weeks in january, i did weeks 7 and 8 (from phase 2) in order to focus on building more muscle. i actually saw progress during these two short weeks and was able to increase my weights quite a bit. it was a great feeling!
for the final two weeks in january, i did week 10 and week 12. this was when i did a week of carb cycling (while i was doing the week 10 workouts.) during the week 12 workouts, i just focused on eating clean and made sure to get my workouts in even though i was going crazy trying to get everything ready to go out of town. sometimes going out of town requires more work at the office than if i actually stayed home!
anyway, after my four weeks of pulling various workouts from the livefit program, i was ready for mexico.
well, aside from not having a tan.. but hopefully i will come back with one!
moving forward.
now that i am done with livefit, i do want to try something new. i am not quite sure what i will do.. but i know i need to find a program to follow. i am better at sticking with my workouts when i have a plan to follow, that’s why i had great success with body for life and insanity. i like structure and i like crossing things off the workout schedule.
bodybuilding.com has quite a few workout programs on their website, and i am thinking i will just pick a new one every four weeks. i think that one of the biggest reasons i had success was due to the fact that i was constantly changing my workouts. i went from no cardio to steady state cardio to high intensity cardio and back to steady state cardio. i went from lifting moderate weight to lifting heavy weight (low reps) to lifting light weight (high reps.) my body didn’t know what hit it! and it responded properly. we crave variety, not only with our meals, but also with our moves.
keeping it fresh is my only plan moving forward. i will just have to peruse my options before picking a specific workout plan. whatever it is, i am sure you will hear about it!
final thoughts.
i am sure the reason i loved this program so much is that i LOVE to strength train and that is what it focused on. also, the organization and variety made it so easy for me to follow.
i think that the most important thing to remember when following a plan is to FOLLOW THE PLAN. often times, people will take a workout plan and tweak it so much to cater to their own needs, wants, and preferences that it becomes a completely different plan. then they wonder why they didn’t get the results that people who did follow the plan got.
people ask me about body for life all the time. it’s not a hard plan to follow, but it is important to follow the plan. i get emails asking me what they can do to have the results i had.. and i just tell them to follow the program. to a T. don’t tweak it and trust that it will work. i don’t think that it matters WHAT plan you pick. but i do think it matters that you follow it. workout plans that are designed by professionals work for a reason. they have been tried and tested and have proven to work. going in and changing it up is obviously going to change the outcome. sure, your tweaks may prove to still result in a great transformation, but if that doesn’t happen.. don’t get pissed off at the program for not working.
okay, rant over. haha, wow, guess i felt pretty passionate about that one!
i have noticed that a lot of people have hopped on the livefit bandwagon lately and i love seeing that and reading about their journey and progress. it’s inspiring to see so many people become passionate about srtength training! i hope everyone trying out livefit trainer sticks with it. if you slip and fall, don’t give up.. just pick up where you left off and keep going. slow and steady wins the race, right? what matters is that you finish the race. you will be happy you did. i know i am!
xo. janetha g.
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{ 152 comments… read them below or add one }
Damn girl, you look amazing!!
you look awesome girl!!! strong work! i’ve been seeing a few others start out this program recently, and i’m intrigued, especially after reading your review on it. i’m going to go take a look right now! ;)
You look amazing!! I am about to start week four of the live fit trainer all thanks to reading your earlier posts about it. I can already see a difference (I’m also doing clean eating and not the meal plan…) and it is definitely motivating to see your recap. Have a great time in Mexico!!
You look amazing! Strong but very feminine which is a hard balance I think. I really can’t believe someone would comment telling you you’d gained wait – people are crazy!
Yay for a beach vacation so you can show off all your work!
You look phenomenal. I can’t believe anyone had the nerve to question you and make such unfair observations. Clearly, they don’t know you. You flat out rock.
One word – damn!
I’m too tired for more commentary, but you look jacked. And hot. *wolf whistle*
looking great girl!!
Wow, Janetha! You look awesome :D Great results. Have fun in Mexico!
Do you think this program is good for people looking to lose weight/are somewhat out of shape? I want to start a program but I haven’t worked out regularly in months and I need some weight to lose before I can really tone up. If not, do you have any other recommendations?
You look freaking amazing.. You’ve been such an inspiration to me and I can never thank you enough for that. I LOVE the mrm.. just ordered some more today :) and I remember reading that comment about the ass that said something about you lookin heavy.. There’s never been a point where you haven’t looked great! You’re just super rocking now! Hope your having a great time in Mexico!
I just finished the workouts in week 3. Your recap(and, let’s get real, killer photos) have provided me with so much enthusiasm to keep going strong with week 4 and beyond! Hope you’re having a great trip!
Turned on to the max.
You look amazing! It’s really nice to read such a thorough recap of your experience going through LiveFit. Thank you for sharing!
i hope marshall has these pictures posted in his closet, cause damn he’s got a fine wife.
;)
I love the BFL comparison. definitely a new strength. Good review JG
You look amazing! Dang girl!!!
I’m interested in this program… I can’t say that I will start it anytime soon (as I am training for my first triathlon), but maybe in the off-season I will give this a try!
Wow, this was honestly the best review I’ve ever read. I’m really enjoying the livefit workouts but I know I should be doing them more seriously. I’ve been doing most of them from home but I really appreciate that she adapts most of the moves so that you can do them from home. I know I would get better results if I moved my butt to the gym but I’m still such a wuss when it comes to heavy lifting in front of others.
PS- You look smoking hot!!!
