I'm about to head off to my ear surgery. I weighed in at 113.4 lbs this morning, so hopefully I won't gain more than 5 lbs in the 4 weeks.
I had my last round of upper body weights and abdominal strength session Wednesday. Also, I did some running. Last night I went to the grocery store, and then I cooked a pot of cabbage and a huge pot of leek soup (but I added turkey roast to it so that it can be full meals for me). I also bought about 6-7 bag meals. So, I won't have to be cooking for quite a while.
I'm thirsty (no food or water after midnight), and I'm a tad nervous. At least I slept decently, though, last night.
Wish me luck. I'll let you (if anyone is actually reading this) know how it goes.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Trapeze Private Lesson - Level 2
I had my private trapeze lesson to start learning level 2 tricks last night. It started snowing, so the drive there and back wasn't all that great. But, it was well worth it. I did 12 new tricks!
I started out with stretching. My instructor said that now that I have my front splits, that I should try to do hyper-extended splits (putting a book or something under my front leg so that it stretches even more).
Then, we got right to the tricks!
1. Mermaid Under the Bar - this was a beautiful position. You have your 2 hands holding onto the bar. Then, you go into the split under the bar trick. From that, you twist your body so that one arm goes down the middle of your back. Your legs are one on each side of the arm and extend outward, parallel to the ground. So, you wind up looking like a mermaid. Your feet are together to make up the main fish part of the mermaid.
2. 1 Knee Roll-Up. This is a cool transition from underneath the bar to sitting. Again, you start from the split under the bar position. Then, you go into a 1 knee hang. You lock your free leg around the leg with the knee on the bar, and then you place your hands on the ropes so that the bar is in the crook of your elbows, with your arms extending up as high as you can, holding onto the ropes. Then, you unlock your free leg, swing it down to gain momentum. Then, you swing it up and around the bar. Your body remains tucked in a ball as much as possible. Also, you try to keep the bar at your knee rather than letting it slide down. You wind up on top of the bar. Then, you bring the free leg up and over so that you're fully sitting.
3. 2 Knee Roll-Up. This is just like the 1 knee roll-up except that both knees are on the bar when you roll up and around. It's harder in that you don't have the momentum from the swing like you do in the 1 knee roll up. But, it's easier in that it's easier to remain tucked. Also, it's easier to keep the bar in the position at your knees. Both are very cool transitions, though.
4. Forward Straddle Drop. This was extremely terrifying to try. However, once I did it, it actually was pretty easy. I just had to have faith in myself. Essentially, you sit on the trapeze bar, with your legs straddled wide in front of the bar. There's just enough room on the bar between your legs to grab on with both hands. You have to balance for a bit in this position until you go. Then, you fall forward, rolling over, and wind up hanging down from the bar by your 2 hands. The scary part is that it feels like you're going to fall forward, your hands will slip off the bar, and you'll fall face first onto the ground. My instructor had me do a countdown from 3. I said, 3...2...1... And, I sort of moved, but didn't go. Lol! Then, I counted again and took that leap of faith and just went. I actually controlled my descent down, and it wound up being pretty easy. All you have to do is make sure you control yourself and not just flop around. I did this trick again and had no problems with it. This one reminded me of the scare factor in the forward roll trick from my performance. It looks really cool, though, and is very dramatic. I can see putting this into my next performance.
5. Fall Back Angel. This is simply a dramatic way to get into the angel sequence. You start sitting on the bar. You grab the bar with your left hand, and spread your right leg open wide with your foot flexed. You fall backwards, letting the rope slide down your leg, catching on your flexed foot.
6 & 7. Scissor Roll-Up & Seahorse. These are tricks where you wrap your legs up in the ropes while doing a half split. Then, you roll up with the ropes rolling around you. It was actually quite difficult to do, and it was actually fairly painful where the ropes cut into your legs. I forgot how to exactly do them. The Seahorse was easier I think. In the scissor one, it was hard to get the bar along my butt crack so that I could roll up and around it to the 2nd half of the trick. These definitely look dramatic, though. So, I can see doing this in my next act. They will take some work, though, to perfect.
8. Zip Drop. This was my favorite trick. It starts like the shoulder stand (standing on the bar, doing a straddle upside down and wrapping my feet around the ropes). But, it's done higher up on the ropes. And, instead of sliding down the ropes to my shoulders, I had to criss cross the ropes behind my back and then have my hands down to the bar - like doing a hand stand. Then, I had to bring the bar up to just below my pelvis bones. So, I'm only hanging on by my legs. Then, I had to unwrap the part of my legs below the knee, so my toes are pointed towards each other with my knees bent. Then, I had to unwrap my legs the rest of the way, releasing me into the drop. I dropped a couple of feet before catching with the bar just below my pelvis bones. It actually makes a pretty loud noise, which is why I had my instructor reach up to my shoulders to slow my descent. From there, I unwrap my body and finally get right-side up. It's an awesome trick, although you're upside down for quite a while. I guess it won't take so long when I fully know what I'm doing. This was so cool.
9 & 10. Toe Hang & Heel Hang. These tricks are ridiculous. My instructor introduced me to them, although I can see these as tricks that I may not ever do. For one, they're painful, especially the toe hang. 2, They're extremely difficult and would be very easy to fall out of. 3. They're very dangerous in that if you fall, you're going to land right on your head. For the toe hang, you flex your feet and hang from the bar, with the bar at the part where your foot meets your leg. You have to try to bunch the skin up so that there's something to grip so that you don't slide. For the heel hang, you point your toes and hang from the back of your heels. Yeah. Crazy. She had me do them but with heavy spot. I was not holding my entire weight at all. It was an introduction to the tricks, though. They don't let you put that in a show until you can hold it for like 5 minutes and with swinging.
11. Back Balance. This was similar to my straddle back balance trick that I did in my performance (right after the shoulder stand). Only your legs aren't straddled on the ropes. So, it's more of a difficult balance. One leg is out straight, and the other is bent. The bent leg is where you can control your center of gravity to balance.
12. Straight Up and Down. This is a strength move that looks really cool. You're standing on the bar. You pull up into the egg position. Then, you extend your body fully straight, so that your whole body is in line with the ropes. It requires the strength to hold the position as well as the body control/balance to hold yourself upright in that straight line.
