Workout # 5 - remember the treadmill is not yoga!!

[Topaz McKenna]

Workout # 2 - legs are smashed!

Well I had the pleasure of seeing my personal trainer again today. Forgot how much I miss her. She's an amazing woman and definitely an inspiration. When I grow up maybe I can be like her Also forgot how much I love working out...this year has been pretty tough for me both mentally and financially so it's nice to be able to get back into the swing of things. Today we did legs...my abs and upper body are pretty sore from yesterday, but my legs are going to be brutal tomorrow!

It'll be nice to get back to the shape I was when I left Sydney 2 years ago (though hard work will be on its way for that!). Back in the day I could leg press 220kg...not so much now, but slowly slowly I'll build it up...also considering I haven't done weights in over 6 months! I did plenty of squats and lunges, leg press, dead lifts, leg curls and calf raises. I didn't look too closely but I think the stationary lunges and squats finished at 30kg Though I suppose for my first session that's not too bad. And the leg press was 40kg for the final 2 sets...that'll have to change quick smart!! Hopefully my strength will come back quickly. But regardless of that I enjoyed getting back into the gym with my trainer and especially weights again. I like to go pretty heavy when I'm in shape...more of a fan of less reps with high weights...though many people prefer the less weight with high reps. Personal preference and goals I guess

Anyway...thanks for letting me blather on!!

xoxo
Topaz

 

[HappyPirate]

Re: Workout # 2 - legs are smashed!

Ahoy;- well done and Keep on going;--------now girl I have barrels of Rum that needs lifting, do not fear the lads will help, Yeee may need to crack the whip and keep the lads to their task, a strong women I seek with a whip by her side!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! all the best in your training I am sure Yeeeeee will be successful.
Arrrrrrr training time for me;----- bend the elbow, raise the glass;---- Cheers lads and Pass the Rum

 

[Sherry]

Re: Workout # 2 - legs are smashed!

Haha I like your work out regime happypirate!! Not so keen on yours Topaz-ouch that sounds like a lot of pain! But no pain no gain right?
Good for you-you'll have us all envious in no time-and hopefully inspired to get to the gym also! xx

 

[DDxoxo]

Re: Workout # 2 - legs are smashed!

Topaz
Just reading your post made me so tired,
I had to immediately get myself a tall glass of cold CHAI latte & some healthy soya chips
Lie down on my Day bed & stretch for my TV control & watched the last eposide of ARROW I downloaded!!
AHHHH resting is good!

Sincerely though, it is good you are back at the gym.

Happily I am thrilled doing my GYM sessions 20mins SPEEDFIT twice a week = 6 hours yours!​

 

[Topaz McKenna]

Re: Workout # 2 - legs are smashed!

Lol! You're chai, soya chips and Arrow sounds awesome By the way is that show any good? I kept wanting to watch it but I missed so much now I'll have to buy it on DVD when it comes out...alas I don't download because I have one of those prepaid wireless broadband things that telstra charges through the nose for.

As for speedfit, I did check it out again when Natacha and Miss Kandy were doing it, and I liked the demo, but I really love my trainer and the way the full on workouts at the gym make me feel. Even if I do have to take my arse there for 6 hours instead of 20 minutes....and I'm super sore afterwards!! It's definitely interesting...I'll keep my eye out for Natacha's results in the next few months

 

[Topaz McKenna]

Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

So once again my arms, chest and back were put through the paces. Chest fly's hurt!! So does working your rear deltoids - I call that the torture machine. Used to be lat pulldown but I've come to respect that machine I reckon I'm going to be super sore tomorrow! Oh well...least its a good sore and lets me know I'm alive

As for my reward - I rented The Last Stand with the classic Arnie in it It started a little boring for me, but completely redeemed when I burst into laughter about half way/three quarters through it. I hope I don't ruin it for anyone, but I have a twisted sense of humour and the following scene I'll describe had me pausing the DVD to belly laugh on my couch.

Some bad guy gets shot in the back with a flare gun, and because he's wearing so much ammunition, it starts "shooting" from him before he goes and explodes. Gold!!! I'm twisted I know but, boy oh boy, if I'd been in the cinema I'd have been kicked out.

