I’ve got exciting news!  But first…

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A wonderful lunch!  I love salads when it’s so hot outside.  This mix was absolutely divine and super filling.

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The mix contained:

 

  • Spinach, arugula, and mixed greens
  • Raw broccoli
  • Stir-fried artichokes
  • Sundried tomatoes
  • Stir-fried corn

 

And on the side, I had two pieces of hearty bread with Chocolate PB.

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And for afternoon snack #1, I had a bowl of cherries:

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My New Fitness Challenge

 

Yesterday, I took a poll asking for suggestions for my latest fitness challenge.  My requirements were as follows:

 

  • It can’t be a huge time commitment – a max of 1 hour a day, 4 times a week.
  • I need to be able to do it from the comforts of my home or while traveling.  I don’t belong to a gym!
  • I’d like to make my running faster… my pace has dropped lately because I haven’t been doing speedwork!
  • I actually like exercise videos.
  • I’d like to tone up and get stronger.
  • I could sign up for a 5K without feeling too  much ‘training pressure.’

 

In order of popularity, I received the following suggestions:

 

  • P90X or the INSANITY Workout DVDs:  Although more than 25 commenters recommended these programs, I have to pass because 1) I don’t want to spend $100 on workout DVDs; 2) I’ve heard Insanity is not a good plan for people with knee problems; and 3) It’s an hour a day, all week.  Too much time commitment for me right now.

 

  • TRAIN FOR SPEED:  An equal number of people recommended that I train for speed, whether I set my sights on getting speedy for a mile, 5K, or 10K distance. 

 

  • YOGA CHALLENGE:  About 10 people suggested I try a month-long yoga challenge.  Many people recommended the Yoga Downloads site so I could do the challenge without having to join a studio.

 

Other suggestions included:

 

 

THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH FOR THE SUGGESTIONS!  It was a lot of fun to read everyone’s thoughts and experiences about Fitness Challenges.

 

I’ve decided to do a TWO part challenge.  :)  It’s a HYBRID Speedy 5K + Jillian Michaels’ No More Trouble Zones Challenge!

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I’ve done Jillian Michaels’ 30 Day Shred before as a 30-day blog challenge (recap) and loved it.  After hearing such great things about NMTZ (and yes, the title of that DVD sucks), I really want to try it!

 

But I know from experience with the 30 Day Shred that the DVD isn’t truly a ‘stand alone’ workout, and I want to continue running regularly (of course), so I’ll be starting a Speedy 5K training plan in hopes of FINALLY beating my 5K personal record of 23:42.  I’m going to aim for a sub-23:00 race.

 

I’m excited for this new blog challenge because 1) I can do it at home or while traveling; and 2) there’s enough variety so I won’t get bored.  I think NMTZ will help me shape my body in new ways (especially because I struggle to do any sort of weight training regularly).

 

I’m starting the challenge NEXT MONDAY so stay tuned for my training schedule! Anyone else want to join me in the Speedy 5K/NMTZ Challenge?

{ 116 comments }

 

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs June 15, 2010, 2:34 pm

    Great new challenge! I wish I could join you in it but that DVD isn’t available over here 🙁 but all the best in it! I’m sure you’ll rock it like everything else 😛

    • Becca June 16, 2010, 2:53 am

      I was so tempted to buy a Region 1 DVD player for that very reason! I take it you’ve tried 30-Day Shred already – that was slow to come out, but now it’s available on iTunes and Amazon.

  • Sarah for Real June 15, 2010, 2:35 pm

    Great challenge! I can’t do the running right now (doctor’s orders) but that DVD is intriguing. Do you know if she requires any equipment (hand weights)? I might snag it from Netflix and try it with you!

    • Caitlin June 15, 2010, 2:37 pm

      Yes, just like the 30 day shred, you need handweights. I have two 3 lb handweight and will prob also pick up some 5ers.

  • Beth @ Beth's Journey to Thin June 15, 2010, 2:36 pm

    That’s an awesome idea!! I love NMTZ and I think you’ll find it to be a much more complete workout than the Shred. The Shred DVDs are just a little too short to be a whole workout, but I love the idea of combining the DVDs with running for speed. Good luck!!