So, that was my lesson. I got through learning a LOT. I have some fun new bruises in places that I've never had before. But, I felt very accomplished. I can't wait to do a level 2 routine. It will be so much fun. This is it for the trapeze for me for at least 4 weeks, though. My surgery is in 3 days.
I started out with stretching. My instructor said that now that I have my front splits, that I should try to do hyper-extended splits (putting a book or something under my front leg so that it stretches even more).
Then, we got right to the tricks!
1. Mermaid Under the Bar - this was a beautiful position. You have your 2 hands holding onto the bar. Then, you go into the split under the bar trick. From that, you twist your body so that one arm goes down the middle of your back. Your legs are one on each side of the arm and extend outward, parallel to the ground. So, you wind up looking like a mermaid. Your feet are together to make up the main fish part of the mermaid.
2. 1 Knee Roll-Up. This is a cool transition from underneath the bar to sitting. Again, you start from the split under the bar position. Then, you go into a 1 knee hang. You lock your free leg around the leg with the knee on the bar, and then you place your hands on the ropes so that the bar is in the crook of your elbows, with your arms extending up as high as you can, holding onto the ropes. Then, you unlock your free leg, swing it down to gain momentum. Then, you swing it up and around the bar. Your body remains tucked in a ball as much as possible. Also, you try to keep the bar at your knee rather than letting it slide down. You wind up on top of the bar. Then, you bring the free leg up and over so that you're fully sitting.
3. 2 Knee Roll-Up. This is just like the 1 knee roll-up except that both knees are on the bar when you roll up and around. It's harder in that you don't have the momentum from the swing like you do in the 1 knee roll up. But, it's easier in that it's easier to remain tucked. Also, it's easier to keep the bar in the position at your knees. Both are very cool transitions, though.
4. Forward Straddle Drop. This was extremely terrifying to try. However, once I did it, it actually was pretty easy. I just had to have faith in myself. Essentially, you sit on the trapeze bar, with your legs straddled wide in front of the bar. There's just enough room on the bar between your legs to grab on with both hands. You have to balance for a bit in this position until you go. Then, you fall forward, rolling over, and wind up hanging down from the bar by your 2 hands. The scary part is that it feels like you're going to fall forward, your hands will slip off the bar, and you'll fall face first onto the ground. My instructor had me do a countdown from 3. I said, 3...2...1... And, I sort of moved, but didn't go. Lol! Then, I counted again and took that leap of faith and just went. I actually controlled my descent down, and it wound up being pretty easy. All you have to do is make sure you control yourself and not just flop around. I did this trick again and had no problems with it. This one reminded me of the scare factor in the forward roll trick from my performance. It looks really cool, though, and is very dramatic. I can see putting this into my next performance.
5. Fall Back Angel. This is simply a dramatic way to get into the angel sequence. You start sitting on the bar. You grab the bar with your left hand, and spread your right leg open wide with your foot flexed. You fall backwards, letting the rope slide down your leg, catching on your flexed foot.
6 & 7. Scissor Roll-Up & Seahorse. These are tricks where you wrap your legs up in the ropes while doing a half split. Then, you roll up with the ropes rolling around you. It was actually quite difficult to do, and it was actually fairly painful where the ropes cut into your legs. I forgot how to exactly do them. The Seahorse was easier I think. In the scissor one, it was hard to get the bar along my butt crack so that I could roll up and around it to the 2nd half of the trick. These definitely look dramatic, though. So, I can see doing this in my next act. They will take some work, though, to perfect.
8. Zip Drop. This was my favorite trick. It starts like the shoulder stand (standing on the bar, doing a straddle upside down and wrapping my feet around the ropes). But, it's done higher up on the ropes. And, instead of sliding down the ropes to my shoulders, I had to criss cross the ropes behind my back and then have my hands down to the bar - like doing a hand stand. Then, I had to bring the bar up to just below my pelvis bones. So, I'm only hanging on by my legs. Then, I had to unwrap the part of my legs below the knee, so my toes are pointed towards each other with my knees bent. Then, I had to unwrap my legs the rest of the way, releasing me into the drop. I dropped a couple of feet before catching with the bar just below my pelvis bones. It actually makes a pretty loud noise, which is why I had my instructor reach up to my shoulders to slow my descent. From there, I unwrap my body and finally get right-side up. It's an awesome trick, although you're upside down for quite a while. I guess it won't take so long when I fully know what I'm doing. This was so cool.
9 & 10. Toe Hang & Heel Hang. These tricks are ridiculous. My instructor introduced me to them, although I can see these as tricks that I may not ever do. For one, they're painful, especially the toe hang. 2, They're extremely difficult and would be very easy to fall out of. 3. They're very dangerous in that if you fall, you're going to land right on your head. For the toe hang, you flex your feet and hang from the bar, with the bar at the part where your foot meets your leg. You have to try to bunch the skin up so that there's something to grip so that you don't slide. For the heel hang, you point your toes and hang from the back of your heels. Yeah. Crazy. She had me do them but with heavy spot. I was not holding my entire weight at all. It was an introduction to the tricks, though. They don't let you put that in a show until you can hold it for like 5 minutes and with swinging.
11. Back Balance. This was similar to my straddle back balance trick that I did in my performance (right after the shoulder stand). Only your legs aren't straddled on the ropes. So, it's more of a difficult balance. One leg is out straight, and the other is bent. The bent leg is where you can control your center of gravity to balance.
12. Straight Up and Down. This is a strength move that looks really cool. You're standing on the bar. You pull up into the egg position. Then, you extend your body fully straight, so that your whole body is in line with the ropes. It requires the strength to hold the position as well as the body control/balance to hold yourself upright in that straight line.
So, that was my lesson. I got through learning a LOT. I have some fun new bruises in places that I've never had before. But, I felt very accomplished. I can't wait to do a level 2 routine. It will be so much fun. This is it for the trapeze for me for at least 4 weeks, though. My surgery is in 3 days.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Sunday, Week 29
This is my last weekend before my ear surgery. My ear has definitely felt worse these past several days. I'll be glad to get the surgery over and done. So, my fitness world will be coming to a screeching halt Friday morning. I'm hoping to get some decent exercise in this week before Friday, though. I did some light upper body strength training yesterday morning - not very strenuous, though. I'm not sore today.