Thank you soo much for posting this! I am DYING to do this program. Once my half marathon is over I’m doing it, i’m convinced. I LOVE strength training, so I’m excited!
Great review! Now I want to really check out these programs. I just started studying to become a trainer and I’m completely fascinated by workout programs. The BCCA are really great for lifting. I’m glad she suggests that in her program. I’ve been looking for a good dairy free protein powder lately since I’ve been focusing on my protein sources. After studying nutrition, I completely changed the way I eat and I can tell a HUGE difference in my physique. It’s crazy how the definition is really popping. Thanks for sharing this! Have a great trip!
omg, you look AWESOME. i am so impressed! great job!
i was doing this program when our gym closed right around phase two. i’ve been working out, but now i’m kicking myself for not trying harder to do this program at home. i’ve had some success, but DAMN your arms are incredible. i’ve got to step it up!
thank you for being an inspiration!
um i really want to do this now because of you.
now i really don’t want to have to train for a marathon.
i am jealous of your body!
You look AMAZING!!! So excited to be doing this program!
you look ridiculous! (in a really really good way :))! Wow. Marshall must be liking what he’s seeing ;)!
Have you ever tried barre training? It is by far the most fun and enjoyable workout I’ve ever done and is bomb for elongated and toning up muscles. If you’re interested at all I can recommend some really good DVDs! The gym and I don’t get along.
Which dvd’s do you use? I thought about doing this.
I love the Physique 57 dvds but rarely use them because they’re a little too intense for me (i’m trying to gain weight so the constant movement = calorie burning = no bueno). That being said, the toning benefits of P57 are amazing. I’ve done it so many times and it never gets easier! You can either buy the entire collection or buy the dvds individually. Obviously, I just recommend buying one until you see if you actually like the method — so if you choose to I’d go for the P57 classic 57 minute DVD: http://www.physique57.com/boutique/product/13
Another favorite of mine is Tracy Mallet The Booty Barre:
http://www.amazon.com/Tracey-Mallett-Booty-Barre-Total-Body/dp/B0046BAAUE
the DVD incorporates a little bit of cardio too so it’ll get your heart pumping without the dreadmill (ew).
You can also try out the Core Fusion DVDs which are great, but a little more basic. I never feel like I get as much of a workout with these as I do with P57 and The Booty Barre, but they’re also great for toning!
http://www.amazon.com/Exhale-Core-Fusion-Body-Sculpt/dp/B001AZI236/ref=sr_1_2?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1328307422&sr=1-2
and now.. my FAVORITE! Recently I purchased a 24 week training barre training plan and it’s just intensified my obsession so much more.
http://leahsarago.com/2011/12/new-year-new-you-complete-training-package/
Leah is incredible. Super motivational, super responsive, and her workouts are INCREDIBLE. They’re so diverse and fun. I could literally gush for hours. The program that I purchased uses a lot of video downloads that only come with the package, but I also own all three of her DVDs and they are BY FAR my favorite:
http://leahsaragofitness.com/ballet-body/
Check out the mini clip on the right side for a sneak peak. I would heavily recommend purchasing all three of the DVDs but if you can only choose one, definitely the lower body. It’s ridiculous! (in a good way!)
Oh! and don’t worry – you don’t need a barre for any of these DVDs. Just a sturdy chair :)
Oh great! Thanks for all the info.
Love it! You look amazing!! Even though I only did the upper body workouts of livefit when I was rehabbing my knee, I noticed a huuuuge improvement in the 8 weeks I kept up with it. What I loved most was that it was an even gain of muscle. I realized my previous ‘upper body’ workouts were making me strong in some areas but not all…so my shoulders looked huge yet I wasn’t making gains in my biceps, etc. end run-on sentence. So yes, everyone needs to try it and again, you are one HOT mama!
Great work you look amazing!!!
You always look amazing and anybody that reader is way off base. I too need a plan to follow.
ow ow! you have always looked great but i love seeing muscles on women – we’re strong and deserve to look great! i loved reading this as i’m looking into options for after baby…i don’t know if this would be the best one, but it’s good to stay educated right?!
All of your hard work paid off, you look amazing!
You look great! Reading about your workouts when you started, inspired me to start the program. I begin week 7 on Sunday and I feel huge in this phase, so I’m glad to hear how great you felt in phase 3! Love your blog and I don’t comment often ( read in google reader) but I had to comment on your results. Thanks for being so inspiring!
You go girl! I am so impressed! We are going to Mexico in 7 weeks so I need to get my butt in gear!
Um, how do you whislte in a comment?
woo woo! Dang girl, you are looking awesome! As always though really. But just super super toned. Great job!!
Girl you are looking fabulous!!!! I started with the Livefit trainer a few weeks ago. Today I did week 3 chest and triceps…I am going to be sore tomorrow! I am loving the plan and getting back into a weight training routine. Like you, I like to follow a structured program. It takes out the hassle of trying to think what to do! All you need is a printout and you are on your way. I can’t wait to hear what your next fit adventure is! Have you ever considered P90x??? I know it’s in the same family as insanity, but I think it’s more weight training focused.
You look amazing!! I’m doing the program now and as you did, not following the meal program, only the workout regime. I sure hope to see the same results as you! :)
never commented but i just had to. YOU. ARE. AN. INSPIRATION. marshall is a lucky man ;)
beautiful post. love love love. i totally agree with u! LOVE U GIRL you look amaaaaaaazing so proud of you.
