I had the opportunity to be a part of the first-ever 24 hour BattleFrog Extreme Race in Miami called the BFX24. It was amazing to be able see history being made and to run with, film and motivate the new breed of OCRX athletes as they conquered 5+ mile loops continuously for 24 hours. It was very inspiring!
Please feel free to check out the VIDEO that I created specifically for this event. If you would like to help me with my OCRTUBE.com, a cause-related media project, it's simple, just share the video to help raise awareness for causes like wounded warriors, youth sex victims around the world, as well as assuring that our planet stays healthy and fit for years to come. My media project is focused on helping the sport of obstacle racing grow while giving back globally via video sharing.
WHOA, I'm getting behind with this blogging thing =) The Hammer and Chisel Challenge has been amazing. I've never done this many LEG WORKOUTS in my lifetime =). Week 6, was a tough one for me not only because of all the traveling that I was doing, but also because of my infamous GOUT that seems to creep up on me after working out excessively. This is one challenge that I have been battling with the past year. My gout has been flaring a lot more lately, and I think it has to do with my age. Yes, I'm getting up there, which I am forced to watch out and not go at full intensity for a long period of time. It seems to happen moreso when I do intense workouts followed by a long run. Oh well, I'm dealing with it, watching my nutrition, and not letting it stop me from staying active and achieving my goals.
Here's my Week 6 Recap!
Day 1, Week 6
Today I did Master's Cardio workout on Playa Santo Domingo overlooking the Volcan Concepcion. It was amazing to go barefoot in the sand and just soak up the beauty of Ometepe Island in Nicaragua. Oh btw, I was in Nicaragua filming a race called the Fuego y Agua Survival Run.
Day 2, Week 6
So this is where I had to repeat week 6 =) I got so busy traveling and my gout started flaring and I didn't want to provoke it any worse than it was before filming the Survival Run race, so I ended up completing this week back in the USA. Today's workout was ISO Speed Hammer, I did this in place of Hammer Conditioning because somehow I read the schedule wrong. At any rate, I did work!
Day 3, Week 6
Chisel Cardio today. This workout is one of my all time favorites because it's not your typical cardio workout. There are weights involved. You are lifting weights and also using your body weight. I took it a little easy today just because I've been sore. Listening to your body is key. You never want to kill every workout, every day, because doing so can cause you to over-train, and that's where injury occurs.
It was REST DAY today, but I ended up killing a 5K trail run. Took it easy, and just soaked up some nice forest scenery. Trail running is a great outlet for me to think, I highly recommend it =)
Day 5, Week 6
Today's workout was Hammer Power. This workout is great build up workout to a lot of power lifts. I already knew the power lifts and ended up skipping the build up and went straight to the power lifting, but in order to make up for the lost reps during the build up, I just simply added more reps during the full cleans.
Day 6, Week 6
Chisel Balance was on the menu today. I actually did the best ever with this workout. If you've seen some of my recent Hammer and Chisel posts, I struggle with balance exercises, but this time I noticed some major improvement, so I was happy about that.
Day 7, Week 6
Today was Max Hammer Strength. This workouts consisted of doing a particular exercise movement for about 60 seconds, followed by a similar, but different movement with heavier weight at 8 reps. Lots of variety in this workout, but again, lots of LEGS =) I highly recommend using the worksheets to write down the weights that you use so that the next time you do the workout, the goal would be to either do more reps within the 60 seconds time frame, or use heavier weights for the 8 reps. At any rate, this is a great workout!
My apologies for not having a lot of photos or videos for this recap, but this week I was not feeling it, so I barely finished the workouts. I plan to repeat this week, along with combining some other workouts from week 5 to make up for my lost focus due to travel and my gout attack. As always, thanks for visiting my blog, and feel free to message me about my upcoming Hammer and Chisel Online Challenges, you will receive FREE Coaching from me =)
WHOA! Week 5 of my Hammer and Chisel Challenge is finally over ha ha! Here is how my week went.
Day 1, Week 5
So I had to repeat my 5th week because I literally killed my workouts a lot more than I should've and my gout unfortunately started to flare up. For those of you who know about GOUT, you definitely smell what I'm stepping in right? It hurts! I took advantage of some rest and recovery, and I also did a lot more stretching. Yes, I know, I need more yoga in my life =)
Today I did Total Body Chisel with 10 Minute Ab Chisel. I felt so good that I also did a 4+ mile run. It was a great start of the week!
