I'm enjoying Stage 2 of NROL4W even though it takes a bit more time to complete each workout than the workouts in Stage 1 did. I really enjoy the variety although for the first time, I got the sense that I would like to do more somehow. Be more serious with lifting. NROL4W is a great introduction to serious gym-style lifting but I'm keeping my eyes and ears open for the next step.
Currently, I'm in money-saving mode although I would like to purchase some fitness gear soon. I'm in need of new cross-trainers and running shoe. I've said before that I'm seriously considering buying a pair of Vibram Five-Fingers but I'm a little hesitant. I wish there were a way I could test drive them first. :) The Five-Fingers would be great because I could lift while wearing them and then go for a run without having to change footwear--anything that saves time is wonderful. But for indoor stuff at home, I'd either need another pair of Five-Fingers or a pair of cross-trainers (I don't wear outside shoes in the house).
I would also like a foam roller because it's a great recuperative tool for athletes. Someone on JP Fitness posted this:
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Another thing I'd like to invest in are some Iron Woody bands. Because I would like to be able to do a chin up by the end of the year, I know I have to do some focused work to get there. I found this interesting way to do assisted chin-ups using the Iron Woody bands. (I would probably do this at home though because I wouldn't want folks looking at me like I was crazy in the gym.) In the meanwhile, I do 2 sets of 10 inverted rows at the end of my workouts. I could do negative chin-ups but I will have to do those later on in the NROL4W program and also, I do not feel like I have the time to hunt around the gym for the one and only bench high enough. There's pull-up machine at the gym, yes, but everything I've read says that's a sub-par way to building up to pull-ups. Kind of like how doing push-ups on your knees is not the best way to build up to a regular push-up (wall push-ups or push ups on a bar are considered superior).
Anyway, this week I haven't been to the gym because the hubby is away. I'm looking forward to getting back there on Friday though. I did get a chance to do a BodyRock TV workout (Fat Fighter Workout) yesterday and it was lots of fun as usual. I totally love the idea of using nothing but your body to get a great workout.
I hate to be out of my rhythm but ce la vie sometimes.