Those nike shorts..I have the capri-length ones, if they’re the “Combat” line. I’ve heard the Lululemon Wunder Unders line is similar but I loooooove the Nikes. I have almost bought the ones you have but worry they may be too short on my long legs? You totally rock them! And you look AMAZING!
well obviously everyone has already said what im about to say, but ill say it anyway. you look great! perfectly lean and toned. i have zero interest in the program but if i were looking for inspiration id have found it here, thats for sure.
You. Look. Phenomenal.
I started over with Phase 1 yesterday and am going to be eating and lifting like a champ this time through.
I searched my Costco high and low but we don’t have those BCAAs. I may have to do a mail trade with you, because I have something you want.
(that sounds dirty)
Hope you are having a blast in Mexico!!!
You look fantastic! I’ve been getting SO BORED with my workout routine, and yesterday started LiveFit myself. But here is the problem, and I’m really wondering what you think it’s effect will be on my results: in 2010 I donated a kidney, meaning I’m stuck with just ole’ righty to keep my body functioning. Normally having one kidney doesn’t matter at all – I just can’t take NSAIDs for pain relief or anti-inflammation….and I can’t eat a lot of protein. In fact, I’m specifically supposed to eat a LOW protein diet. For example, maybe a 115lb person would have 115gr of protein a day…I can have 1/2 that. So like, 1gr of protein per kg of weight (2.2lbs).
I’m worried that, since I can’t follow a high protein diet like is recommended, that I won’t be able to see the amazing results you’ve seen. I try to eat well (fruits, veggies, etc) but I live in Africa (Kenya, with the USG) so that also makes things a bit difficult, and I live with a darling husband (USMC) who can’t keep weight ON to save his life, so I’m constantly trying to make sure he eats enough to not waste away (which usually means we’re not eating egg whites, that’s for sure).
ANYWAY, the husband thinks I’ll still see results because the plan is really good and I should just eat as well as possible without beating myself up, but I’m worried about the protein thing. I know you can only share your own personal thoughts, but I was wondering just what those personal thoughts are? Or, if there are any other Meals and Moves readers who have advice, I’m happy to hear it!
Sorry for rambling….
Dang girl! You look awesome!! I think you’ve convinced me to try this program out!
No wonder so many people are following LiveFit if the results are like that!
I tried it for a week, basically as a last resort because I’m injured, in poor health and very out of shape. However, I couldn’t stick to it because I’m very focused on cardio, and I don’t feel comfortable with lifting on my own (I need Body Pump or some kind of structure to make sure I’m pushing myself with correct form – I usually do Body Pump 2-4 times a week). My gym also has very limited equipment – I’d be so happy if it was possible to do the program without a gym: how do you think that would be possible?
The other problem I had was with the nutrition plan: I don’t really understand macros, so I had no idea how to try to follow it as closely as possible while still being vegan (not a ‘blog thing’ – veganism for me predated blogs by five years!) so I just went back to my old cycle: running until I’m badly injured and binge eating through severe depression. I’m really upset and frustrated with myself that so many other bloggers do well with this and look so great, particularly when they were in good shape to start with, yet I *need* to lose weight and couldn’t hack it. I just felt totally out of my depth.
You look amazing – just shows how hard work and dedication do pay off in the end.
xxx
You look great! Hope you’re having fun on vacation!
Check you out!!!! I admire and respect you so much Janetha. You’re dedicated, but realistic. You’re strong, but not obsessive. You’re basically one fabulous, fit, inspirational lady!
I love, love, love how honest you are in these posts… I did Body for life once about 5 years ago (eeeek!) – didn’t really stick to the nutrition part that well… but I did the workouts and ate ‘clean’ and was probably in the best shape of my life. I did it in Cali and then when I came back to London I sort of forgot and went back to eating restrictively to maintian my slimness… How DUMB of me! I eat healthily and balanced now – and do some exercise but youve really inspired me to give Body for Life another go… Hmmmm!
ALSO – Penny is so cute! Im dog obsessed and actually wanted an Entlebucher (sp?) after seeing them in the Simon and Schusters guide to dogs – it described that as being ‘very gentle with children, but extroadinarily strict with cows’ – I’ve never forgotten that – so cute! xox
seriously sister.
I GOT NOTHING BUT WOW.
You are AMAZING! You look so strong and damn I want your ARMS and ABS! Im so proud of you for completing it! Im with you on loving the program idea, I love Insanity because I can just wake up and pop a dvd in, not have to go to the gym and figure out what to do that day! Its nice to have a program, and it feels awesome when you finish it! I can’t wait to be done with Insanity ; )
Love you!
You look great! I’m about to finish up a modified version of LiveFit (had a stress fracture in my foot when I started) so I’m also looking for a new program. I may just take the phase 3 workouts and use them until I find something I like!
Wow! What a great recap and informative write up. I was curious as to your results on LiveFit and I really enjoyed this post. I must say that your results are impressive and say thank you for sharing.
It can’t be easy to put it all out there sometimes (especially when you get comments like the one you mentioned) but I just want to reiterate that 99.9% of us are rooting for you and not judging you and we really appreciate your blog!
I don’t have a gym membership right now so LiveFit isn’t for me at this point, but if/when I do have one again, it’s good to know I have this resource. I just started CrossFit about 4 weeks ago and am seeing some results so far but I just need to remind myself to be diligent and stick to it!
Thanks again and kudos!
holy CRAP! can i borrow that bod, please? :)
you look amazing!! i can’t wait to see what you think of ItWorks Ultimate Body Applicator!
It should be on the way tomorrow! I’m stopping at the post office before my 8am class!!!
xoxoxo. Have an amazing vacation!!