  • Heather (Heather's Dish) June 15, 2010, 2:40 pm

    i might do my own version, but heck yes! let’s do this 🙂

  • Katie June 15, 2010, 2:41 pm

    I have been procrastinating starting the NMTZ DVD again for two weeks, tomorrow is the day! It is hard but definitely gets results. Are you planning on doing it every day?

    • Caitlin June 15, 2010, 2:43 pm

      I planned to do the 30 day shred everyday and then ended up doing like 24 out of 30 days I think. So I might aim for 4 days of NMTZ a week so I don’t feel too overwhelmed.

      • Katie June 15, 2010, 2:48 pm

        I feel like that is the perfect amount to do it without getting burned out… I am totally using this challenge to stay motivated!

      • Colleen June 15, 2010, 4:36 pm

        You’ll definitely need days of rest between NMTZ – I love this DVD and I often do it once or twice a week and then one of my Jackie Warner DVDs once or twice a week, and the cardio DVDs from P90X on my no-weight days. My husband asked me the other day where I got these guns – I’m up to 8 pound weights on some of the circuits!

  • Tamara @ RealWorld Wellness June 15, 2010, 2:41 pm

    I’m looking forward to more Jillian!! Maybe I should do the challenge with you… I need a new toning DVD to work on…

  • Amber from Girl with the Red Hair June 15, 2010, 2:42 pm

    I haven’t tried the NMTZ dvd yet but I LOVE the shred! I’m excited to hear what you think of the NMTZ dvd. Will you do it every day like the shred challenge?!

    • Caitlin June 15, 2010, 2:43 pm

      see reply to comment 5!

      • Amber June 15, 2010, 2:53 pm

        Whoops totally missed that! Thanks 🙂 I agree – every day would be a lot!

  • Brie @ Brie Fit June 15, 2010, 2:43 pm

    Sounds like a good one! I am dying to beat a time goal for a 5K this year too.

  • Lindsay @ Summit Sandwiches June 15, 2010, 2:43 pm

    Cool challenge! I wish I could join, but I’m starting my training for a fall marathon! I think you’ll have a blast. Speed workouts are so touuuugh.

  • Jenny June 15, 2010, 2:44 pm

    I’ll join you! I run as is and love NMTZ… great challenge!

  • Sara June 15, 2010, 2:46 pm

    I have the No More Trouble Zones DVD. And I find it pretty challenging. Start with those three-pound weights!

  • Nancy June 15, 2010, 2:46 pm

    I’m trying to my very first “speedy” 5k on Sunday. I’m sick to my stomach nervous. My goal is sub 25:00

  • Cindi June 15, 2010, 2:49 pm

    I’m in! I loved 30 day shred too – and need to get in more weight training. Plus, my 5k time right now is just about 32 minutes and I’d love to get it to 28-29 this month. Great challenge!

  • Miranda @ Mirandasjeans June 15, 2010, 2:51 pm

    Wow under 23, that time smokes my time, but that’s ok with me. Good for you! They sound like great challenge goals!

  • Alyssa June 15, 2010, 2:51 pm

    I love NMTZ! It’s one of those DVDs that no matter how many times I do it, I can’t believe how hard it is each time. I’m actually planning to pop it in as soon as I get home from work tonight. Good luck (prepare for some sore muscles!)

  • Sana June 15, 2010, 2:52 pm

    I am just not crazy about DVD workout programs…. But I do wanna get SPEEDY!!!

  • Nancy June 15, 2010, 2:53 pm

    Ooh, I want to join this challenge, I would love to do a 5K under 30min. Sounds like a great combo and motivation!

  • megan June 15, 2010, 2:54 pm

    I just ran my fastest 5k ever last weekend, and I’m debating whether I want to keep training to get faster, or just cut back to more leisurely runs. We’re leaving for London for 10 days on Thursday, so we’ll see how much running I do there!

    side question – in London, do I have to have an adapter to charge my camera? I have the same one you do…

    • Caitlin June 15, 2010, 2:55 pm

      yes you need an adapter. however, i didnt charge my rebel once in england! over 10 days of constant shooting 🙂

  • Christina June 15, 2010, 2:54 pm

    Awesome goals! I love the NMTZs DVD, it hurts so good!

  • Jess June 15, 2010, 2:57 pm

    I’ll join ya! I’m really trying to break 24 on my 5k…so I’ll attempt to keep up with you!

