Bring the Pain

            Despite the sub-arctic temperatures this morning, I ventured to the gym to tackle a workout I came across last night on youtube. It combines the battle ropes as well as kettlebells in a series of work/rest sets. I was up for the challenge despite my plans to start P90X today.

            I started with an extended warmup because I was frozen solid by the time I got to the gym. Then it was time to bring some real pain. I set up the battle ropes and grabbed the 30 pound kettle bell. I set my stop watch for 30 second intervals of work followed by 30 seconds of rest. I won’t lie, midway through the routine I took a couple minutes to gather my energy as well as my breath. Here’s what my workout looked like.

Warmup 15 mins on the bike

30 seconds work/30seconds rest

Battle Rope - Alternating small waves

Kettle Bell – Around the body

Battle Rope – Alternating large waves

Kettle Bell – Two handed swing

Battle Rope – Double slam

Kettle Bell – Right handed swing

Battle Rope – Double slam side to side

Kettle Bell – Left handed swing

Battle rope – Sideways chest waves

Kettle bell – Right hand clean and press

Battle rope – Sideways chest waves

Kettle bell – Left hand clean and press

Cool down 10 mins on the bike

            After all of that I was spent. It really taxed my cardiovascular system as well as more muscles than I care to write about. I left the gym feeling great and started preparing myself mentally for P90X.

            I had breakfast when I got home and gave my body some time to relax before popping in the first DVD. I’m going with the classic P90X for my first time around. Day 1 was the chest and back DVD as well as ab ripper X. All I can say is holy crap!!! I can see right now that this is going to be a tough 90 days but I’m sure the results will speak for themselves.

I really don’t think anyone just starting a workout program should attempt this system. It is very intense and is surely over a beginners head. I had to make some modifications but managed to get through both workouts for the most part. I was drenched by the end of it. It was one incredible workout and I found it quite motivating. One day down… eighty-nine to go…. BRING THE PAIN!!!

Mike