So inspiring Janetha! You seriously look awesome.
I’m still in Phase 1 of the trainer and I’m loving it so far. The best part is that I have Isaac on board and we’re doing it together. It’s been fun lifting with him. :)
I hope you’re having a blast in Mexico!!
well you definitely convinced me to stick with it. I’m almost done with phase 2 and I’m ready for phase 3 to kick my ass.
You look amazing! I am currently finishing up week 4 in phase 1. I have been doing some cardio though, it is hard for me not do it.
I as excited as I am about moving to phase 2 and increasing weights. I have to confess your I felt like a whale comment scares me. I am just going to have to remember I started this to regain muscle and bulk up a little, and like you have faith in the program and phase 3.
Thanks for the recap! Enjoy your vacay. You earned it!
Thank-you so much for posting this. I got half way through P90X over the summer and got pretty bulking. I had a lot of people commenting about it and it made me so self-conscious that I stopped. I really wish I had known then that my muscles would get that cut look had I kept with the program. You look amazing and have inspired me to get back to lifting. I want to not only look my best but feel my best. Thanks again and enjoy your vacation, you deserve it!
You.are.awesome.
I am so jealous of your muscles — your arms are ridiculous!
And I love you for all of your reasonable, relatable comments on what worked for YOU.
Good golly almighty!!! You look incredible. Always have. But I want to eat you up.
So proud of you xoxox
You look amazing!
Ok 1. You look amazing you ALWAYS have. I can’t believe someone actually contacted you about “gaining” weight. Who cares even if you did? Are they saying that’s a bad thing? Who has the audacity to be mad at someone for that. It’s common food blogger knowledge NO ONE posts 100% of what they eat. Do you want a picture of every time I stick a grape or cracker in my mouth? I don’t think so.
But again regardless you always look amazing. Before and after the program. And ps to that reader. Women are suppose to have curves and a bit of “flab” if you will. It’s how our bodies are made. Gotta support those baby making organs!
You look fabulous!!! I’m definitely trying this….thanks for the inspiration!
you look BAD-ASSSSSSSS! your arms and shoulders are awesome! i mean your abs look fantastic too and so do your legs, but your upper body clearly benefited from that bulking phase so that person who said you looked bigger can shut their mouth. i bet they don’t have that kind of muscle.
anyway, i’m working my way through the livefit trainer. i kind of shortened phase one and added in additional exercises early (pull ups, dips, etc). so i’m movin’ on to phase 2! which is what i’m really excited about because i want to build muscle. i can deal with being bulkier for a little while – who cares, it will be worth it :)
anyway awesome job!!
HOLY CRAP!
Your body is insane. Really, just look at those muscles and cuts everywhere! Obviously your abs are flawless- but the bicpes?!?
Great job with the program. You are definitely a living example that hard work gets results- and very inspiring!
Amazing results! I’m doing the LiveFit trainer right now, too, and I’m
On day 52. Your comment about bulking in phase
2 was so reassuring! In addition to LiveFit I’ve also been doing a few days of BodyPump each week and a cardio class. I can definitely see muscle gains, but I’m glad to know that I’ll start leaning in phase 3. I’ve got a lot to lose!
Hope you’re enjoying Mexico!
Wow. You look amazing and I’m jealous that you are on the beach right now.
So I’m on day 44. And I didn’t do the diet. I’m with you on that. But I’m curious about the supplements, specifically BCAAs and EFAs. I haven’t used either of those (I do protein already) … and am curious about your schpeel on these, actually.
I just posted my progress yesterday (http://chimesdesign.com/blog/2012/02/02/week-9ish-progress/). I also am totally getting messed with by the scale. It keeps creeping up. Which is fine, but I have no idea if I’m losing fat and gaining muscle (probably, but I want to know how much). Any suggestions? I also feel like I should be working harder on my cardio. I do intervals and I don’t do the trainer EVERY day … I add a day for a long run in and I do something different on the day each week I don’t have time to do the 90 minutes of this.
Any suggestions? I want to keep up with this, but I’m not seeing the results I want yet. I used to be able to lose really easily and build lean muscle fast, but I’m not 23 anymore.
Hey there- I’m on day 37ish and I’m feeling like a whale too. Wondered if you kept it up and what happened with your progress? I tried to go to your update but it wouldn’t load for some reason. (I think my malware kicked in?)
I did end up starting over because I punked out on lifting with areas that were already bulging (ie. my butt) and I thought I’d start phase 2 over and do it right.
I’m still feeling a little bulky, but this time around it is CLEARLY muscle.
I did change the way I was doing cardio though. Instead of phoning it in after lifting, I did the 30 mins of cardio FIRST. I also have been doing intervals with the cardio (1 min on 1 min off on hard days — where the lifting part is easier for me, and 1 min on 2 mins off on easier days).
I haven’t been following her nutrition plan, and I KNOW if I did follow it, then I would be seeing the results I wanted to. I just don’t have that sort of discipline. I eat clean, and I eat low carb. Eating the same boring thing (turkey muffins???) every day would drive me batty.
This is where I was at two weeks ago. Not where I want to be just yet:
http://www.chimesdesign.com/blog/2012/03/02/day-39-take-2-or-awkward-underwear-photo-time-4/
You look great! I’m on week 5 of live fit and so far I love it. I have a goal to look good in those Nike pro shorts!
Also, I cannot BELIEVE somebody actually said that you weren’t being honest and that you clearly gained weight.