Sun - not sure, maybe some cardio, maybe either a fitness dvd or the elliptical machine, nothing too intense
Mon - 1 hour Trapeze private lesson
Tues - Abdominal Strength training and Cardio
Wed - Upper Body Strength training
Thur - something not too strenuous
Friday - surgery, need to be at the hospital for 7:30am
No exercise for 4 weeks
Sun - not sure, maybe some cardio, maybe either a fitness dvd or the elliptical machine, nothing too intense
Mon - 1 hour Trapeze private lesson
Tues - Abdominal Strength training and Cardio
Wed - Upper Body Strength training
Thur - something not too strenuous
Friday - surgery, need to be at the hospital for 7:30am
No exercise for 4 weeks
Friday, January 23, 2009
Friday, Week 28
I recruited 2 of my co-workers to go to Zumba with me during lunch! I'm really looking forward to that. It was a lot of fun last Friday. It's $6 for each drop-in class or $5 per class if you sign up for the whole session. But, with my ear surgery next week, I definitely can't sign up for any full sessions.
Last night was a doozy regarding my ear. It was one of the worst nights - definitely the worst one in a while. I'll be glad when the surgery is over and I'm finished with recouperating. It will be good to have this problem fixed. And, hopefully the tube that he puts in will keep this problem from recurring next year.
I've signed up for one final private trapeze lesson with my instructor for Monday at 6pm. So, I'll get a start with learning the level 2 tricks, and hopefully I won't get too behind while I'm out for the 4 weeks.
I received my packet from the ear doctor's office about my surgery, and it is 4 full weeks of no exercise - specifically no running, no lifting weights, no lifting anything more than 10-20 pounds at all, no sports, nothing to get myself out of breath or straining. Perhaps I'll be able to do some slow walking in the 3rd or 4th week, maybe something like that. The most important thing is that I'll need to try to maintain a positive outlook - and keep my stress level low.
Also, I can monitor my nutrition and keep that decent. I expect I'll put on a little weight in the 4 weeks, but that's ok. My goal is to keep my weight below 118lbs. And, maybe I won't really gain all that much. But, at least this goal should keep me in check with my nutrition and health. And, eating right might actually help my body recouperate faster.
Last night was a doozy regarding my ear. It was one of the worst nights - definitely the worst one in a while. I'll be glad when the surgery is over and I'm finished with recouperating. It will be good to have this problem fixed. And, hopefully the tube that he puts in will keep this problem from recurring next year.
I've signed up for one final private trapeze lesson with my instructor for Monday at 6pm. So, I'll get a start with learning the level 2 tricks, and hopefully I won't get too behind while I'm out for the 4 weeks.
I received my packet from the ear doctor's office about my surgery, and it is 4 full weeks of no exercise - specifically no running, no lifting weights, no lifting anything more than 10-20 pounds at all, no sports, nothing to get myself out of breath or straining. Perhaps I'll be able to do some slow walking in the 3rd or 4th week, maybe something like that. The most important thing is that I'll need to try to maintain a positive outlook - and keep my stress level low.
Also, I can monitor my nutrition and keep that decent. I expect I'll put on a little weight in the 4 weeks, but that's ok. My goal is to keep my weight below 118lbs. And, maybe I won't really gain all that much. But, at least this goal should keep me in check with my nutrition and health. And, eating right might actually help my body recouperate faster.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Sunday, Week 28 (with Progress Update)
It's been another good maintenance week. Even with a splurge last night of Chevy's food and spiced apples and light ice cream at home, my weight is at an awesome level. Here's my official weigh-in to kick off this week. Make sure to read about my trapeze performance below. It truly was a night to remember.
Progress:
Weight: 110.4lbs (goal weight 110-115)
Waist: 25.25 inches (goal 24 - 27)
Below Waist: 27.5 inches (goal (26 - 29)
Exercise:
Upper Body Weights
Stretching
Progress:
Weight: 110.4lbs (goal weight 110-115)
Waist: 25.25 inches (goal 24 - 27)
Below Waist: 27.5 inches (goal (26 - 29)
Exercise:
Upper Body Weights
Stretching
Trapeze Picture
Here's a picture of my Crow's Nest trick. You can see the rest of my trapeze pictures at my gallery site:
http://gallery.joannajackson.com/v/TrapezePerformanceAdultLevel1/
http://gallery.joannajackson.com/v/TrapezePerformanceAdultLevel1/
The Trapeze Perfromance!!!!!
I am so excited to report that my trapeze performance was everything that I had hoped it could possibly be. From the moment I arrived at the City Museum, I started getting that jittery, excited feeling. I got dressed in my costume and put the finishing touches on my make-up. Then, I spent about 12-20 minutes stretching out with one of my fellow performers. The time backstage before the show just flew. Soon, our instructor had us take hands in a circle and was giving us a pep talk. She had us take 3 big deep breaths in and emphasized that we should enjoy the moment and have fun out there.
She went into the circus ring (as she was the announcer), and the show had begun. I was up first. I heard her call my name. The guy backstage pressed play on my music. I couldn't really hear my music at first. The crowd was cheering in the ring, and I was still backstage. So, I just went right on out. As I was doing my first style (a bow to the audience), I started to hear my music, so that was good. But, when I first stepped out from behind the curtains, I could hear the cheering, and I could see the audience. It was such a rush! There's nothing like it. It was so much different from practice.
I made my way to the bar and jumped and grabbed it. There's always a small part of me that is nervous that I'll miss the bar when jumping up at first, but my hands found it with no problem. When I did my front pull over onto the bar, I heard these "oooooohhhhs" from the audience, which energized me even more. Then, I went into my front balance, and people started clapping! Then, when I dropped into my catcher's hang, the audience went crazy. I suppose it is a dramatic trick, so the constant bruises from it each week were worth it. That was definitely a crowd pleaser.
I continued my routine, with the audience clapping at a lot of my tricks. Then, I got to the shoulder stand trick, and I realized that I was way ahead of my music. For just a second, I wondered if I had forgotten a trick! But, no, I must have just been going through my routine fast. It didn't feel like it, since I was pausing whenever the audience was clapping and such. But, I must have been going fast. So, I slowed it down from there on and made sure to hold my tricks longer.