  • Erinn June 15, 2010, 3:01 pm

    Yes! I was juuust thinking the other day about a new fitness goal because I was totally unmotivated. A speedy 5K is do-able for a busy schedule. Can’t wait for your plan!

  • Therese June 15, 2010, 3:01 pm

    I do NMTZ twice a week and have for a while, it’s GREAT! 45 minutes of strength training but it goes and goes and goes and you’re a sweaty mess at the end! I hooked up my heart rate monitor to do it one time and found out I burn over 400 calories in one session! LOVE it!

    I’m starting half marathon training next week (my first! Eek) so I’ll have to pass on the challenge but I’ll still be doing NMTZ twice a week so I can join in on that party!

  • Katie @ Ordinary Girl, Extraordinary Journey June 15, 2010, 3:08 pm

    Sounds like a good plan to me! I’ve not done the NMTZ video before. We’re moving at the end of the month and then after that I’m going to start a training program and then run my first 5k in the fall!

  • Rachel June 15, 2010, 3:09 pm

    I’ll join! I’m always working towards a speedier 5k, and am definitely working on upping the strength workouts. I probably won’t use NMTZ, but I have a strength plan in place and will vary it week by week but make sure to hit all the target areas.

  • Sue June 15, 2010, 3:12 pm

    Good luck with your new challenge. Jillian is great!

  • Julie @ Pickley Pear June 15, 2010, 3:14 pm

    Sounds like the perfect challenge, not too much time and will give great results! Can’t wait to hear about it!

  • Jessica @ How Sweet It Is June 15, 2010, 3:15 pm

    That’s an awesome choice. Good luck!

  • Emily June 15, 2010, 3:15 pm

    Yes! I will join you! I have the 30 day shred dvd and have never really used it, so I will do that one along with you. I believe you said you jog in place during the lunges to take care of your knees? Any other tips for someone prone to knee problems?

    • Caitlin June 15, 2010, 3:27 pm

      hmm not really – just don’t do the moves that bother you. i would jog in place or do push ups. oh and jillian does say “if your knees give you trouble, watch to make sure you don’t overextend your knee in this move” so pay attention! 🙂 have fun!

  • Nicole @ Geek Turned Athlete June 15, 2010, 3:15 pm

    Yay! I’m happy to see that you have found some direction again regarding your workouts! I’m like a lost puppy without something to train for!

  • shelby @ eatdrinkrun June 15, 2010, 3:16 pm

    Good luck! I’m trying to get my 5K time down too. Lots of intervals and tempo runs this summer!

  • Cali June 15, 2010, 3:17 pm

    Seems like a great challenge! I need to get my noodle arms in the gym. I’ll look to your commitment to speed and strength for some inspiration! 🙂

  • Lisa June 15, 2010, 3:19 pm

    I have a REALLY hard time with DVD workouts. I need something different. Or I need to structure of a scheduled workout–gym, swimming, running, etc.

  • Carolyn @ lovinlosing June 15, 2010, 3:20 pm

    It would be great if you could post your speed training schedule/workouts b/c I have no idea how to improve my speed.

    • Caitlin June 15, 2010, 3:28 pm

      i definitely will! 🙂

  • Jess June 15, 2010, 3:20 pm

    Speed work is fun! Plus, short distances (like 5Ks) are perfect for cranking out speed. I’ve decided that long runs like marathons are one of those “I must do in life” goals and I enjoy the training and work I put into it, but 5Ks are the super fun ones. They’re fast, quick, and short!

    I’m sure you know how to speed work already but just make sure you get lots of interval & tempo training in! Have fun 🙂

    What I want to do by the end of summer? 10 real full-form push-ups in a row (right now I’m at 7) and hopefully a perfect cartwheel. Mine are…so bad right now. And go rock climbing!

  • Camille June 15, 2010, 3:21 pm

    Great choice!
    I love 30 Day Shred, but Jillian is a crazy lady!

  • Amy @ Amy Starts To Run June 15, 2010, 3:22 pm

    I actually really enjoy the NMTZ dvd… well, enjoy is a strong word. I think its challenging and a really good work out. I also *love* the option that you can silence Jillian :D.

    I like this challenge and I think I’ll see if I can keep up. Its just super hot where I live right now, so I was going to depend on the elliptical for my endurance. Off to set up a schedule!

  • Kelly June 15, 2010, 3:23 pm

    Sounds like a fun plan! Good luck!

