At the latter part of my 2nd semester, I had this thought of starting an exercise regimen. To be honest, this was just a random thing I decided on because of the Coronavirus lockdown in my country. My goal was to include fitness in my daily life and to gain muscle strength because it is vital in my field. So, I could not prove if the program does let you lose weight as I did this with NO diet. I was actually debating whether to start with the beginner program or just dive in the June calendar. I really did believe that I wasn’t that physically weak (although I live a sedentary lifestyle), and so I chose to take the June program.
credit: Cassey Ho (Blogilates)
If you’re wondering how her monthly exercise plan works, it goes like this. She creates a calendar of exercises you have to do each day (there are even tick boxes which I love to cross out at the end of the workout). Each day’s set of exercises are already made into YouTube playlists which you simply have to watch and follow. Every day of the week has a respective target area so that every part of your body gets enough work as well as rest.
The main reason why I chose Cassey’s program among other fitness gurus’ is because I have experience of doing her exercises. I know, firsthand, how intense yet tolerable her workouts are hence the workout distribution is perfect for those beginning or getting back on their fitness journey. I also prefer the variety she offers throughout the month. There will be some days you will find yourself dancing and other days trying to hold a pose.
When I started the program, there were some exercises I couldn’t do -- one of which is the grasshopper move. It was like a slap in my face that I did get weaker after entering college. By the end of the 40 minutes, I would find myself sweating buckets and breathing heavily. I would advise that you do prepare a big jug of water throughout the workout.
There were times when I didn’t feel like working out (I think many would relate to this) but I really made sure to push myself to finish it. But then at the back of my mind, I could feel Cassey telling me to stand up and just do it. This is another thing I love about her, the motivation she gives throughout her videos. She knows it’s not easy but she also knows this is what’s best for us.
Today, I want to proudly say that I finished the entire June workout calendar and it really did allow me to grow stronger and have better endurance. I could also see my muscles getting toned for the better. There are some exercises that I got the hang of such as squats and planks. As for the grasshoppers I mentioned earlier? I could finally do them! However, other exercises still have the power have me rolling on the floor while groaning in pain.
For my closing remarks, I just want to reiterate that this challenge was not for me to lose weight but to gain strength. The entire month was a fun filled journey with Cassey and I hate-love every moment of it. I hope you guys try her Monthly Workout Calendar! Just be prepared to find yourself quivering at the end of each day ;)