Then, I came towards the end of the performance. It was time for my new Crow's Nest trick, the Arabesque, Forward Roll, and Ladybug - all my heavy hitter strength tricks. I got into the Crow's Nest with no problem. My feet found the correct position right away. I remebered my instructor had said to look around at the audience while in that trick, so I held it while I looked forward and then all the way to the opposite end of the audience. It was perfect. Then, I came down back to a stand and styled, giving my hands a brief respite. I went into my arabesque, making sure to have good extension, and then I came out of it and into the forward roll. Then, I did my lady bug, and dismounted the bar.
I wound up ending at a good place in my music - almost at the very end. So, I had succeeded in getting back to a normal pace once I realized that I was going too fast. All in all, I did as well as I could have possibly hoped for. I hit all my tricks. I smiled a lot. Granted, my music wasn't necessarily smiley music, but I think it worked well.
Once I was back stage, you couldn't wipe the smile off my face. I still felt a bundle of nerves - as if thinking, did this really happen? Did I actually do it? The time had passed in a blink of an eye.
It was a packed house. The stands were almost completely full. Plus, people were watching from outside the ring behind the glass, too. There were easily over 100 people in attendance. There were people of all ages - young kids to the elderly.
The rest of the show went by in the blink of an eye. The show was about a 1/2 hour long total, but it seemed even shorter than that. We were all talking about our experiences backstage, and we got to watch some of the performances through the side glass.
It was a night to remember. It's probably the most exciting thing that I've ever been a part of.
She went into the circus ring (as she was the announcer), and the show had begun. I was up first. I heard her call my name. The guy backstage pressed play on my music. I couldn't really hear my music at first. The crowd was cheering in the ring, and I was still backstage. So, I just went right on out. As I was doing my first style (a bow to the audience), I started to hear my music, so that was good. But, when I first stepped out from behind the curtains, I could hear the cheering, and I could see the audience. It was such a rush! There's nothing like it. It was so much different from practice.
I made my way to the bar and jumped and grabbed it. There's always a small part of me that is nervous that I'll miss the bar when jumping up at first, but my hands found it with no problem. When I did my front pull over onto the bar, I heard these "oooooohhhhs" from the audience, which energized me even more. Then, I went into my front balance, and people started clapping! Then, when I dropped into my catcher's hang, the audience went crazy. I suppose it is a dramatic trick, so the constant bruises from it each week were worth it. That was definitely a crowd pleaser.
I continued my routine, with the audience clapping at a lot of my tricks. Then, I got to the shoulder stand trick, and I realized that I was way ahead of my music. For just a second, I wondered if I had forgotten a trick! But, no, I must have just been going through my routine fast. It didn't feel like it, since I was pausing whenever the audience was clapping and such. But, I must have been going fast. So, I slowed it down from there on and made sure to hold my tricks longer.
Then, I came towards the end of the performance. It was time for my new Crow's Nest trick, the Arabesque, Forward Roll, and Ladybug - all my heavy hitter strength tricks. I got into the Crow's Nest with no problem. My feet found the correct position right away. I remebered my instructor had said to look around at the audience while in that trick, so I held it while I looked forward and then all the way to the opposite end of the audience. It was perfect. Then, I came down back to a stand and styled, giving my hands a brief respite. I went into my arabesque, making sure to have good extension, and then I came out of it and into the forward roll. Then, I did my lady bug, and dismounted the bar.
I wound up ending at a good place in my music - almost at the very end. So, I had succeeded in getting back to a normal pace once I realized that I was going too fast. All in all, I did as well as I could have possibly hoped for. I hit all my tricks. I smiled a lot. Granted, my music wasn't necessarily smiley music, but I think it worked well.
Once I was back stage, you couldn't wipe the smile off my face. I still felt a bundle of nerves - as if thinking, did this really happen? Did I actually do it? The time had passed in a blink of an eye.
It was a packed house. The stands were almost completely full. Plus, people were watching from outside the ring behind the glass, too. There were easily over 100 people in attendance. There were people of all ages - young kids to the elderly.
The rest of the show went by in the blink of an eye. The show was about a 1/2 hour long total, but it seemed even shorter than that. We were all talking about our experiences backstage, and we got to watch some of the performances through the side glass.
It was a night to remember. It's probably the most exciting thing that I've ever been a part of.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Saturday, Week 27 - Trapeze Performance Day!
The day is finally here!
It's been a journey. When I started trapeze class back in September, I weighed about 125 lbs. This morning, I weighed in at 109.4 lbs. Plus, I've gained a ton of strength and stamina. I've push through being sick. I've pushed past my ear troubles. It's been a battle of mind and will over body. I'm so happy that I've made it this far.
I'm actually feeling really good today. My ear has been decent both yesterday and today. Maybe I'm getting well from it. It would be great to not have to have the surgery. Time will tell. I still have the hole in my ear drum. Maybe that's all that was needed to get it to drain. Better not get my hopes up, though. I can just be happy that I'm feeling good today. Not perfect, but so much better than some of the days.
Stay tuned. I'll definitely post about the performance tonight.
Food:
Breakfast: 3/4 Kashi (100/11), 3/4 Milk (60/6)
Snack: Clementine (55/1), Yogurt (55/5.5)
Lunch: Chicken (150/27), Veggies (60/2)
Snack: Small Muscle Punch Smoothie (264/5), Salmon (130/23)
Pre-Trapeze Performance: South Beach Bar (140/10)
Post-Trapeze: IsoPure w/ Milk (100/20)
Dinner: Chevy's Mixed Grill (didn't eat it all) ?
Dessert: Spiced Apples and Light Vanilla Ice Cream
Total Calories: 1114 + ?
Total Protein: 110.5 + ?
Exercise:
20 minutes walking on treadmill
Stretching
Trapeze Performance!
It's been a journey. When I started trapeze class back in September, I weighed about 125 lbs. This morning, I weighed in at 109.4 lbs. Plus, I've gained a ton of strength and stamina. I've push through being sick. I've pushed past my ear troubles. It's been a battle of mind and will over body. I'm so happy that I've made it this far.
I'm actually feeling really good today. My ear has been decent both yesterday and today. Maybe I'm getting well from it. It would be great to not have to have the surgery. Time will tell. I still have the hole in my ear drum. Maybe that's all that was needed to get it to drain. Better not get my hopes up, though. I can just be happy that I'm feeling good today. Not perfect, but so much better than some of the days.
Stay tuned. I'll definitely post about the performance tonight.