And now that I am reading this entire entry (I skimmed quick before my previous comment) — I am a Phase 2 whale right now, and I am SO glad you mentioned that. Because I am there. I actually want to re-do the last 2 weeks now that I’ve read this because I was lifting LIGHTER weight because I was bulking up so much. I had been doing 350 lb leg presses (yeah you heard me, what up?) and my butt got HUGE. HUGE I tell ya … my jeans barely fit — but the waist fits impressively with no muffin top anymore, so obviously was doing something right.
I’m redoing the last two weeks.
Side note — I started in November after Thanksgiving. So … I’ve hit more than 12 weeks too. I redid the first 2 weeks because I was so sore after them (I go gung ho and lifted way heavier weights than I should have) that I felt I should get a handle on lifting before moving on. I also had a week at my parents house with no access to a gym, and I have also tried to keep my long running days in there, so I have an 8 day week with one day of running in there instead of a 7 day week.
Anyway … glad I finished reading this because I’ve felt like a cow all month. I joined WeightWatchers to help my boyfriend (who genuinely needs to lose weight) and I’ve been eating a TON of fruits and veggies and even been eating cleaner than normal (I’m not eating fake crap. i hate fake crap. i don’t care if it’s zero points. if it’s fake, it doesn’t go in my body) .. and I’ve gained 6 pounds alone since adding the nutrition part to this whole thing.
Wow. longest comment ever. Sorry about that. I’m stuck in phase two. Feeling like a cow. And hoping to move on and look super awesome soon.
ONE MORE THING. Then I’m done. I swear.
I love the idea of re-doing some of the weeks. I was planning on picking my favorite weeks and keeping those in my back pocket for when I get in a rut later. I do much better when I have a training plan. I’m thinking of training for another marathon and having these go-to strength workouts will be key to me.
Ummmm…holy dang you look good. Your shoulders are pretty much the best things I’ve ever seen. Good work, you!
What happened to “if you don’t have anything nice to say don’t say anything at all”? Isn’t that part of blog etiquette? I can not believe someone contacted you to be negative! Psh! I’m so glad you pushed on, you look A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!
A: you’re fucking hot. B: I really have to figure out if there’s a plan for nursing moms.
You look so freaking amazing…it’s my inspiration to stick through the whole program! thoughts on whether to go thru phase 3 right away or just wait and build more in phase two? I don’t really want to lose much weight and definitely not muscle.
I hope Jamie Eason sees this post! Hot damn! You’re Live Fit poster girl material! I hope you’re having a fab time flaunting that beach-ready body in Mexico. Ow Ow!
I’ve been doing BFL for 3 weeks, and have been enjoying the program, however a trainer at my gym advised me to change it up, as the weight-lifting component isn’t ideal for someone who wants to gain serious muscle mass (his words). I hate to jump ship, as you described here, but I’m thinking Live Fit might be more conducive to my goals. Thoughts? Also, if I were to do Live Fit, do you think that adding cardio to the Phase 1 would be counterproductive?
You are beautiful and so strong! I have struggled with weight my entire life (both sides, under and overweight) and I always looked to running as my go-to workout. However, running never gave me the body I wanted. Weight training has completely transformed my life. I love going to the gym and love mixing HIIT cardio with strength training sessions. AND THANK YOU for being realistic about diet….I spent so many years depriving myself, I don’t want to do that again to get the results I want (and I realized I don’t need to, if I eat clean 80% of the time, I’m good!). Thanks for showing us that a normal and beautiful woman can achieve the results she wants by being disciplined but without going overboard. I love food too much to eat clean 100% of the time :) I also struggle with gut issues, so I have always admired the open and honest approach you give people on your blog (I hate my gut too!!!). And how dare ANYONE give you negative comments or feedback! Kudos to you for going for what you want, but for being realistic, level headed, and smart about it! I hope to look more like you this summer (your abs are amazing, I have never seen mine). :)
i have seen a huge influx of blogland jump on her bandwagon. clearly, this works and your body looks incredible! your arms are so toned & the legs go on for miles! as a fellow shortie, i know how difficult it is to achieve that leggy look! though janetha, i gotta say i felt tall standing next to you haha:)
one of the things that left me uninterested in this program you mentioned being that it requires a lot of equipment (i am sans gym membership) and also sometimes it goes up to 90mins! maybe she’ll do a shorter program someday and i’d definitely give it a go then. but for now, i’m making up my own workouts 4x weekly. 2 days of a random yoga download episode (love my app) and 2 days of short cardio+bodyrock style workout topping out at no more than 30mins.
i’m so happy marshall found his ring! nate almost lost his in the ocean on our honeymoon…i cried ha. surprise? all your hard work definitely paid off and i’m sure you have the best bod at your company vacation ^_*
You look amazing! Super fit! Good job for you! I think it’s time for a new program for my workout routine. Haven’t decided on what. But a change is a must :)
Hope you are enjoying Mexico
Congrats woman! You’ve gotta be feeling fantastic!
holy balls. you look drop dead freaking amazing. your arms, your legs, your abs. i want.
you are my #1 inspiration. seriously.
You look great! I am completely jealous of your arms and shoulders! I have spent years pining away for an amazing upper body but do not like strength training or lifting so I guess I’m screwed… ;)
Maybe I’ll give this program a shot, but I’m in the heat of marathon training now so it might be awhile.
Seriously, you look great and you’ll totally be rocking the beach in Mexico!
You look incredible! :) This is such an inspiration and definitely very encouraging to see such awesome results!