  • Jessie June 15, 2010, 3:24 pm

    I’m not usually one to try workout videos, I find them boring, but I really want to TONE! So I am going to go pick up the DVD tonight after work! I can’t do the speed training, as I am working towards my first half-marathon in October, but I am excited to do the DVD challenge along with you!

    • Caitlin June 15, 2010, 3:28 pm

      yay im glad you’re joining in, too!

  • Lauren June 15, 2010, 3:25 pm

    I love your new challenge! I am excited to read about you increasing your speed. I am hoping to run a 25minute (or less) 5k this fall and want to start working on my speed as well!
    Also, I love NMTZ. I used to do it all the time before I had a gym membership. Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism is great too!

  • Sarah June 15, 2010, 3:25 pm

    I’m in! Perfect for my busy summer schedule. Can’t wait to see the plan you come up with.

  • runnerforever June 15, 2010, 3:26 pm

    Speed is so crucial in any race, even marathons can come down to a kick. Have fun with it!

  • Amber K @ sparkpeople June 15, 2010, 3:29 pm

    I ran for 10 minutes straight yesterday! My longest run EVER! I never thought I would get past two minutes! I actually wasn’t even planning on doing it, I just had so much on my mind and at 9 minutes I looked down and realized how far I had gone.

    If only I could do that every time! One day, I’d love to run a 5k!

    • Caitlin June 15, 2010, 3:32 pm

      AMAZING AMBER! I’m so proud of you!!!

    • brittany June 15, 2010, 7:15 pm

      You should try the couch to 5k program!

      • Amber K @ sparkpeople June 15, 2010, 11:54 pm

        I started to, but I tend to do whatever exercise strikes my fancy in the moment and running is usually LAST on the list. Which made it hard to stick to. But I truly do want to have the ability to run! It feels great after I’m done!!

  • Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine June 15, 2010, 3:30 pm

    This sounds like a great idea!! Good luck training for the 5k- I might actually join you on that one, I need something to keep me busy before I start training for my half in the fall!

  • Kara June 15, 2010, 3:46 pm

    Sounds like a good plan. I would love to run that fast. My 5k is about 30 mins. Right now I dealing with a pelvis/hip injury otherwise I would join you.

    Have fun!

  • Holly June 15, 2010, 3:55 pm

    Ohhh.. I’ve been wanting to try the NMTZ dvd. But, Jillian scares me! Her 30 Day Shred workouts kill me! I couldn’t imagine going longer…but I think I’ll give it a try!

  • Amanda June 15, 2010, 3:57 pm

    That DVD is definitely a good one. I like to throw it into my workout routine once or twice a week to add some strength training because I am horrible about it on my own (also do yoga, which I count as strength). Can’t wait to hear what you think!

  • Sally June 15, 2010, 3:59 pm

    Great idea Caitlin. I have this DVD (still shrink wrapped -ooops) and your challenge is exactly what I need to get my butt in gear.
    Thanks!!!

  • Megan @ The Daily Sweat June 15, 2010, 3:59 pm

    I’m with you on speeding up my 5K – this is gonna be a fun goal to reach! I usually run a 5K in 31-32 minutes. I’d love to get that down to 30 minutes or maybe even sub-30!

  • Jessica June 15, 2010, 4:03 pm

    I will SO be following you and doing this! I am kind of training for a 5K and I did NMTZ for the very first time about a week or so. I loved the dvd! It had me pouring sweat! Look forward to hearing what you think!

  • Andrea June 15, 2010, 4:09 pm

    Oooh… I’m curious to see how the No More Trouble Zones goes. I have the dvd and have yet to get through the complete workout. I wimp out at the abs section.

  • Jessica June 15, 2010, 4:15 pm

    I’m with you on the speedy 5K! My PR is 21:54, and I think I can get it down to a sub 21 by the end of the summer (or even 21:44, anything that would give me that 6:xx pace!). I can’t stand doing workout videos over and over again, but I’ll be doing my own heavy lifting and yoga along with some killer mileage!

  • Helen June 15, 2010, 4:18 pm

    What a great challenge. The dvd looks really good and I’m sure you’ll love the different challenge. Also, a sub 23 min 5k is fabulous!

  • Lauren (Clean Eats in the Dirty South) June 15, 2010, 4:23 pm

    dude i’ll totally join you in the 5k challenge!!! 🙂 great goal, caitlin.