I have to say as much as I enjoyed the above scene it can't beat an episode of True Blood (season 5 I think) where Sam turns into a fly, then flies into the mouth of a vampire and shape shifts insider her mouth, and comes out naked, yelling and covered in blood. That had me in stitches for an hour!! I kept rewinding it. Still gives me a giggle when I think about it. Even if you're not a True Blood fan or watcher that scene is just hilarious. I was watching it with a bunch of girls and when I started laughing they all looked at me like I was crazy. I made them rewatch it, and I'm not sure if it was my hilarity or the actual scene but 5 of us were incoherent for ages. Ahhh dear. Laughing is awesome We should all do it more often.

That's me for today. Think it's time to go back to bed!

xoxo
Topaz

 

[Dallas]

Re: Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

Nothing like a good workout, I have a heap of gym equipment set up in my garage but it's up for sale now so it's back to a regular gym for me! Yes lat pulldown - give you great definition around your back and shoulders - well I think so!

Glad to see your a Trueblood fan, did you know that season 6 has just started? I remember the fly episode, was funny, in fact the whole series has had some hilarious moments! - great show, has a bit of everything!

 

[Rochelle]

Re: Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

WOW girl.......you are certainly on a roll. I have workout #2 coming up tomorrow morning and I am actually looking forward to it. This time the full 20min but only strength........Believe me.......I will have your post on my mind while working out....buzzed from top to toe.
Ahhhhh and the sore muscles two days later. Definitely something to look forward too.


R.xxxxxxxx

 

[honestman]

Re: Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

invest on some basic BCAAs, fish oils, MSM/Glucosamines & lots of Zzzzzz...you'll be fine .

 

[Topaz McKenna]

Re: Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

Got the glucosamine, and fish oil At the risk of sounding like a retard...BCAA?

 

[honestman]

Re: Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

Got the glucosamine, and fish oil At the risk of sounding like a retard...BCAA?

Buona sera signorina,

My apologies for the late reply. Just literally got back from yet another lonesome training day at the gym (where the good looking ladies never spare a thought on us lesser beings ).

Now then, onward to a little bit of science .

--

Part 1/4 What Is Protein?
Protein : n. Greek which stands for "of prime importance".

What are amino acids? - the simplest definition to these are the END CHEMICAL RESULTS or END-PRODUCT of consuming Protein.. In other words, Protein is what we see on our breakfasts, lunches, dinners. And Amino Acids, is the end result of your body converting what's on the plate into good use .

So how do we get them? Whether it be through your diet, or via the help of supplementation, whether it be amino acid supplementations, Whey Proteins (more on that later), BCAAs, etc.


Part 2/4 General Categories of Amino Acids

Amino acids generally goes in different individual names/compounds, but a single amino acid can be either into three groups:

Essential Amino Acids (EAAs): These are amino acids in which all human bodies MUST replenish via supplementation or correct diet. Because why? we cannot manufacture them on our own system.

Non-Essential Amino Acids (NEAAs): These are amino acids in which conditionally speaking, may not be vitally important to sustain life. In this case, the human body should by all means be able to manufacture them without additional supplementation.

And finally, we have BCAAs : which is generally a shortened term for Branch-Chained Amino Acids.


BCAAs are strictly speaking - are scientifically and nutritiously considered to be the most important and abundant in all developed cells and fibers of human muscles. BCAAs is generally a shortened term for Branch-Chained Amino Acids - they are meant to be termed and identified as Branch Chained because simply these are STRICTLY - NATURALLY Synergistically occuring group in which for them to exist effectively, they must be formed together as a group. These three amino acids within BCAAs are:

1. L-Leucine.
2. L-Valine.
3. L-Isoleucine.



Part 3/4 BCAAs' Benefits

BCAAs are one of the most often sought after form of amino acids, because after all scientifically speaking - they simply exist on your existing muscles. The more you trigger and exert hard work on your muscles, the more the body demands these amino acids, IN ADDITION to your other nutritional profile intake such as carboydrates, fats and cholesterol.

So what effects you will expect to see from maintaining more BCAAs? Greater muscle endurance to exhaustive failure scenario. Greater chances for muscular recovery between tears, damages and general exertion. Simply as recovery. Simply as maintenance.

Keep in mind also the body has its' own brain. If it detects even the most slightly imbalance of things whether it be for physical or even physiological function - it will draw nutrients from elsewhere, anywhere where there are existing reservoir of energy. And that includes your amino acids, and off your existing reservoir of BCAAs. The body would at times, STEAL any EXISTING nutrients, amino acids, in this case, to form other things to sustain life.