Food:
Breakfast: 3/4 Kashi (100/11), 3/4 Milk (60/6)
Snack: Clementine (55/1), Yogurt (55/5.5)
Lunch: Chicken (150/27), Veggies (60/2)
Snack: Small Muscle Punch Smoothie (264/5), Salmon (130/23)
Pre-Trapeze Performance: South Beach Bar (140/10)
Post-Trapeze: IsoPure w/ Milk (100/20)
Dinner: Chevy's Mixed Grill (didn't eat it all) ?
Dessert: Spiced Apples and Light Vanilla Ice Cream
Total Calories: 1114 + ?
Total Protein: 110.5 + ?
Exercise:
20 minutes walking on treadmill
Stretching
Trapeze Performance!
Friday, January 16, 2009
Hair Appointment Set
I'm all set with a hair appointment for tomorrow at 4pm. This will be nice to have something better than my standard pony tail for my trapeze performance tomorrow. Maybe I can go out tomorrow during the day to find some kind of hair ribbon or something to go in it. I'm terrible at doing hair, so I figured that this would be something good to splurge on. Hopefully, it will complete my trapeze look. At least I'm good with make-up. I can do my own for that.
I need to concentrate on the positives for tomorrow rather than the possibilities of people being sick and not being able to come watch. This should be a fun experience, not a stressful one. I think this hair appointment will help with getting me in the mood of this special day tomorrow. Hopefully, I'll get a hair-do that's elegant, yet very secure.
I need to concentrate on the positives for tomorrow rather than the possibilities of people being sick and not being able to come watch. This should be a fun experience, not a stressful one. I think this hair appointment will help with getting me in the mood of this special day tomorrow. Hopefully, I'll get a hair-do that's elegant, yet very secure.
Friday, Week 27
I still weighed in the morning at 111.2 lbs. So, that's excellent. Only one more day until my trapeze performance. I'm keeping it super low sodium today and tomorrow, as well as high protein. My muscles recovered from trapeze practice fairly decently. I want to keep it that way.
Food:
Breakfast: 3/4 Kashi (100/11), 3/4 Milk (60/6)
Snack: Clementine (55/1), Yogurt (55/5.5)
Lunch: Chicken (150/27), Veggies (60/2)
Snack: Clementines (55/1), Soy Beans (100/8)
Snack: Choc IsoPure w/ milk (100/20)
Dinner: Salmon Filet (140/21), Red Potato (60/3), Veggies (60/2)
Snack: 3/4 Kashi (100/11), 3/4 Milk (60/6)
Total Calories: 1155
Total Protein: 124.5
Exercise:
50 min Free Zumba Class at work
Stretching
Food:
Breakfast: 3/4 Kashi (100/11), 3/4 Milk (60/6)
Snack: Clementine (55/1), Yogurt (55/5.5)
Lunch: Chicken (150/27), Veggies (60/2)
Snack: Clementines (55/1), Soy Beans (100/8)
Snack: Choc IsoPure w/ milk (100/20)
Dinner: Salmon Filet (140/21), Red Potato (60/3), Veggies (60/2)
Snack: 3/4 Kashi (100/11), 3/4 Milk (60/6)
Total Calories: 1155
Total Protein: 124.5
Exercise:
50 min Free Zumba Class at work
Stretching
Final Trapeze Adult Level 1 Class!
Last night was my final practice before the performance tomorrow night. Everyone wore their costumes, and we each ran through our performances twice. We also practiced the curtain call (what we do at the end after everyone has finished). We'll each come out and get a final bow.
It was a strange rehearsal. Everyone - except for the guy - seemed to have some problems with their first run through. Mine wasn't so terrible, but I made 2 fairly big errors. First, I wrapped my arms for the double arm flag. I was all set to do the trick when I realized that I was sitting rather than squatting. So, it was pretty awkward getting my legs up and behind the bar to do the trick. But, at least I made it work. So, that was the first problem. Then, the second problem was when I was about to do the Crow's Nest. I was upside down, all set to go. But, I wrapped my feet instead of just hooking them. So, I did some kind of trick, but it wasn't the Crow's Nest. But, at least I did something and then kept going and finished the routine. So, there were some problems. Also, at the beginning, when I was sliding down onto the bar for the fetal balance and free handed hammock trick, it felt like there was a ton of wobbling on the bar. It was less than graceful.
After that run through, my instructor showed me how to do the Crow's Nest again. I practiced it and got it right.
My second run through was much improved. There was less wobbling in the transition to the fetal balance/free handed hammock. I didn't mess up on the setup for the free handed hammock. And, I did the Crow's Nest correctly. So, it was much better. I still didn't get the arabesque into the forward roll without putting my foot down. But, I don't think that matters. It can just be 2 separate tricks.
Then, at the very end of practice, I practiced my Crow's Nest/Arabesque/Forward Roll sequence again and got it right.
So, overall it was a good rehearsal. It's troubling that my first run-through was so rough because we are NOT going to practice before the show. We'll be stretching only. So, I have to walk in there on Saturday ready to go and nail it the first time.
After the rehearsal, I was feeling pretty bad. My headache/ear ache was in full swing, and I was just beat. Then, when we got home we found out that my husband had 102 degree fever! He's out from work today. I'm really hoping I don't catch whatever it is that he has. I'm drinking lots of green tea and eating oranges and am taking my vitamins. This morning, his temperature was back to normal, but he's off from work today. I'm really hoping it doesn't go back up. So, hopefully he will still be able to watch me perform. But, if he's still sick, I can't see him going. The stands for the audience are packed really close together. It wouldn't be right for him to go there with a fever and contaminate everyone around him. I just have to stay well until after the show (well, not actually well - I still have this ear problem, but I have to not get sick with anything else). If he can't go, at least he'll be able to see the video. I wanted video and pictures, but I suppose we can get pictures off of the video. I really wanted a picture of the Crow's Nest trick, since that's the new one that I don't have pictures of. But, people don't always get everything they want. At least I will have pushed through. Tomorrow can't get here soon enough.
