What are the goals of this program? * Increase overall lean muscle mass
* Get lean and burn fat
* Build core strength
* Improve posture
* Improve mental clarity and focus
What do I need to participate? * You need a gym membership with standard workout equipment or a well-equipped home gym.
* A positive attitude and consistency!
Who are these workouts for (skill-level)? * The workouts are designed for all levels; modifications and substitutions for the bigger lifts are included in the exercise description.
What if I can't yet do a barbell back squat or a deadlift or a barbell bench press? * No worries at all! I have written a list of substitutions in the exercise description on all of these bigger compound lifts. Start where your ability allows you.
* Strength Training: five times per week
* Cardio: five times a week
* Active Rest: You should remain active when you rest from lifting. Go for a hike, bike ride, yoga class, or simply a long walk
I don't see how much cardio to do? How much cardio should I do? That's right! I haven't included detailed cardio instructions because this is very individual based on your daily time, job requirements, and overall activity level.
For example, a 45-year-old nurse walking 20,000 steps a day might not need to do any cardio at all to complete her fat-loss phase; however, a 55-year-old bookkeeper who sits most of the day may need to dig in harder to cardio to help her create a caloric deficit.
Please listen to/watch the “Cardio” module in the Strength Training 101 education series included in the app with your subscription.
In that video, I state that I start all my 1:1 clients at a mere 15 minutes of cardio a day at a Heart Rate target of 70-75% of their max while in a fat-loss phase.
I bump cardio up by ONLY 5 minutes at a time. Never more than that and ONLY when weight loss progress stalls.
Again, please refer to the video for more of an explanation regarding cardio. Please be smart about it, friends. This work is a marathon, not a sprint.
Ok, understood re: cardio...but when should I do my cardio to give myself the best results? My answer is very scientific and specific.....
Whenever you will do it consistently!! :)
Seriously. Nothing trumps consistency when it comes to cardio.
Yes, if you are an advanced lifter going for massive strength goals, doing your cardio right before a 5 x 5 leg day probably isn't the best idea because you'll burn your legs out before your lifts, but for lifestyle clients (this is most likely YOU!), absolutely NOTHING beats consistency.
So find a time of day when you can do your cardio without negotiating with yourself, and just get it done. 👊
Are there any modifications for the exercises? * Yes! I’ve included modifications in the descriptions for each exercise. If you need further assistance modifying any workouts, send me a message in the app and I’ll be happy to help!
How will I get the best results? * Get proper sleep (7-9 hours a night is a must)
* Follow consistently a dedicated nutrition regimen that consists of wholesome, natural foods > Please see the Macros 101 education course for guidance!
* Make sure you apply the Progressive Overload principle > Please see the Strength Training 101 education course for guidance!
* Drink 2 to 4 L of water daily.
* Make sure to use your active rest days to allow muscles to recover
* Get really serious about throwing any limiting beliefs in the garbage. This is a journey of self-discovery, so allow yourself to be a work in progress!
How can I ask you questions? Message me in the app for any questions you have. I do my best to review all comments and make any recommended changes.
I want to see your progress!
I would also love to see your progress pictures and videos. Tag me on Instagram and use the hashtag #BeyondBeforeAndAfter OR #ConsistencyJoyDiscipline or feel free to shoot me a DM on IG. I would love to showcase your progress to our community!