  • The Linz @ Destination 26.2 June 15, 2010, 4:24 pm

    Good luck on your new fitness challenge! I am the same way where I need a good fitness goal to keep me focused on my workout routines. I am excited to hear how this NMTZ works for you!

  • Nobel4Lit (A Case of the Runs) June 15, 2010, 4:24 pm

    Sounds good… I’ve got some new challenges for myself as well. I’ll check out those yoga downloads, though!

  • kalli@fitandfortysomething June 15, 2010, 4:24 pm

    this is a great plan with all your moving and changes going on-so smart! i would join you but i do not have the video 🙁

  • Mindy @ just a one girl revolution. June 15, 2010, 4:24 pm

    I think I’ll join in on the speed…I’ve been wanting something to get my motivation back up for running!

  • Michelle @ Give Me the Almond Butter June 15, 2010, 4:25 pm

    That is an awesome fitness challenge! I’m hoping to try insanity this summer! We will see how it goes 🙂

  • Kristina June 15, 2010, 4:30 pm

    um… OKAY !!! I read this earlier today, then left. … and thought about it. I’m just getting back into running, have some endurance to make up, LOVE Jillian, and need some encouragement + support.

    This is my third time back to this post. I wanna do it. 🙂 Sign me up, I’ll be looking forward to the training schedule… and I’ll get the DVD asap…

    *whew*

    • Caitlin June 15, 2010, 4:33 pm

      heheh glad i sucked you in!

  • Amanda @ Eat to Live, Live to Run June 15, 2010, 4:36 pm

    I actually did NMTZ this morning after my 3 mile run. I’m trying to incorporate strength training into my training plan atleast twice a week. I need more variety than 1 video though. I tend to alternate between NMTZ, 30 Day Shred, and my various FIRM DVDs. I bought P90X off of eBay yesterday as a matter of fact, got a great deal on it. New and unopened with free shipping for $85, not bad 🙂 I just laid out my new training plan on my blog yesterday, its nice to get back to structure. I’m going for an awesome Half Marathon in October. Hoping to PR! Good luck with your new challenge! Can’t wait to hear how you like the DVD, there are a couple of the moves that are nearly impossible for me. Enjoy those surrenders!

  • Tracy June 15, 2010, 4:37 pm

    I LOVE that workout dvd!!! I’ve been using it every Tuesday (so tonight is my night) for about the past 6 weeks and I’m super sore every time. Love it!!!

  • Nancy June 15, 2010, 4:41 pm

    No More Trouble Zones is a great DVD workout. I was really impressed with it. Good luck on the new challenge!

  • Colleen June 15, 2010, 4:45 pm

    BTW – if you want a cardio based workout, Master your Metabolism is good too! You probably won’t need it right now with your running challenge going on, but maybe afterwards. It’s so stinking hot here, DVDs are the only thing keeping my sanity…paired with long walks after 7pm.

  • Christa June 15, 2010, 5:11 pm

    I am SO in on this challenge! My running has been horrible the past few weeks and I need to get into a routine badly to improve speed/endurance. I run a 31/32 minute 5K currently, and would love to see it sub 30 🙂

    I’m going to do the ChaLean workouts instead of the NMTZ, as I just got them in the mail last week and should put them to good use! (my hubby should be so proud I said that, hahaha)

    I’m excited to gain more info on how to increase speed and look forward to the support from everyone along the way!

  • Kelly June 15, 2010, 5:12 pm

    I actually have that DVD checked out from the library right now. I get to keep it for 3 weeks and can renew it if no one else wants it:). I have really enjoyed doing it. I’ve only done it twice b/c the first time I did the No More Trouble Zones DVD, I was seriously sore for about 3-4 days…whew, Jillian works you out hard!! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!!

  • Kelly @ Healthy Living With Kelly June 15, 2010, 5:12 pm

    Goodluck with your goals!

  • Michelle June 15, 2010, 5:19 pm

    I’m excited to see your speed plan! I’m hoping to lower my time this summer as well! Good luck!

  • Tina June 15, 2010, 5:26 pm

    Sounds exciting! I look forward to doing challenges like that in another 8 months or so. Hard to do challenges when pregnant after all, so I will just live vicariously through bloggers like you. 🙂

  • claire June 15, 2010, 5:28 pm

    sounds like a lot of fun lady! I have 30 day shred but don’t want to get the other right now…I like training for speedy 5K’s though since that is what I did in college!