It was a strange rehearsal. Everyone - except for the guy - seemed to have some problems with their first run through. Mine wasn't so terrible, but I made 2 fairly big errors. First, I wrapped my arms for the double arm flag. I was all set to do the trick when I realized that I was sitting rather than squatting. So, it was pretty awkward getting my legs up and behind the bar to do the trick. But, at least I made it work. So, that was the first problem. Then, the second problem was when I was about to do the Crow's Nest. I was upside down, all set to go. But, I wrapped my feet instead of just hooking them. So, I did some kind of trick, but it wasn't the Crow's Nest. But, at least I did something and then kept going and finished the routine. So, there were some problems. Also, at the beginning, when I was sliding down onto the bar for the fetal balance and free handed hammock trick, it felt like there was a ton of wobbling on the bar. It was less than graceful.
After that run through, my instructor showed me how to do the Crow's Nest again. I practiced it and got it right.
My second run through was much improved. There was less wobbling in the transition to the fetal balance/free handed hammock. I didn't mess up on the setup for the free handed hammock. And, I did the Crow's Nest correctly. So, it was much better. I still didn't get the arabesque into the forward roll without putting my foot down. But, I don't think that matters. It can just be 2 separate tricks.
Then, at the very end of practice, I practiced my Crow's Nest/Arabesque/Forward Roll sequence again and got it right.
So, overall it was a good rehearsal. It's troubling that my first run-through was so rough because we are NOT going to practice before the show. We'll be stretching only. So, I have to walk in there on Saturday ready to go and nail it the first time.
After the rehearsal, I was feeling pretty bad. My headache/ear ache was in full swing, and I was just beat. Then, when we got home we found out that my husband had 102 degree fever! He's out from work today. I'm really hoping I don't catch whatever it is that he has. I'm drinking lots of green tea and eating oranges and am taking my vitamins. This morning, his temperature was back to normal, but he's off from work today. I'm really hoping it doesn't go back up. So, hopefully he will still be able to watch me perform. But, if he's still sick, I can't see him going. The stands for the audience are packed really close together. It wouldn't be right for him to go there with a fever and contaminate everyone around him. I just have to stay well until after the show (well, not actually well - I still have this ear problem, but I have to not get sick with anything else). If he can't go, at least he'll be able to see the video. I wanted video and pictures, but I suppose we can get pictures off of the video. I really wanted a picture of the Crow's Nest trick, since that's the new one that I don't have pictures of. But, people don't always get everything they want. At least I will have pushed through. Tomorrow can't get here soon enough.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Thursday, Week 27
I figured I would do an old school style post so that you can see that I've been keeping my diet relatively consistent with what I've done in the past to trim down. I still drink loads of green tea and water every day. And, I really only drink maybe 1-2 diet soft drinks per week, sometimes even less. I think I've lost the taste for them again. Regardless, I just haven't wanted it.
My performance is Saturday, so I'm keeping my diet clean until then. The only deviation that I might add is a glass of wine, depending on how my ear feels tonight. But, I'm low on calories anyway, so an extra hundred wouldn't be such a bad thing anyway. I weighed in at 111.2 lbs this morning, which is excellent. I just want to be below 113 for Saturday's performance. That weight level seems to be optimal for my being able to perform my tricks.
Tonight is my big test. It will be an indication of how Saturday will go. I'll be able to see if I can do this new Crow's Nest trick, along with the 2 strength ones that follow it. I'm optimistic. My energy levels have recovered to a decent level. So, I'm not anticipating any problems there. I've been slacking a bit regarding full stretching sessions because my hamstring muscle still hurts. It will be a relief to make it to the performance. I will have accomplished this huge goal. It's almost here. Just a few more days. Wish me luck!
Food:
Breakfast: 3/4 Kashi (100/11), 3/4 Milk (60/6)
Snack: Apple (80/0), Yogurt (55/5.5)
Lunch: Chicken (150/27), Spinach (100/6)
Snack: 2 Clementines (110/2)
Pre-Trapeze: South Beach Bar (140/10)
Post-Trapeze: Choc IsoPure w/ milk (100/20)
Dinner: Mesquite Grilled Chicken (170/30), Red Potato (60/3), Veggies (60/2), Wine (100/0)
Snack: Skinny Cow (100/4)
Total Calories: 1385
Total Protein: 126.5
Exercise:
90 minute Trapeze Class
My performance is Saturday, so I'm keeping my diet clean until then. The only deviation that I might add is a glass of wine, depending on how my ear feels tonight. But, I'm low on calories anyway, so an extra hundred wouldn't be such a bad thing anyway. I weighed in at 111.2 lbs this morning, which is excellent. I just want to be below 113 for Saturday's performance. That weight level seems to be optimal for my being able to perform my tricks.
Tonight is my big test. It will be an indication of how Saturday will go. I'll be able to see if I can do this new Crow's Nest trick, along with the 2 strength ones that follow it. I'm optimistic. My energy levels have recovered to a decent level. So, I'm not anticipating any problems there. I've been slacking a bit regarding full stretching sessions because my hamstring muscle still hurts. It will be a relief to make it to the performance. I will have accomplished this huge goal. It's almost here. Just a few more days. Wish me luck!
Food:
Breakfast: 3/4 Kashi (100/11), 3/4 Milk (60/6)
Snack: Apple (80/0), Yogurt (55/5.5)
Lunch: Chicken (150/27), Spinach (100/6)
Snack: 2 Clementines (110/2)
Pre-Trapeze: South Beach Bar (140/10)
Post-Trapeze: Choc IsoPure w/ milk (100/20)
Dinner: Mesquite Grilled Chicken (170/30), Red Potato (60/3), Veggies (60/2), Wine (100/0)
Snack: Skinny Cow (100/4)
Total Calories: 1385
Total Protein: 126.5
Exercise:
90 minute Trapeze Class
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Tuesday, Week 27
I missed my weekly weigh in on Sunday, but I did a weigh in this morning, and I was at 112.4 lbs. So, I'm still right on track with my maintenance. I didn't take my measurements, but I'm sure they're about the same as well.
This is the week I've been waiting for! My trapeze performance is on Saturday. My last trapeze class is this Thursday. Everything's building up for this finale. I'm so excited about it.
This weekend was kind of strange. My energy levels plummeted. I think it was a combination of my ear troubles and female issues. Saturday night I went to sleep before 9pm and slept until 11am the next day! So, I got 14 hours of sleep. But, I was still fatigued. I spent almost the entire day in bed on Sunday. I think the rest did me some good. But, my energy is still very low. Pilates yesterday was brutal. It was 10 times harder than it's ever been (and I don't think the class changed - it was definitely a change in me). My diet has been pretty much the same as always - mostly clean eating, lots of protein, lots of fresh fruits and veggies. My female issues will be finishing up here in the next couple of days, though. So, I'm hoping that will fix my energy problems. I'm hoping it's not my ear. If I it my ear, I can always scale back my performance to take out the new Crow's nest trick and the arabesque. So, at least I do have a back up plan in case my endurance is just not up to par.
