Insanity Max 30

     I first began my health and fitness journey with Focus T25 DVDs that I borrowed from my coach. I was hesitant to invest in a program if I wasn't going to like it or stick with it. Needless to say, I loved it and got my own set for Xmas. Why did I love it? One huge reason- the workouts are only 25 minutes long. But probably even more of a factor was Shaun T. He is such a special person: positive, funny, cheerful, motivating, and a fine physical role model;)

     Insanity was a program that I had heard about, but it was never something that I thought would be right for me. I figured it would be too hard, and some of the workouts are quite long. I had no reason or desire to even try it. Then Insanity Max 30 came out. Only 30 minute workouts, no equipment, and Shaun T promised to get me even better results. So I put my faith in him, and ordered it on the first day it was available. It didn't hurt that some of my friends were doing it too, and we were excited to be in another challenge group together, this one dedicated to just those who were doing Insanity Max 

30. 

   Fast forward 30 days. I have loved every minute! The workouts are really hard, but the whole idea is that you do as much as you can to "Max Out" (take a break) then get back in and continue the best you can. There is a modifier who does a low impact version of everything, and I follow that for some of the drills that I'm not yet able to do or when I'm just not feeling up for the full on workout. 

    This challenge began in early December, which means that I have been doing it all through the holidays. Which also means that I did not stick to the diet plan as much as I normally would have. I enjoyed lots of "cheats" including but not limited to real NY pizza, ice box cake, candy canes, peppermint bark, cupcakes, chocolate babka, truffles, macaroni and cheese, Ben and Jerry's... I'll stop before I embarrass myself further. 

   So how'd I do? I honestly would have been happy to simply break even, but in spite of my holiday indulgences and a few sick days when I could not workout I still made good progress! I lost a total of 7 inches- 3 of those from my waist! This workout is like my soul mate of workouts. Seriously, if I can cheat like that, skip a few workouts, and still make progress?! Imagine what can happen when I am more careful with my food choices! I can't really help being sick. That's just something I've got to live with and take the breaks when I need them. My success has me super motivated for the next 30 days, which will include my 45th birthday. What better gift to give myself than the gift of health and fitness? 

     Contact me if you would like help and support making some changes of your own. I would be more than happy to help:) Email me at hbalshem@gmail.com or find me on facebook.