  • Kath June 15, 2010, 5:34 pm

    I def. want to work on my 5K time!! Maybe we can sprint together?

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin June 15, 2010, 5:48 pm

    I love that you always make fitness into a challenge for you instead of just sticking to the same boring routines. Good luck with your new goals! 😀

  • Theresa June 15, 2010, 5:52 pm

    I am in! I already have that video and I LOVE it…burns so good! And I really want to work on my speed as well. I just starting running and did my first 10K and half marathon this year, with just under a 10min mile pace. I would love to speed it up! Plus, I just bought tickets to Italy in August and I want to tone up for all the extra gelato and pasta calories I will be consuming! 🙂

  • Lisa (bakebikeblog) June 15, 2010, 6:14 pm

    What a great challenge! I love that you chose something that you can do while travelling etc 🙂

  • Little Bookworm June 15, 2010, 6:18 pm

    Good luck with your new fitness challenge! Your lunch looks amazing by the way. Never thought of eating raw broccoli.

  • Jen June 15, 2010, 6:23 pm

    Hey Caitlin – I love your new goals! I can’t wait to read about them every day. You’re a very smart woman because you recognize that you need goals to keep yourself motivated. A lot of people don’t get that. Anyway…word of advice for speed. Hills are the key. But I’m talking getting on the treadmill and running with the steepest incline that you can handle. Those kind of “hills”. I run at 6-7% incline at 6.o mph (10 min/mile) for about 30 minutes. Of course…keep your knee in mind but I guarantee that your speed will improve if you do hills. And, it’ll be a QUICK improvement! Hope this helps!

  • Hil June 15, 2010, 6:29 pm

    I’m using Jillian’s 30 Day Shred right now whenever I don’t have time to actually go the gym (which is usually.) I love it so far–can’t wait to hear what you think of NMTZ.

  • Sarah June 15, 2010, 6:53 pm

    Ooh, very intriguing! I’m still rehabbing my knee right now to be able to train for speed, but I would love to do the DVDs with you! Did you order it from amazon?

  • Chelsey June 15, 2010, 7:05 pm

    Wow! Sounds like a great challenge! I would join you, but I might be beginning training for my next half marathon soon. As long as my wedding goes as planned 🙂 I should be doing the Chicago Half in September!

    Btw, I am a long time reader, but new blogger. I finally decided to join in on the fun!

  • Amy June 15, 2010, 7:06 pm

    I’m totally joining you! I have a garmin now and have been running a lot more consistently so I’d love to work on improving my speed for a 5K (especially since racing season has begun here in Massachusetts). I struggle with strength training and own the NMTZ dvd so I’m in! 🙂

  • Melodie June 15, 2010, 7:15 pm

    Ok, I am in on this one! I have only been reading your blog for a couple of months now, and have loved every post! I have been running 5k about 3 times a week for a few months now and my knees are starting to bother me a bit…. seem to be achier than usual? Not sure if that is the correct spelling for achier! Anyway, I have NMTZ and it is so hard! But, I was actually thinking this morning that maybe my knees/ leg muscles need more strength, and I was thinking about doing this a few times a week 🙂
    I may only use the DVD 3 times instead of 4… I remember the first time I did it I had to use the handicapped bathroom at work because I couldn’t get up if I sat on the lower toilet! hahaha 😉

  • maxinthegym June 15, 2010, 7:46 pm

    Hmmm I’ve never been one for workout DVDs. I only own yoga and pilates DVDs but this one sounds really interesting and I love Jillian Michaels. Please write a couple reviews on NMTZ!

  • Megan @ Eat.Scrap.Run June 15, 2010, 7:50 pm

    One of my goals right now is to improve my 5k time, so I am in! I am glad you found workouts that you can do even while moving. It’s so much better to have a goal to work towards.

  • Jayce June 15, 2010, 7:51 pm

    Yes! I will def join you. I’ve really been lazy about speedwork lately and need motivation to push harder.

  • Emily Eats Clean June 15, 2010, 7:55 pm

    Look forward to reading about your challenge success!