Abs solutly fantastic! Your hard work really paid off
you look awesome!!! ive looked at her program before and would love to try it i just dont belong to a gym right now. boo! maybe after my marathon in april ill focus on weight lifting and get me a gym membership. congrats!!
Post baby I’m so trying this! I had already been thinking about it now I’m sold! Rock those and girl :)
Holy crap! You look AMAZING!!!!!
I started Live Fit, but quit after 10 days. I am definitely planning to pick it back up because I really liked the workouts and now that I see your sexy crazy muscles I’m even more motivated.
You go, lady!
This is a great recap of the program, especially sharing how you felt bigger during the second phase but stuck with it. I think the real-life experiences of people really help to show the most complete picture. I don’t have a gym membership anymore, so I’ve been playing around with a spin on her program using the TRX – but I completely agree that it means my results may vary.
Great job sticking with it and you look great!! Hope you’re having a wonderful time on your trip!
You look AMAZING!! Thanks for the recap, I’ve been looking at starting this program soon!
I am super impressed with your arm muscles! I want arms like that. I’m doing Insanity right now which I love. But I’m thinking about what to do after I’m done with Insanity. Maybe I’ll try livefit afterwards.
This is AWESOME. Great results, and holy shit, from a free program? Mad props to you. Enjoy your time on the beach!
whoever left that comment about you gaining weight is an asshat. forreal.
also, you look amazing. 2 inches lost around each thigh? what the heck? I don’t think I’ve ever had space there lol my legs are so bulky. also those shorts look awesome and i think i need a pair.
You look amazing.. I’m just finishing up week 5- and Im starting to get that bulky feeling your talking about.. I haven’t been following the food plan- but as a vegetarian I have a hard time with finding variety and get bored.. then I start eating pizza, and grilled cheese.. I know I have to eat more clean- and I’m really trying to refocus my attention on that so that all of this work isn’t for nothing!
You look amazing!!!!!! Defo thinking of trying this x x x
Damn girl! I am on the last week of Phase 2 right now and I am already pleased by the results. Phase 1 was when I felt I was gaining weight, but now I’m on a steady decline. I’m terrified of the cardio and intervals in Phase 3, but excited to challenge myself and hopefully see more results.
Also, I never liked ST before but now I kind of it. I love the variety in the workouts and that the plan tells me what to do everyday. It has helped me stay consistent, for sure. I don’t know what I’ll do after either, but I definitely want to keep lifting.
Thanks for the review!
You look amazing! I am way too much of a cardio lovah to commit to a workout plan like that (I’m usually training for a half or full marathon) but at some point if I take a break from racing, I would love to try something like that, if only to gain those enviable abs!!! Which I’m sure are currently in their element a la playa :)
Janetha you look absolutely amazing. What I love about your passion for fitness is that in addition to looking awesome through your hard work you are so excited and passionate about the process, which I think is something that most people don’t think about. Coming from someone who is not very into fitness, you inspire some of that excitement in me!
Hi there! Just stopping by to catch up with what you’ve been up to and let you know how fantastic you look! I LOOOOOOVE your approach to how you got in such great shape too: so important for the long-haul! Take it from someone who trained for a figure comp and then did a 180 the week after I competed. It was TOO strict and I just recently got back to enjoying weight-training again after nearly 15 months of not doing any because the strictness completely put me off it (and let’s not mention the diet portion of it). You are a great example of getting super-fit through moderation – and a way you can do it for a lifetime! You’re definitely an INSPIRATION to me :-)
you are such a hottie! omg this is just amazing! and i totally agree on the cardio thing..when i do it 3 times a week my legs get so much smaller!
xoxo!
I just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to post the detail about the plan, the phases and your results! I am absolutely going to give this a shot because of your recommendations. You look ah-maz-ing!!
You always look fit, but wow! Great results! I’d love your abs! ;) I can’t do her program as I workout at home but I do want to try some of her recipes for clean eating.
Congrats, you look fantastic!
Thanks for the honest review of re program. I am on week 5 and am bulking up and am extremely frustrated, but I’m sticking with it!!
I think you inspired more people than your realize by starting this workout!!
Ok, as a girl with “strong legs” I can totally appreciate the gap! Good for you girl! I can tell you worked REALLY hard and definitely did a great job not only sticking to it, but keeping a good balance.
I know that you are self-taught so here’s a q for you. Sometimes I don’t feel like I have the knowledge to do a lot of weights workouts by myself. I mean, I’ve been doing videos/body pump/lifting with friends for a while so it’s not like I’m starting from nothing.
How do you figure out proper form? Just by looking it up and watching videos? Thoughts on that appreciated. :)
You look awesome! I have been looking at doing this program after hearing more and more about it. I have to admit the bulking up in phase 2 kind of freaks me out, but as you say you have to trust the program.
Great work, very inspirational!
I am planning on starting this program next week. I am like you when it comes to cardio…hate it!
Anyways, I want your arms ;)
You look FANTASTIC!
I am just starting the program and wanted to ask you about weight.
I know you got the scale that measures change in baseline ( VS actual weight).
Would you be willing to share what your final difference in weight was while on the program?
I am thicker through the legs and am VERY envious of your lower body results.
Thanks
I’ve been curious about the program. Thanks for the thorough recap! You look amazing! The program clearly works!!!
I like that you point out that you followed it without making changes, and that’s why you saw the results you did. I know I couldn’t commit to a program like this at this point, but I’m certainly keeping the reminder to switch things up frequently in mind. I tend to get stuck… And, as you point out, that’s where a plan is very useful…
you. look. so. fit. congrats!
