Q: I have been using, with great results, many of your Gaiam DVDs since last October. I started with the BalanceBall workout and then added the Cardio workout. For the past month, I have also added the Resistance Cord (medium) and the Toning Ball. I rotate all of these workouts during the week and allow 1 to 3 rest days (depending on how busy I am). I have lost 8 pounds and have added noticeable muscle definition. I feel healthier and stronger. Before starting your programs, I did exercise regularly but I focused entirely on repetitive cardio (running or speed walking incline on the treadmill). I realized after using your videos the importance of a more total body approach to fitness.

I know this is probably normal but I feel as though my progression has slowed down a lot&hellip I have already incorporated the challenges you suggest on the videos (i.e., adding weights). I recently got a gym membership and wanted to know what your advice is for gym routines if my goal is to continue a total body strength progression. I want to get stronger – more lean and toned. I particularly need advice on how to better focus on strengthening my abs. I feel as though I strengthened my lower back faster than the front on my core and back is beginning to overcompensate. (I have been experiencing some lower back pain very recently; I know it is not a form issue).

Anyway, I want to let you know that you have been a wonderful positive influence in my life. Your workouts never fail to motivate both while exercising and in general health related choices in life. Thank you!
– Marissa

A: Hi, Marissa! Thank you for your email. Trust me, EVERY workout program comes to a place where you stagnate a bit. It is called a plateau. My body does it, too! Sometimes when the focus is weight loss, you can experience the feeling of a “plateau” even more intensely, because the body stops losing weight at the same rate it did previously. It actually HAS to, as it adapts to the present energy output, and needs a change, or it needs rest!

I suggest working in cycles. It’s a good way to keep track of energy output and getting over plateaus on a regular basis. This means that for 3-4 weeks you work within a measured slower pace, for instance yoga or pilates-style training, with long, slow cardio sessions. Then you progress to 3 weeks of resistance and strength training in the style of my DVDs, together with jogging. The last cycle is 3 weeks of fast, short sprints, intense plyo strength training sessions in the style of the new Reebok BootCamp DVD. That should do it. When you are done with 12 weeks of training like that, start over again, slow yourself down, and then pick up the speed. It will leave your body always sort of “surprised”! Also, of course, diet is a major factor. If you sign up for my newsletter, you will receive healthy food recipes and a guide in your inbox!

Is your lower back hurting from a lot of exercise and NOT enough stretching of your posterior chain? Gluteus, hammies, calves? When these muscles are tight, after a lot of exercising, the back can feel achy and tight, too! Try it and let me know what happens…

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