The second week of the Challenge is behind us.  It wasn’t too different from the first, although there was a shift to fewer reps and slower tempos.

I’m starting to enjoy the different “Power Boost” plyometric exercises.  I’ve done plenty of plyo moves before, although my ex-trainer typically put them AFTER the traditional strength training moves.  Nothing like doing – say – several 30 second speed sets of weighted bench jumps while your legs are still shaking from squats, leg curls, walking lunges and calf presses, eh?  I got a lot out of it (including a few bruises), but it was NOT fun.  By contrast, the “Challenge” puts the plyo moves first.  Thus, although the intent is serious, the  jumping and hopping around has a playful aspect to it.  It’s energizing, and a nice way to start a workout.

We introduced the Prowler into our “Play Heart” routine, this week… that sucka’s a howl.  We picked up some 45 and 10 pound plates for it over at Sports Authority to add resistance.  With just the right amount of weight, pushing it around is a whole body workout.  I’d say it’s almost comparable to a deadlift in the number of muscle groups involved (the difference is that it doesn’t do anything per se for grip strength).  Sure does get your heart rate up, too… Good stuff.

The neighbors think we’re nuts, though.  We push it back and forth on the street in front of our house (we live in a residential area without much traffic), so we’ve attracted a few stares and questions from passersby.  But this doesn’t bother me, though - I’m used to having people watch me work out.

The good thing about doing this program is that it’s making me look at areas I’ve slighted in my previous workouts: agility, coordination, functional strength/endurance.  I wouldn’t want to train like this in perpetuity, but so far, I’m liking the change.

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