  • Hannah June 15, 2010, 7:57 pm

    I’d love to take part in the challenge also! I’ve been in the same situation as you. I’m very busy with three jobs this summer and I recently completed my first half marathon. Now that I’m not training anymore, I feel so lost with my workouts! It will be great to have something to work towards. Not to mention my speed definitely needs a boost!

  • Jessica June 15, 2010, 8:45 pm

    I’m doing the couch to 5k program already, so I could definitely join you in the running challenge (I’d like to run a 5k in under 30 min). I like 30 DS, so I’m thinking about ordering the NMTZ dvd…

  • Runeatrepeat June 15, 2010, 8:47 pm

    I actually have NMTZ, but haven’t really used it yet – and I need to get faster (I just wrote “fatter” Boo). Anyways, I’m in!

  • Kelly June 15, 2010, 8:57 pm

    I’m sort of entering a similar challenge. I am also trying to break my 5k PR and I will begin Jillian’s Yoga Meltdown once it arrives in an Amazon box.

    I’ve never been able to stick with a weight training program, so power yoga DVDs are much better options for me.

  • Stacey@http://stacey-healthylife.blogspot.com/ June 15, 2010, 9:09 pm

    I love ChaLeans video’s, it;s super challenging and I also love insanity for the same reason.

    But anything Jillian Michaels does rocks.

  • emptynutjar June 15, 2010, 9:48 pm

    God, I long for exercise.
    You don’t understand how much I admire you …yourself, your eating and your exercise.
    Its so tough to have a positive perspective on food (and carbs) when I can’t exercise…so freaked up and I KNOW the difference…anyway, rambling.

  • Jen June 15, 2010, 9:55 pm

    I think this is the exact challenge that I need right now. Our lives are a little hectic right now and I’m ready to get focused again and would love to work on some speed too. I just completed my first half-marathon at the end of May, now I’d like to run faster. I’m happy to follow along with you, can’t wait for the training plan!

  • Kim June 15, 2010, 10:10 pm

    Hi Caitlin! I’m a long-time reader and newbie commenter and blogger :). Anyhow, I’d love to partake in your challenge! I’m going to start training for a speedy 10k on July 31, and will aim to do the 30 Shred 4 times a week (and NMTZ, once it arrives in my mailbox).

    Thanks for the motivation!

  • Becky June 15, 2010, 10:15 pm

    Hi Caitlin! Just want to say I’m excited to follow your new personal challenge. I’ve been trying new ways to challenge myself recently (first time trying spinning, yoga, and getting back into swimming and lifting). I recently just wrote my own post on how I recently reached my own “healthy tipping point” and I just wanted to say thanks for the inspiration!

  • Mary June 15, 2010, 10:21 pm

    I’d LOVE to participate in the speedy 5k challenge! I just started Chicago Marathon Training though so I dont know how well it’d mesh. i think I need to take one challenge at a time.

  • Ash Bear June 15, 2010, 11:08 pm

    I’d love to join the speedy 5k challenge and POSSIBLY the no more trouble zones!! 🙂 I’ll keep a section on my blog for it as well!

  • Wei-Wei June 15, 2010, 11:24 pm

    That’s an awesome challenge! I’m looking forward to reading your amazingly quick 5k times 😀 Good luck! I’m cheering for you (I would join in, except… I don’t run, plus I’m doing the 30 day shred at the moment :D)

    Wei-Wei

  • KatieTX June 16, 2010, 12:12 am

    I should do some speed work for my sprint triathlons coming up. I need them short and sweet as it is hot! Adding track work is a great idea! I ran a sub 25min 5k in February and felt so awesome after. I am sure you can do sub 23! Hopefully Charlotte won’t be as hot as Orlando!!

  • Sarah (GF vegan) June 16, 2010, 2:16 am

    Awesome challenge! I’d love to join you but am only just beginning my running career again- can just about make 20 mins of running without walking 😛 I really fancy a fitness challenge though. What would you recommend? I already practice yoga a few times a week but that’s about it. Need to get my cardio on 🙂

    • Caitlin June 16, 2010, 8:50 am

      20 minutes is great!! i would recommend the couch to 5K plan. you’re prob already halfway through but it would get you running 3.1 straight by the end.

  • Kelly June 17, 2010, 4:33 pm

    I have that video and like it a lot! Can’t wait to see how you incorporate it with running. Maybe it’ll be my fitness goal for my last 30 days before my wedding too!

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