WhaHoo – As always, you continue to inspire me. Wait a go!
Dayum! I have been toying with the idea of going forward with this program and after seeing your results, I have got to try it!
WAhooo!! This is awesome! Congrats–I bet you’re loving being in a swimsuit in Mexico right now. You totally deserve it (and earned it)!!! VERY cool. I need a new protein powder, so I have to check that out-thanks!
Loved the review! Thanks for the details…I may look into those workouts for some variety.
You look GREAT! Well done! Enjoy your vacation! :)
I’ve been thinking about doing this, thanks for the inspiration!
You look amazing! Congratulations. :)
You are AWESOME.
Seriously, amazing results.
It would probably take me 5 rounds through the whole thing to get to that kind of results. ;)
I’m excited to get to the last stage! Phase 2 kinda sucks with all the bulk and not much fat loss. I feel bigger when the whole point it to get smaller. But you give me hope.
Love ya! Thanks for sharing the results!
I feel the same way. I am also in the middle of phase 2 and I feel so puggie like I am doing something wrong. It’s nice to know that I could still be on the right track cause others have the same feeling!
Me three! Gah, I’m glad I re-read this post- all of these people saying the same thing makes me feel better.
DAMN! I’ll say it again, DAMN!!!
This post was fantastic, you look incredible, and it completely sold me on starting the program! I was already committed to doing it, and have everything mapped out to start this week, but had a few nagging doubts (especially in the cardio department, as I am a distance runner by trade and the thought of NO cardio for a month is like… no water!). However, I’m also a firm believer in following programs and tweaking them as little as possible, and I LOVE lifting over cardio (running aside) any day, so I feel as though it will be a good fit!
Thanks for the informative and inspiring post! :)
Holy crapola [excuse the language], banging body :) Great work and great motivation for the rest of us!!!
Wow you look amazing! And thank you for all the info about what you tried, liked, etc. I’m going to give this a shot when I’m ready to try something new.
Congratulations!!! I gave just one question and I’m really hoping someone will
finally have an answer for me. I have been on depo for.2 years and everything I
seem to do always and I mean always leads back to gaining. Do you think the
depo will mak it harder? Please help me!
Congratulations!!! I gave just one question and I’m really hoping someone will
finally have an answer for me. I have been on depo for.2 years and everything I
seem to do always and I mean always leads back to gaining. Do you think the
depo will mak it harder or impossible?? Please help! Thank you. And congratulations again :)
I am so sorry Nikki but I don’t even know what depo is…
I think she means depo provera, the birth control shot. :)
Hot damn. You look great! You looked great before, too. And whoever commented that you looked like you gained weight while in phase 2 is a hater. Who says shit like that? Ugh. Anyway, just wanted to say congrats on reaching your edge! It must feel fantastic! Have fun in Mexico and please devour lots of guac and ceviche for me. Mmmmm….
Wow, you’ve really inspired me to give this a shot. I’m training for a Tough Mudder and then a half marathon right now, but after that, I’m throwing this one in! The only thing I think I’ll have a hard time with is working out alone…I love my group classes! But they don’t get results like this!
Question for you……………you said in your Con list that: a lot of equipment is required, so if you don’t have a gym membership it may be tricky (but it can be done)
Is there any site that tells you, what your alternate options are if you don’t have access to gym equiptment every day? Or any easy way to search what they might be?
Days/nights I have my kids, I can’t get to the gym.
I don’t know of an actual site, but if you join the facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/JE12WeekTrainer/ there are a lot of people who can help you!
Question…..so is this workout about weight loss or just building muscle?
my only concern is I dont want to look like a body builder just work off the fat and look lean
It is for both weight loss and muscle gain. Best of both worlds!
You look amazing! You’re inspiring!
Thanks for the feedback, Emily!
You look great. Good job.
But I wouldn’t recommend this lifting program for a beginner, or even an intermediate lifter. Body part splits are for more advanced lifters. I’m guessing most of your readers should be hitting each muscle group 2-3 times per week. Pretty much all the routines on Bodybuilding.com are ridiculous and designed to convince new lifters they need complicated routines designed by experts–”and while you’re at it buy these supplements with my name on them!”
Another thing: you said “the workouts are switched up every 2 weeks so you aren’t bored (and you don’t plateau).” That’s nonsense. Your body doesn’t need to be tricked into building strength/muscle. All you need is to lift heavier and heavier.
Thanks for your comment and thoughts!
Personally, I have found that I DO need to switch up my routine. For one, it is a mental thing. If I get bored with my workouts, then I am more likely to skip them. 2 weeks of the same workout was just perfect for me because I didn’t get bored and I was always looking forward to a change in the next 2 weeks.
As far as plateauing goes, I have found that I can do the same routine for 6 to 8 weeks, but after that I do need to shake things up a bit. You say it is nonsense, but everyone is different. Our bodies do crave variety, and I know from personal experience that doing the same routine but just increasing my weights was NOT getting me anywhere progress-wise. That is awesome that it’s all you need to do. My husband is the same way.
Many of my readers are lifting veterans, so I think they will find this program to suit them. I started with Body for LIFE which was upper body/lower body splits, and this was great for the time being, but like I said.. I hit a dead end and wasn’t making progress. This program was what my body needed to get back on the muscle-gaining track.
I do know that a lot of the programs on BB.com are geared toward advanced lifters (and they just want to sell their supplement stacks) but this program is a great one for beginners. I know many people who have used it to start lifting and their results have been PHENOMENAL. The reason I think it is great for beginners is the phase breakdown.