Day 2, Week 4
Did Hammer Power plus 10 Minute Hammer Abs. So this is all pretty new to me as far as doing abs a few days in a row. I am so used to other programs such as P90X where you work certain muscle groups and allow ample rest in order for your muscles to recover and build. Well, that was classic P90X, I know X3 is a little similar to Hammer and Chisel where some of the workouts are full body workouts back to back, multiple days in a row. All I know is that with Hammer and Chisel, you are constantly killing the leg workouts! So if you are interested in this challenge, keep in mind that your legs are going to be really sore almost every day. But always remember to listen to your body, and take it easy on some days. I feel that the Beachbody Performance Recover drink helps with soreness and gets me ready for the next day.
Chisel Balance was on the menu for tonight! If you've read some of my previous workout posts, balance is something that I am not really good at. It's why I fail a bunch of balance obstacles at some of the obstacle races that I participate in. I constantly am working on this skill, and have gotten much better. It has a lot to do with having a strong core, which is another something that I am working on building back up.
I worked out in hiking pants tonight, so although it looks like it would be hot to workout in, it wasn't that bad, plus it was a little chilly outside, so it kinda made the house cooler than usual. Oh btw, I leave for Central America tomorrow, so I'll be extending my workout once I set foot in Nicaragua.
Day 4, Week 5
Oh it's REST DAY today, and I'll be leaving for Nicaragua this evening, so what else is there to do but drink my Shakeology! Oh, and you better believe that I am taking some of my superfoods nutrition with me when I leave the country for almost 2 weeks. I never leave home with it. If you're wondering what I'll be doing in Nicaragua, I'll be filming the Fuego y Agua Survival run, I'll post the video below.
Day 5, Week 5
I'm in CENTRAL AMERICA!! So when I travel, I don't always have access to a gym or ideal workout surroundings. But the best way to get over these challenges is to just work with what you have. You may not get the same intensity because of the lack of equipment, but it's a lot better than doing nothing.
Today's workout was ISO Speed Hammer, and I used everything from a couple adjoining bunk beds to my own Patagonia duffel bag. I even used my laptop case for the exercises that required less weight. Again, I may not achieved the same burn factor that I am normally used to, but it's all about "showing up" and not making excuses. But hey, I do have my bad days too, but that's why I have a personal success partner and an online accountability group to kick my ass when I start feeling lazy. If you don't have a support group like this, message me and you can be a part of mine! =)
Day 6, Week 5
It was a long day today. I was at San Jorge waiting on a ferry to take me to Ometepe Island (where the Fuego y Agua Survival Run will be). A neighboring boat capsized and the ferry service was delayed for about 6 hours, it royally sucked lol. But I had fun with some of the locals and had the opportunity to just appreciate the scenery. Nicaragua is an amazing place!
Taking my local friend out to lunch and enjoying the
scenery at San Jorge, Nicaragua
Day 7, Week 5
Today I woke up to an amazing traditional Nicaragua Breakfast. Soon after I rented a scooter to explore Ometepe Island. I did Total Body Hammer for today's workout. I didn't go hard at all and again had limited equipment. I used my Patagonia pack for most exercises that required dumbbells, and I did lat push ups to replace the pull ups, and again my laptop bag for the del flys. =) #WhateverItTakes
Btw, did I mention how beautiful Ometepe Island is? I have to really thank my Beachbody Business for allowing me the freedom to travel and live my passion. Working out in another part of the world and seeing so many amazing places is something that I never thought I would be able to do.
Here's the video that I filmed and edited. It was probably the TOUGHEST race I ever had to film. Hiking up Volcan Concepcion was a workout in itself, but the views made it all worth while. Enjoy the video, and I'll see you somewhere around the world!
Watch Video - Fuego y Agua Survival Run Nicaragua 2016
1. Living the Lifestyle - Most obstacle racing athletes that I've met have told me that they would love to race every weekend if they could. Athletes are everyday people like you and I who have families, full time jobs and for the most part, live healthy and active lifestyles. By taking the advantage of becoming a Beachbody Coach, these athletes can continue living their current lifestyles and create an extra stream of cash flow part-time. I have known many athletes who have started coaching on the side and have built full time online fitness empires. Imagine racing anytime you want, and getting your races and travel paid for with no sponsorships needed.
