Hi everyone! What's new?
If you follow me on Facebook or Instagram you have seen that I have been doing Beachbody's newest program, PiYo, for the past week. I can not get over what an awesome program this is.
If you aren't familiar, PiYo is inspired by a blend of Pilates and yoga. But, unlike yoga, you aren't standing and holding poses for long extended periods of time. You are using dynamic, quicker movements, so your heart rate increases, but are getting all the benefits of Pilates and Yoga (like leaner muscles, strength training, and increased flexibility).
I have noticed, in just one week, that my posture is improving. I was beginning to hunch or arch my back a lot in the past couple of weeks as my lower back has been a little tight; pinched feeling. With PiYo, the stretching and fluid movements, my back pain is gone. It is such a relief. I also notice that the joints in my legs don't feel as tight. I know that my lower body was really feel the weight and shift of entering the third trimester but being able to focus on stretching and gaining more flexibility has been awesome.
Another aspect of PiYo is that it is low impact. I have to admit, my body was starting to get worn out. The higher impact workouts were becoming more difficult for me this far along in my pregnancy. I just felt like my heart rate would be getting to high and the weight lifting sometimes pulled on my muscles uncomfortably. I realize there are many pregnant women who can do high impact and weight lifting up until their due date. I am speaking strictly from my personal experience and what I felt my body telling me.
The low impact movements have really been helpful. And because they are done at a higher intensity (not just holding a pose) I still feel like I am working.
I loved Day 1. Chalene Johnson, the trainer, spent time going over some moves seen often in the program, proper form, and some terminology she would use. It was 40 minutes long. It was really basic but honestly, so beneficial.
Day 2 and 3 was when the work began. One was lower body focused; the other upper body focused. The workouts were pretty short and I worried if I would really get results in such a short workout. Let me tell you, the day after both workouts, I was S-O-R-E! It is amazing how using your own body weight can really work your muscles!!
Day 4 was Sweat. Ohmiword is aptly named! I was dripping you guys! Like shorts and a sports bra only, I was so hot! And mama doesn't rock a sports bra alone, especially at 8 months pregnant!! ;) This workout really got my heart rate up with a faster flow of movements that built upon each other and really worked my whole body!
Day 5 was a rest. Days 6 and 7 repeated the Lower and Upper Define workouts.
I can't wait to complete this program. It has modifiers for every move so even if you aren't as flexible you can follow along. I can see it being helpful for so many different people.
I am hosting a challenge group for those who want support, accountability, nutrition help and someone to answer their questions. We are beginning July 7th. If you are interested, feel free to message me with questions.
