Day 18, Level 2

So, I haven’t been the best at sending in updates, but I promise you that I’ve been sticking with the program. My husband has been away, but I got to see him this past weekend, and to be honest with you, I didn’t Shred for those two days. But, to make up for it, I did it both morning AND night for the next two days. (Which seemed like a good idea at the time, but my body hated me later.)
I’m in the midst of a move, which makes it hectic to find time for everything, but giving myself those thirty minutes to exercise releases a large portion of my stress. I’d be a ball of nerves without this, and I plan on continuing it regularly (although perhaps not every single day) even once September is over.
I’m thinking that I have really found my comfort zone in Level 2. I’d be happy just switching between Levels 1 and 2. I think Level 3 is going to push me past my limits and be a struggle for me, but we’ll see soon enough. After watching the season premiere of The Biggest Loser this past Tuesday, I realized that Jillian could be much, MUCH meaner to us! She’s actually nice on the Shred compared to her throwing the f-bomb and yelling in the faces of all the contestants!
--Samantha at 3:37pm

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So, it's arthritis. Yup. In my knees and ankles. Lower impact, keep moving, Aleve, BenGay, more water. I apparently am not drinking enough to flush out the lactic acid building up around the joints. Not muscles. Joints. Ugh. I.am.officially.old.
But the dr. did stress how important it is to keep moving so the joints don't lock up. She said the pain will ease up a bit, although I will never be pain-free again unless I stop working out all together, which would be BAD.
So I did all those things today. I pushed my upper body to its limits by increasing the weight from the wimpy 3 pounds to the 5 pounds and kept moving through all the cardio. The high knees don't seem to bother me so I did those through most of the cardio sets.
Are we done with Level 2 yet? To me, it feels longer than Level 1!
--Jenn at 7:06am

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I'm not gonna lie - I stunk today. I just could NOT motivate myself to move. I felt like I had lead limbs. I think I must be getting bored with this level - even though I enjoy it. I'm hoping I can make it through the last few days of Level 2... Level 3 is right around the corner!! Keep it up Shredders!
--Sarah at 6:53am

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It should be illegal to be up this early and SWEATING!  Nonetheless, Day 18 is complete.  Even with a full-fledged headcold.  I felt like I was breathing through a straw, so I had to tone down the cardio portions of the workout today.  I'm getting bored with this Level 2 (although I really like it - especially circuit 2), so I am anxious to see what Level 3 has to offer on Monday.
And when you feel like taking a day off?  Or you rationalize that you don't have time?  Just remember:  IT'S ONLY 20 MINUTES.  You can do it.  You HAVE to do it.  Think of how you will feel after you've made yourself do it....Proud.  Capable.  Sweaty.  Strong.  And then string those feelings of empowerment together for 30 days in a row?  Wow! 
So keep up the good work, September Shredders!  After all, October is just around the bend...what will Sarah think up next?  Mwah ha ha ha
--Sarahviz at 5:53am