It's so strange. My body has become more unpredictable. My ear definitely still doesn't feel "normal", but I don't know. Is this something that surgery will be able to correct? It would stink to go through the pain and recovery of a surgery if it won't fix my problem. I'm more concerned about next winter more than anything else. My ear definitely seems to be vulnerable.
Oh well, I need to focus on the positive. I'm going to try to schedule a facial for Friday night. And, then I'm going to schedule an appointment to get my hair done on Saturday for my performance. I'm sure they can do something with it to make it look better than my plain pony tail. So, there are exciting times coming up this week!
This is the week I've been waiting for! My trapeze performance is on Saturday. My last trapeze class is this Thursday. Everything's building up for this finale. I'm so excited about it.
This weekend was kind of strange. My energy levels plummeted. I think it was a combination of my ear troubles and female issues. Saturday night I went to sleep before 9pm and slept until 11am the next day! So, I got 14 hours of sleep. But, I was still fatigued. I spent almost the entire day in bed on Sunday. I think the rest did me some good. But, my energy is still very low. Pilates yesterday was brutal. It was 10 times harder than it's ever been (and I don't think the class changed - it was definitely a change in me). My diet has been pretty much the same as always - mostly clean eating, lots of protein, lots of fresh fruits and veggies. My female issues will be finishing up here in the next couple of days, though. So, I'm hoping that will fix my energy problems. I'm hoping it's not my ear. If I it my ear, I can always scale back my performance to take out the new Crow's nest trick and the arabesque. So, at least I do have a back up plan in case my endurance is just not up to par.
It's so strange. My body has become more unpredictable. My ear definitely still doesn't feel "normal", but I don't know. Is this something that surgery will be able to correct? It would stink to go through the pain and recovery of a surgery if it won't fix my problem. I'm more concerned about next winter more than anything else. My ear definitely seems to be vulnerable.
Oh well, I need to focus on the positive. I'm going to try to schedule a facial for Friday night. And, then I'm going to schedule an appointment to get my hair done on Saturday for my performance. I'm sure they can do something with it to make it look better than my plain pony tail. So, there are exciting times coming up this week!
Friday, January 9, 2009
12th Trapeze Class
Trapeze class is winding to a finish. This was the 2nd to last class. So, there's only 1 more practice before the performance. My routine is really coming together well. But... My instructor added a new trick to my routine!!!
For the past several weeks she's been bothered by the fact that I needed more of a reason to have gone up to standing for my forward roll. That's one reason why she added in the arabesque for me during my private lessons. But, that still wasn't enough. So, now I'm doing what's called a Crow's Nest, which is another strength intensive trick.
In this .pdf, it's the "Bird's Nest (on ropes) trick, although the feet are slightly different than in the picture.
http://www.fedec.net/fr/manuel%201%20-%20part%202.pdf
It might be the most impressive looking trick in my routine, which is why I'm happy about adding it in at such a late time. I've done this trick 2 times total now. First, outside of my routine to learn it, which had a slightly shaky start. The first time I tried it, I was trying to wrap my legs around the ropes, which is wrong. The legs are not supporting any of the weight in this trick. It all rests on the hands. I did get it, though, on my second try of the trick. I think I'm able to make the position come out really well. Then, the second time I actually did the trick was inside my routine. I had no problems with getting into the trick - although I'm sure my facial expression was not exuding peace at that time. So, the trick went well. But, then after my arabesque, my hands felt unsure, so I had to re-adjust them before the forward roll. So, that didn't go smoothly. Hopefully I'll be able to fix these issues at the next (last) practice before the show.
After class, I felt absolutely horrible (ear-wise). But, at least I didn't have any issues during class.
I checked with my instructor regarding what to do about the next session of classes - because of my ear surgery. She talked to her manager. I can hold off on signing up for the level 2 session. Then, once I'm ready to come back, I can sign up then. And, they'll pro-rate the session for me so that I don't have to pay for the classes that I'll have missed. So, that's awesome news. Normally they don't do anything like this, but my instructor convinced her manager that this is a special circumstance. So, that's a relief! I'll be able to continue my lessons in the level 2 class. I'll probably have to miss either 3 or 4 classes, since the next session starts the first week in February. And, I can always do a couple of private lessons to catch up if I've gotten behind. So, I have plenty of incentive to eat right while I'm recovering. At least all my muscles will be totally recovered during my rest period after the surgery. So, that's good.
For the past several weeks she's been bothered by the fact that I needed more of a reason to have gone up to standing for my forward roll. That's one reason why she added in the arabesque for me during my private lessons. But, that still wasn't enough. So, now I'm doing what's called a Crow's Nest, which is another strength intensive trick.
In this .pdf, it's the "Bird's Nest (on ropes) trick, although the feet are slightly different than in the picture.
http://www.fedec.net/fr/manuel%201%20-%20part%202.pdf
It might be the most impressive looking trick in my routine, which is why I'm happy about adding it in at such a late time. I've done this trick 2 times total now. First, outside of my routine to learn it, which had a slightly shaky start. The first time I tried it, I was trying to wrap my legs around the ropes, which is wrong. The legs are not supporting any of the weight in this trick. It all rests on the hands. I did get it, though, on my second try of the trick. I think I'm able to make the position come out really well. Then, the second time I actually did the trick was inside my routine. I had no problems with getting into the trick - although I'm sure my facial expression was not exuding peace at that time. So, the trick went well. But, then after my arabesque, my hands felt unsure, so I had to re-adjust them before the forward roll. So, that didn't go smoothly. Hopefully I'll be able to fix these issues at the next (last) practice before the show.
After class, I felt absolutely horrible (ear-wise). But, at least I didn't have any issues during class.