The first phase has you lifting at 60% of max effort, four or five days a week, and you build a solid base and get a feel for lifting. The second phase incorporates heavier lifting with less reps and moderate cardio. The third phase is light weight, high reps, and HIIT. This program outlines three of the major lifting methods and I think it gives beginners a very realistic idea of what lifting is all about and the benefits from it.
Just my thoughts, to each his/her own. Thanks again for your comment!
If you need to switch it up out of boredom that’s fine (although getting stronger is all the excitement I need). But you can’t squat (for example) week after week, month after month and not continuously get stronger–assuming your diet is right. Your body doesn’t need variety. It needs stress and an appropriate diet.
Last thing: any routine that doesn’t have you squatting at least 2x/week, especially for women, is doing you a serious disservice.
Aside from the first two weeks, which has one day devoted to squats, there are two days of squatting–and LOTS OF IT–for the remaining 10 weeks of the program.
Changing your body composition is not always just a matter of upping your weights. It is not that easy for us all. I have had my BF% checked multiple times whilst completing various programs which will confirm the fact that if I do the same thing for too long, I hit a wall. The only thing I have seen to work is changing things up a bit.
Do you have a recommendation John for at-home people? I only have 5 lb and 8 lb dumbells. What can I do effectively each week as a “plan’ to feel successfull vs. …not?
Hi, you look great. I don’t have access to a gym but you said that this program can be done at home right?.. Can you please tell me how modify the workouts with dumbbells?… Thank you.
Hi Sandra!
I actually don’t know the best way to go about doing it at home. I just know people who have done it and that it can be done. If you want to hear from people who have done it, check out http://edibleperpective.com (ashley) she is doing it now, or there are a lot of people in the FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/JE12WeekTrainer/
I actually think there is a whole FB at home group.. yes, just found it!!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/306289266066827/
THEY will be able to help you!!!
Thanks for sharing all your thoughts about Live Fit…I just jumped in with my niece who had already done phase 1. I have been doing Phase 2 with her for about three weeks. Previously I had trained for a marathon, half marathon, and started lifting for a year with a trainer, but only twice a week. I hope I see some results in Phase 3, because although I feel stronger, I don’t see much difference in my body. I am sticking pretty closely to the eating plan, but not perfectly. I lift with my niece, who already knows the plan pretty well, but then twice a week, I still work out with an awesome trainer, who does circuits and heavy whole body lifting. You talked about sticking with the plan, do you think that i will still see results if I do something a little different twice a week? I really love my trainer, and don’t want to lose my spot with her, but I want to try to finish the 12 week training with my niece, and see what happens.
I think that any amount of weight lifting will yield results, but phase 3 is where the magic happens and the workouts are very intense.. it would be hard to keep up with all of them AND other workouts with a trainer. With that said, I don’t think you will be worse off if you do it your way.. I mean, working out is working out which is better than the couch!
Ok thanks for that…another quick question…have you seen anywhere on the site where it is said how much muscle or weight should be a goal during phase 2? I started off at 134 and am now 138…when my trainer checked me with calibers, before i started this program, she said i had gained 4 lbs of muscle in one year. At that time I was about the same weight i am now, but i’m always messing with my diet, so who knows what i was doing when she checked me. Anyhow, I see definintion in my arms, and some in my back…abs and butt are still terrible! I’m just trying to decide whether to go on to 3 with my niece, who really helps motivate me…or stay in 2 to build more muscle..any thoughts?
Well that is all up to your own body and level.. so it will depend on you!
I just started week nine of the Livefit Trainer and I love it. Everything is more toned, except my abs. Any advice? When did you start noticing results?
Phase 3 is when I saw results–during the cutting phase!
you got me hooked on livefit! thank you so much! i am on phase 2 and feel like a whale too! glad to see there is light at the end of the tunnel!!
Thanks for sharing your views on the Livefit training as this is on my to-do-list after I have finished “New Rules of Lifting for Women” and I wanted to know how good the program is, and by your amazing pictures I would say it is brilliant! They are abs to die for :).
I am new to strength training, only previously doing cardio classes, so it’s great to hear about good programmes, because I am like you that I need to be focused and have a plan of what to do and when as I will get bored and not challenge myself in the gym.
I was also pleased to hear that you didn’t follow the nutrition plan and still looked great by following your own healthy clean eating as I am not one for having/taking supplements, only protein shakes after a weight workout.
What a great review! I just started Jamie’s LiveFit trainer on Tuesday and I’m so excited to see what it can do for me :)
hi janetha!
great review! especially appreciate the info for the supplements..i;m not really into all that stuff so it was nice to see what you had to say about it. anyways im really excited to start this program
Your guns are super impressive! When I first saw this post when you published it (but forgot to comment), I was shocked by how big they were!
If I remember correctly, you have done a bunch of programs, from BFL, Insanity, NRFL to Livefit. Which one did you like the best?
Where did you have these pics taken? Did you not take before photos (for comparison)?
Thanks! My mom took these photos. just with my camera in her basement one morning. Haha.. So they’re not edited or fancy or professional. Maybe one day I can do some like that! I did have before photos but my old laptop crashed during livefit. I’m sad. Not about those photos but about my honeymoon ones :(
Oh oops forgot to say I liked bfl and livefit best–for different reasons. They’re both amazing programs but I liked aspects of one and the other do much that I can’t pick. Insanity wasn’t great.
You are an inspiration!
Just wondering if you worked by a macro breakdown for Phase I? What do you suggest?