Jillian actually says to you, “I want you to feel like you’re going to die.” I had to laugh out loud at that while I was doing her DVD: Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred. It was a short laugh, believe me, because then I went back to huffing and puffing. I work out a lot I would say. I’m a bridesmaid in a wedding August 1st (best wishes to Kristen and Mike!) and that has been my inspiration for losing the baby weight and toning back up. We’re talking I run 5 miles 2-3 times a week, lift weights twice a week, and work out with my trainer once a week. Just to give you a little background– I felt totally prepared for this DVD and I still found it to be really challenging and a great work out. Don’t be freaked if you’re not fit yet… she offers modifications to the work outs. Plus, you can always just do one level at a time.
Normally I am a huge fan of going to the gym. And I love my trainer, Lisa G. But when you’re out of town or don’t have child care it can be really hard to get to the gym. So I’m entering into the realm of work out DVDs. This one got great reviews on Amazon and I’ve watched Jillian kick people’s butts on The Biggest Loser so I figured I’d give it a go. I loved it! She does circuit training which involves doing a few different exercises and rotating through them. 3 minutes of strength exercises, 2 minutes of cardio, 1 minutes of abs. That gives you one circuit. There are 3 circuits in each level which is 20 minutes. Here’s the break down more clearly:
3 Levels (20 min each)
3 circuits in each level which consist of strength exercises, cardio, abs
In her strength exercises she combines leg and arm movements to maximize calorie burning in the shortest amount of time. For example, you might do side lunges while lifting your hand weights in front of you. Cardio might be jumping jacks or jumping rope. And NO breaks during the 20 minute level. Jillian said when you feel uncomfortable is the most important time to stick with it because that’s when you promote changes in your body. I did two levels yesterday and was very pleased. I felt like I got one of the best work outs from a DVD I’ve ever had. It was like working out with my trainer because of the circuit-style format. Of course Lisa is more fun though. 
(she reads my personal faves.)
All you need is a mat and some handweights. And some determination. Enjoy! Oh, plus I thought it was really affordable. Can you tell I love this DVD??
Sarah,
I got tired just reading your review.
I think I’ll have to rent Grandpa’s 30 Day Shred. Instead. You know, the one with the cane curls and the codger squats.
Heh.
Nice review.
Frank
I can only imagine what her CD is like. She’s pretty tough on people.
Glad to see you are still challenging yourself even though you are away.
Good to read you enjoy working with me too
Yeah! I am going to order it! What amount of weights do you use (5 lbs? 10 lbs?).
thanks!
I used 5 pound weights because that’s all I had but you can totally go heavier Libby, especially if you’re only doing one level at a time.