So what do we get when we are constantly exchanging one form of nutrient to another form to satisfy the body's other need/s? You will sacrifice something of course . And yes exactly you guess it right - You'll draw muscle energy on other things the body think it needs. Mother nature is simply unbelievably fascinating.


Part 4/4 Where do we go from here / solutions

So how do we increase or maintain this intake of BCAAs? You have two solutions. Slower (which is natural) or Assisted (by means of supplementations).

Slower or natural methods would be to simply consume more Protein into your diet. Simple as that. But it comes as a trade off, it takes time. And it takes numerous factors of one's digestibility profile, such as genetics, metabolic profile, etc.

Assisted is simply by ways of supplementing by purchasing supplementations . BCAAs can come and marketed in flavoured or unflavoured powders in which you can mix in tall glass of water. They can also come in capsules. Most importantly - BCAAs are often most highly desired to be taken before workouts and after workouts to encourage further recovery, and simply also on non training days to maintain your good intake profile.

So where can we find these products? Simply at health stores, and yes, you may feel awkward to go to your nearest Muscle Worx stores (my ex-client in my part time graphic design freelancing business). As upon walking in you will be constantly bombarded with testoterone infested atmosphere.

BUT, look past it my friend - do not ever feel awkward of embarrassed to ask questions. After all, the public has produced TOO MUCH negative belief so much of in terms of negative stigma against sport supplement industry in which they feel only the brightest and best genetic profiles would seem to be the only right base of customers. That is far off from the truth.

Because after all - you go to the gym for simply one thing and one thing only. To look good. To feel good. And to be admirable around those who see you. But of all, you go to make a difference, whether it be physical or psychological.

And to make a start is simply to be informed.


--

Hope the above helps . Yes. I did write all the above just straight from general knowledge, 5 yrs so far in this personal regime. If you see me in the gym you would swear that you wouldn't ever see or think of another "skinny" dude in the gym the same way ever again . Or perhaps, ever wondering why he never gets approached by any singular female human being ever (more on that later ). Take care and rest well !

 

[Topaz McKenna]

Re: Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

Thanks so much for the information It's very much appreciated.
I've tried alot of different protein powders etc but bleh!! Cannot stomach them...first the smell makes me nauseous then the taste makes me want to throw it all back up. Yugh! But I don't seem to have the same problem with the premade stuff...so I've taken to drinking those when I'm in need of additional protein...most of them taste okay...and if not great they don't make me want to hurl!!

As for never being approached in a gym...join the club babe I look horrendous when I work out, and to be honest the last thing on my mind is conversation with anyone else, unless it's my PT. I will admit to occasionally looking at the "cute" guys or the body builder types...but that's it. A brief look and onwards I go. But maybe that's just me. I don't see the gym as a place I want to pick up...I'm usually pretty focussed on one thing. Also I'm usually there before work and after I've just woken up, so bed hair and a dazed look does not a pick up make And believe me...some girls like skinny...so although you may not have been approached, I'm sure you've been surreptitiously checked out

xoxo
Topaz

 

[SashaFabulous]

Re: Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

Whey protien and colostrum!

 

[Topaz McKenna]

Workout # 4 - Ouchie!!

Well I've now completed workout 4 with my personal trainer. I told her one of my goals...and I'm not sure it was a good idea. My ass is now killing me!! Or rather my glutes...and that's not even with DOMS. Oh boy am I going to be sore. Back before I moved to Perth and was 5 years and 10kg younger (ahh the joys of your early 20's - not that I'm old now!!) I used to be able to leg press (inclined) 220kg. Obviously I can't do that now, but I told her I'd like to get back to that stage. So today I pressed 110kg with 12 reps. Go me!!! I'm quite impressed with myself...considering it's only week 2 of me getting back into the gym. I have legs and thighs of steel All you gents out there should come and enjoy them...or should that be cum I promise I'm not going to squeeze you like the James Bond character in Goldeneye....well...only if you want me to

Anyway...just thought I'd share today's achievement. Even though I've not had much sleep it's been a really good day. I'm super excited for work tonight...I think it'll be a good one, if only because I'm in a damn good mood! I think this thread may sound a little similar to an earlier one...it's not deliberate, so if it is, my apologies.


xoxo
Topaz

 

[wr3xr]

Re: Workout # 2 - legs are smashed!

DOMS is such a great feeling isnt it? Sure, sometimes it hurts but then recovery times gets better and you know you'll soon see results.