2. Extra Income for Races - Obstacle course races can be an expensive hobby. With registrations starting from $30 up to $200+ per race, this can take a toll on anyone, and this doesn't include travel. By choosing a Beachbody Coaching option that suits your existing lifestyle, athletes can earn income by helping others train for a race with online fitness challenges. Let's say you help 5 people begin an Online P90X challenge, the athlete can earn upwards to $350, now I don't know about you, but that is a few races taken care of right there just for helping others become more active.
3. Travel Expenses - Most athletes who fall into the OCR addiction tend to travel and participate in races outside of their local city. Transportation can range from airline tickets, buses, car rentals etc. If an athlete used their passion for helping people with the Beachbody Coaching model, they can earn a significant amount of spending cash to assist in travel expenses, and guess what? You may also be able to write off your travel as a business expense at the end of the year. Having a coaching business does have some tax benefits and can save you money, and who doesn't like to save?
4. Inspiration to Others - Most obstacle racing athletes that I know are pretty active with their workouts and nutrition, and by doing so, they tend to attract a lot of social media influence because people are inspired by others who live healthy lifestyles. With Beachbody Coaching, obstacle racing athletes can earn while doing something they love, being active.
5. Thinking Beyond OCR - I believe that obstacle course racing is here to stay. It's one of the fastest growing extreme sports today. But as much as we all love the sport, there are just some weekends where we need recovery or a vacation with the family. With the Beachbody Coaching Opportunity, and obstacle racing athlete can still earn income even if they are not racing or working out. When an athlete decides to build a full time Beachbody Coaching business, eventually the income derived from helping others can yield a 6/7 figure residual. So let's say that you happen to need a break from obstacle racing, or you just don't want to do it anymore, or maybe doctors orders says that you can't, your income from your consistent hard work building your Beachbody Business can help you pursue other hobbies, passions and activities or you can just travel the world.
Whatever you decide, the Beachbody Coaching Business is an option for you to use in helping you fund your passion and your future. If you would like to see what this business vehicle can do for you, then message me and I'll help you find the best coaching option for you.
See you at the next race!
Beachbody Coaching has fulfilled my OCR PASSION, it's your turn!
I love traveling and participating in races around the world - join me!
Volcano Hike up Concepcion - Ometepe Island, Nicaragua
I had the opportunity to film one of the TOUGHEST races on the planet, this race is called the Fuego Y Agua Survival Run which was remotely located in Ometepe Island in Nicaragua. It was probably the most challenging race that I've ever filmed with my OCRTUBE media project, but also one of the most beautiful places that I've ever been to. I have been working out with my Hammer and Chisel Challenge and felt that it really helped me with the long and technical volcano hikes carrying roughly about 30 lbs of equipment in my Patagonia backpack. It was definitely a great experience, and I'm sure that I will be back next year.
Killing my Hammer and Chisel Workout at my Guesthouse - Managua, Nicaragua
Hammer and Chisel - ISO Speed Hammer Workout
Feel free to check out the video that I created below, and I hope that some of you may get inspired to give it a shot next year. It will be a tough one, but you will learn more about yourself than ever before, and gain life-long memories with many friendships to be made.
Fuego Y Agua Survival Run - Nicaragua 2016
Online Beachbody Coaching helps fund my travel all over the world.
Become a Beachbody Coach and LIVE your passions, I'll show you how - Learn more here!
I have to give it up to Tony Horton (creator of P90X and 22 Minute Hard Corps) for helping me get my life back with health and fitness. It's not just about looking good for me (abs can only do much for you, but they look nice ha ha), it's also about testing my physical abilities, which is why I have a slight addiction to the sport of obstacle course racing, and other adrenaline junkie adventure sports. Plus, it helps me stay in peak physical condition during my travels around the world, which I don't see myself every retiring from =).