I checked with my instructor regarding what to do about the next session of classes - because of my ear surgery. She talked to her manager. I can hold off on signing up for the level 2 session. Then, once I'm ready to come back, I can sign up then. And, they'll pro-rate the session for me so that I don't have to pay for the classes that I'll have missed. So, that's awesome news. Normally they don't do anything like this, but my instructor convinced her manager that this is a special circumstance. So, that's a relief! I'll be able to continue my lessons in the level 2 class. I'll probably have to miss either 3 or 4 classes, since the next session starts the first week in February. And, I can always do a couple of private lessons to catch up if I've gotten behind. So, I have plenty of incentive to eat right while I'm recovering. At least all my muscles will be totally recovered during my rest period after the surgery. So, that's good.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Trapeze Performance Order
Who hoo! I just got the order of the performers for our trapeze show on Saturday Jan, 17th at 8pm. I'm going to perform first! This is excellent news for me, since 8pm is pretty late at night as it is. So, I'm very happy about that. Plus, there will be no one before me, so there will be no expectations or comparisons. People will just be able to enjoy what I do.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Link to Trapeze Pics
Here is the link to my trapeze pictures! I'll post the link to the video once I get it online.
http://gallery.joannajackson.com/v/Trapeze/
http://gallery.joannajackson.com/v/Trapeze/
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Sunday, Week 26 (with Progress Update)
It's been another decent maintenance week. I'm getting tired of having my endurance so low, though. My run earlier this week was only 2 miles. But, at least I got a little bit of everything in. I think I had 2 rest days this past week - due to ear problems. I did pilates, weights, running, Tae Bo, and Trapeze. So, all in all a good week.
Progress:
Weight: 112.4lbs (goal weight 110-115)
Waist: 25.5 inches (goal 24 - 27)
Below Waist: 26.75 inches (goal (26 - 29)
Progress:
Weight: 112.4lbs (goal weight 110-115)
Waist: 25.5 inches (goal 24 - 27)
Below Waist: 26.75 inches (goal (26 - 29)
Trapeze Semi-Private Lesson
Yesterday morning I had my semi-private trapeze lesson. It was me and one other person (and my instructor of course). My husband and our friend came with me to do video and pictures. I felt like I had an entourage. It was pretty cool.
I had a pulled right hamstring, so stretching was particularly painful. Hopefully that will heal up soon. But, it didn't effect my performance.
I was able to do my routine 3 times. I think my instructor gave us a little extra time over the hour. I was still able to nail my Front Pullover, so I have truly learned that trick. And, I was able to put in my arabesque. At class on Thursday I'm going to try to go from my leg up in the arabesque straight into the forward roll. I didn't feel "ready" to roll from that position on Saturday, so I had to bring my leg back down. So, it was more like 2 separate tricks rather than one long one. But, my instructor said that it looked good anyway.
After I did my routine once, my instructor said that she could tell that I've been going over my routine in my head - which was a really nice compliment. Her main comments were regarding relaxing my facial expressions. The 3rd time around, I was really going for an exuding peace. Everything seemed to click with that routine. I really felt the music, too, rather than thinking about my tricks. Everyone saw the difference and said that this time was far better than any of the others. It was the intangible quality of the performance.
So, I got 3 videos from straight on. And, I got pictures from 3 different angles. I can't wait to see them. And, I'll get a link to everything as soon as they get put online.
I had a pulled right hamstring, so stretching was particularly painful. Hopefully that will heal up soon. But, it didn't effect my performance.
I was able to do my routine 3 times. I think my instructor gave us a little extra time over the hour. I was still able to nail my Front Pullover, so I have truly learned that trick. And, I was able to put in my arabesque. At class on Thursday I'm going to try to go from my leg up in the arabesque straight into the forward roll. I didn't feel "ready" to roll from that position on Saturday, so I had to bring my leg back down. So, it was more like 2 separate tricks rather than one long one. But, my instructor said that it looked good anyway.
After I did my routine once, my instructor said that she could tell that I've been going over my routine in my head - which was a really nice compliment. Her main comments were regarding relaxing my facial expressions. The 3rd time around, I was really going for an exuding peace. Everything seemed to click with that routine. I really felt the music, too, rather than thinking about my tricks. Everyone saw the difference and said that this time was far better than any of the others. It was the intangible quality of the performance.
So, I got 3 videos from straight on. And, I got pictures from 3 different angles. I can't wait to see them. And, I'll get a link to everything as soon as they get put online.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Friday, Week 25
It's been an interesting week so far. My weight has stayed within my range. It actually fluctuates quite a bit on a daily basis. Some morning weights have been 113.4, 110.8, 111.6, and then 112.4 today. So, all of this is good.
As for my nutrition, I've stopped tracking my exact calories. I eat a lot of my same healthy foods daily or almost daily - my unsweetened Teavana tea, salad with turkey, apple and yogurt, celery/carrots, Kashi Lean with Skim milk, IsoPure, Pear/Clementine, cabbage, broccoli, and I actually bought some Kiwis, too. I've been mixing that with lean meats. And, then I've been enjoying Eddy's Light Ice Cream. The Double Fudge Brownie ice cream is amazing.
So, I've been enjoying my food, but still eat healthy at least 90% of the time.
As for exercising, I've kept that up, too, although at a lesser intensity/duration due to the problems with my ear. This past week I've done Pilates, Upper Body Weights, the Treadmill, and lots of stretching. Yesterday was particularly hard on my ear-wise, so I took a break.
But, I'm still going strong with my maintenance phase. I have my semi-private trapeze lesson tomorrow morning, where I'm going to get more video and still pictures. Wish me luck!
As for my nutrition, I've stopped tracking my exact calories. I eat a lot of my same healthy foods daily or almost daily - my unsweetened Teavana tea, salad with turkey, apple and yogurt, celery/carrots, Kashi Lean with Skim milk, IsoPure, Pear/Clementine, cabbage, broccoli, and I actually bought some Kiwis, too. I've been mixing that with lean meats. And, then I've been enjoying Eddy's Light Ice Cream. The Double Fudge Brownie ice cream is amazing.
So, I've been enjoying my food, but still eat healthy at least 90% of the time.
As for exercising, I've kept that up, too, although at a lesser intensity/duration due to the problems with my ear. This past week I've done Pilates, Upper Body Weights, the Treadmill, and lots of stretching. Yesterday was particularly hard on my ear-wise, so I took a break.
But, I'm still going strong with my maintenance phase. I have my semi-private trapeze lesson tomorrow morning, where I'm going to get more video and still pictures. Wish me luck!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)