Also, its very easy for some of us guys to tell the difference between girls who squat (correctly) and those who dont

 

[HappyPirate]

Re: Workout # 4 - Ouchie!!

Ahoy well done, keep up the training and Yes;- you can squeeze Meeeeee to death with you thighs, so keep up the good work.
Cheers and Pass the Rum

Well I've now completed workout 4 with my personal trainer. I told her one of my goals...and I'm not sure it was a good idea. My ass is now killing me!! Or rather my glutes...and that's not even with DOMS. Oh boy am I going to be sore. Back before I moved to Perth and was 5 years and 10kg younger (ahh the joys of your early 20's - not that I'm old now!!) I used to be able to leg press (inclined) 220kg. Obviously I can't do that now, but I told her I'd like to get back to that stage. So today I pressed 110kg with 12 reps. Go me!!! I'm quite impressed with myself...considering it's only week 2 of me getting back into the gym. I have legs and thighs of steel All you gents out there should come and enjoy them...or should that be cum I promise I'm not going to squeeze you like the James Bond character in Goldeneye....well...only if you want me to

Anyway...just thought I'd share today's achievement. Even though I've not had much sleep it's been a really good day. I'm super excited for work tonight...I think it'll be a good one, if only because I'm in a damn good mood! I think this thread may sound a little similar to an earlier one...it's not deliberate, so if it is, my apologies.


xoxo
Topaz

 

[honestman]

Re: Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

And believe me...some girls like skinny...so although you may not have been approached, I'm sure you've been surreptitiously checked out

xoxo
Topaz

"Surreptitiously"...I like it ! Perhaps they should make it more obvious. Yes, that scene with Onatopp (what a name) in Goldeneye can be quite disturbing .

 

[Topaz McKenna]

Re: Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

It's a good work isn't it!?
Nah...if they made it obvious and you didn't respond in the way they imagined, they'd feel right spastic. Just as I imagine you would!

 

[honestman]

Re: Workout # 3 - arm once again killed Rewarded with Arnie!

It's a good work isn't it!?
Nah...if they made it obvious and you didn't respond in the way they imagined, they'd feel right spastic. Just as I imagine you would!

Aaa yes, you are indeed correct. But at the end of the day; at least from what I've seen it (even though it only happens once every three or four months) - it's all about giving a sense of implied motivation .

Yes of course any lonesome "Jims" of the gym would easily be caught off guard in such "possible moment/s" - and sure she will be freaked out too - BUT at the end of the day walking back to the carpark - ANYONE would recall the event in their heads and make their own affirmations.

With mine it is simply this thought - "damn, what the hell happenned today? A 5"9 blonde bombshell was working out next to me. Next time - I'll work out even stronger!" .

Ladies may not notice these things but there is always something positive I can take out of any similar circumstances; no matter how awkward it is (well unless if one is major alpha-male psycho types who throws around the bells aimlessly - now that's spastic).

I would dare to say this to most male gym junkie that yes, whilst good looking ladies are a distraction - deep somewhere inside we need that motivation. I would say 9/10 times that if I simply happen to be in the presence of good looking women - I am able to throw that additional fourth set on the 60kg inclined bar bench . Sure, I may be little twitchy in the very instance of her approaching me but give it time, she will make my day. Once in every three to four months for a motivation boost throughout four training nights & days each week. Not bad I'd say.

After all even if the scenario went all spastic hey at least; a thought has been given out, and "it's the thought that counts" .

 

[Topaz McKenna]

Well once again I had a session with my PT. My arms are going to be ouchie tomorrow

However today I learnt a lesson I should have remembered long ago! DO NOT wear an unsupportive bra designed for bikram yoga to the gym when you have to do active cardio. Duh! Dumbass! In my wisdom I decided to wear a funky sports bra I quite like, that I usually only wear to yoga, to the gym today, forgetting there's no support. Well!! If the gym was busy I'm sure the guys wouldn't have minded, but I couldn't start learning to jog again on the treadmill, because even walking my damn boobs were bouncing all over the damn place! Not to mention my high beams later on doing weights because it was bloody freezing even whilst I was sweating away. Topaz thy name is idiot!!

xoxo
Topaz

 

[Madam Jacqui]

Well what a shame No one was there to watch,or they would have copped an eyeful. xxxxxxxxxx

 

[Contrarian]

Maybe even two eyefuls!