22 Minute Hard Corps is NOW AVAILABLE - Links below!
But, you guys don't want to hear about all that right ha ha, you just want to know how you can get in on this FREE Sneak Peek of Tony's new workout program, 22 Minute Hard Corps. So without further ado, here is how to check it out before you decide to take on the challenge.
FREE SNEAK PEEK:
- Available starting February 7th, 2016 (promo has ended - get the discounted challenge pack links below)
- Go to this link, CLICK HERE, and become a Club Member for 30 days FREE!
- During the Free Trial Offer, you will be able to try 22 Minute Hard Corps PLUS the full member library of Beachbody on Demand workouts, which is about $3,000+ worth of workouts including the full P90X library, Insanity, and many more including exclusive workouts not open to non-members (public).
- Again, CLICK HERE to take advantage of the FREE 22 Minute Hard Corps Sneak Peek Workout
*Note: If you are already a Team Beachbody Club Member, you will already have access to Beachbody on Demand Online Streaming, so you will have full access to the sneak peek.
OFFICIAL LAUNCH DATE of 22 Minute Hard Corps will be on MARCH 1ST.
(message me for online test group details and to take the challenge)
Yup, I used to think that Tony's jokes were pretty corny, but hey his workouts are
top notch, and they get the job done, so I figured he can tell all the corny jokes that he wants,
because I'm reaping the benefits =)
Do you have friends that may want to try this new workout? Feel free to send them this link.
I will be starting a 22 Minute Hard Corps Online Test Group soon! If you would like to participate and be among the first to try out this challenge, message me here!
Enjoy the journey, looking forward to your SUCCESS!
WAHOO, Week 4 of my Hammer and Chisel Challenge was a blast! I guess knowing that I am half way done with this challenge gets me even more EXCITED =) I can honestly say that this is definitely one of my top programs for sure. And one more thing before I recap my week, if you're thinking about doing this challenge (ask me about my upcoming online test groups) then be prepared to murder your legs, because LEG DAY is pretty much every day! =)
Day 1, Week 4
Today's workout was Chisel Balance and let me tell you this, I totally suck at balance! I know that I'm getting better, but this is something that I have to continue to do, or I will lose the skill almost immediately. Just like a lot of the H&C workouts, this one was a leg burner!
Chisel Balance - Up and Downs + Split Squat Jump
Day 2, Week 4
One thing to always remember, and something that I continue to remind my challengers is that you are not in competition with anyone but yourself. Just show up every day, and results will happen. Today's workout was Max Hammer Strength, and as you can see, I am working my dinky little calves!
Max Hammer Strength
Hammer and Chisel Review
Day 3, Week 4
Today's workout came late today because I spent all day with my family. I did Chisel Cardio and struggled with the Forearm Kicks. My flexibility has gotten better, but my hip flexors were burning! I may have to throw in some yoga workouts to help with more of these types of movements. Sleep is something that I lack and desperately need. I typically get about 5-6 hours per day, I would do better if I killed 8 hours a day =). Chisel Cardio - Dumbbell Swings
Day 4, Week 4
Today was supposed to be my REST DAY, but I'll be running the Disney Marathon this Sunday, so I decided to take my workouts all the way through, but also taking it easy so that I won't be over-trained for the marathon. I ended up doing ISO Speed Hammer and it was only 25 minutes! Pistol squats need improvement, but I know I'm getting better because my legs feel much stronger.
ISO Speed Hammer
Day 5, Week 4
I arrived in Orlando today in preparation for the Disney Marathon, checked into my Airbnb reservation and went to town on my workout which was Hammer Power and 10 Minute Hammer Abs.
Hammer Power
Day 6, Week 4
So today I simply took a rest day and attended an amazing Beachbody Super Saturday event at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress. I will be adding my missed Master's Cardio Workout to the end of my challenge date to ensure that I complete all the workouts for the challenge. Just a general rule of thumb that I use when I am doing a challenge: If you miss one workout, you add a day. If you miss two workouts, you can re-do the week, or simply add the missed workouts to the end of your challenge. Whatever works best for you =).
Day 7, Week 4 Disney Marathon Day =) Today I ran my very first marathon, you can check out my video below =) Hammer and Chisel resumes after my full recovery ha ha! All I can say is that I got my but kicked running 26.2 miles, but I embraced the challenge and plan to do more in the near future.