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Tabitha Transformed her Body and her Family’s Health

October 6, 2014 by Leave a Comment

 

Tabitha Venus Contest 11 (2)

Tabitha’s stunning transformation during Venus Contest

Tabitha placed in our recent VT11 Venus Transformation Contest.

She did a phenomenal job, and persisted through some hardships. Her results are wonderful!

Tabitha before and after

Tabitha with her husband before and after

Tabitha and her daughter before and after

Tabitha and her daughter before and after

Here is what Tabitha had to say in her own words

I started my weight loss journey in Jan 2012 with my husband. I did not know about Venus at the time and just counted calories using MFP. By April of that year I gave up. I had only lost 15 pounds and my husband had lost over 30! I was so frustrated because it didn’t even seem like he tried and the weight just fell off, but I was constantly hungry and felt deprived! By 2013, I had gained all the weight back so I decided to try Weight Watchers. I could have all the fruit I wanted so I wouldn’t be hungry on this system right? By July of 2013 I had gained an additional 12 pounds! I was now the heaviest I had ever been. I knew I needed to do something, but just dreaded being hungry ALL the time. My husband had joined Adonis that year and joined one of the contests. I was very skeptical and was sure that skipping breakfast and only eating 1000 calories was very unhealthy! When I saw his after photos I was blown away! He finally convinced me to just give Venus a try. I signed up December 31st and started in January.

The most surprising thing to me was that I could skip breakfast and I was fine! By skipping breakfast I had more calories for later in the day and I wasn’t starving by lunchtime like I normally was when I would eat breakfast! The 1000 calories that I was worried about? Now I routinely only eat 800-850 and I feel just fine! I don’t go to bed hungry. I feel full and even save enough calories to have a bowl of ice cream before bed most nights!

The workouts have been the most challenging aspect of my journey. Six weeks in I started having pain in my knees. I had to completely cut out ALL leg exercises from my routine! I was so discouraged, but the ladies in the forum kept me going and gave me ideas for alternate exercises.  I still can’t do most of the exercises, but through the forum and my physical therapist I have enough alternatives to get a good leg workout! I have learned that if you truly want something you will find a way! You just have to keep a positive outlook and keep going! If one way doesn’t work then try something else. Eventually you will find what works for you!

This has been a true lifestyle change for my entire family. We no longer shop the way we used to, we find ourselves primarily shopping along the outside aisles of the store…no more boxed & processed food. We weigh & measure everything we eat. We very rarely eat fast food anymore and we don’t even miss it! Even my 11 year old daughter has started making healthier food choices (on her own) and she has started working out with me in the evenings! We have started cycling has a family and have gone several times over the summer. We have truly changed our lives thanks to Venus and Adonis!

 

Tabitha's family has healthy new habits

Tabitha’s family has healthy new habits

 

Tabitha and her daughter working out together

Tabitha and her daughter working out together

Tabitha loves the online Venus community

You can find Tabitha active in the Venus community and read her blog!

Tabitha is active in the Venus community

Tabitha is active in the Venus community

 

 

Here is more about Tabitha

How did you find the Venus Factor?

Through my husband! We started our weight loss journey together in 2012. I gave up 3 months in, but he kept going. In 2013 he found Adonis and joined a contest. He placed 10th!!! I was very skeptical of the Adonis program when he started…skipping breakfast, eating low calories…it couldn’t be healthy…right? When I saw his after pictures I started to get curious. Finally at the end of December I thought “What have I got to lose?” and signed up!


What aspect of the program was most beneficial to you?

The science behind how to lose weight is what I found most beneficial. As I read the weight loss manual I kept thinking “Wow! This is what I did wrong before! That is why I was always hungry, etc.” I have tried counting calories before but I failed. In 2012 I used MFP to count calories. I stayed below 1200 every day. However, I always felt hungry and after 3 months I just couldn’t maintain it anymore.

When I saw that my deficit calories with Venus was 1000 I thought there is no way I can do that! I was starving eating 1200 with MFP how could I possibly eat 1000 or less? With Venus I learned that eating breakfast was my first mistake. I skip breakfast every day now and I don’t even miss it! My second mistake was eating low every day! Having the maintenance day has really helped. If I am craving something through the week I just wait and eat it on my maintenance day! I never feel deprived and most days I only eat between 800-850 calories and I never go to bed hungry!


Did you like the Venus workout?

I love the workouts! I have never lifted weights before in my life! When I tried to lose weight in 2012 I would walk every day. After a while though that got to be really BORING! I tried workout videos, but gasping and panting for breath after 10 minutes is not my idea of fun! With the Venus workout it is different every day and while I sweat and sometimes breathe hard I never feel like I am dying! 


Which workout(s) did you use?

I have stuck with the Phase 1 workout. I have had to modify them a lot due to some knee problems though. 


What kept you motivated?

The online community has been my biggest motivator. Reading all the stories and seeing the pictures of all the successful Venus women has given me goals to work toward. Every time I have felt discouraged or would have given up someone is always there to encourage or give advice. 


Do you have a particular style of eating?

I really don’t other than that I tend to eat the same foods every day. I find that it is easier because I know the calorie counts in the foods I eat. We have 5-6 meals that we rotate out for dinners.

 

Did you use the Undulating protocol?  If so how did it work for you and did you make any modifications?

I did not use the undulating protocol. Through this journey I have learned a few things about myself. I am very much a type A person and will try to make things more difficult than they are and if I feel that I am not doing something perfect then I will quit…rather than risk failure! Knowing this about myself I decided to just keep things simple and only track my calories and protein. Trying to track carbs, fat, and work out percentages was just too complicated for me and I knew that I would not stick to that and would give up.


Did you use any supplements?

No.


Did you use the online community and how was that experience?

Very frequently! I love the online community and find myself checking that site before Facebook even! I have several women that I follow regularly and I hope to meet a lot of them one day face to face!   


Did you find support with friends and family?

I have! I don’t know if I could have stuck with the workouts if my husband was not getting up with me at 5am to workout as well! 


What was the hardest obstacle to conquer?

The hardest obstacle for me was the workouts! A few weeks in I started having pain in my knees. After several visits to the Orthopedic, x-rays, MRI’s, etc. the Dr said he had no idea what was causing the pain. However, my Physical Therapist has been working with me and I now have an arsenal of alternate exercises and the pain has gotten better. They are not completely healed and maybe never will be, but at least I can still strengthen! This lesson has taught me that there is always a way!


How did you feel about your final pictures?

I couldn’t believe it! I still look at them and say “Is that really me?” I am very proud of what I have accomplished this year!


Is this a lifestyle you will continue?

Definitely!!! This journey has been a complete lifestyle change for my entire family! We now spend our free time being active. We have started cycling and try to go every chance we get now. I have more energy and feel more alert. I never want to go back to the old me! I want to change my family tree and pass this healthy lifestyle on to my child and have her eventually pass it on to her children!


What is your best advice for other Venus’s?

Always keep a positive attitude! The thoughts you tell yourself really matter! If you are constantly telling yourself that you are weak, you can’t resist high calorie foods, you are tired and can’t workout, etc. You will believe it and set yourself up for failure!

Instead speak positive words or words of life to yourself! Even if you don’t “feel” beautiful, strong, or worth it, tell yourself that you are and eventually you will believe it! Surround yourself with positive people. You don’t need people in your life that only speak negative things into your soul! These people will tear you down not build you up. There really is power in your thoughts and words!

 

Tabitha’s Metrics Results

Note: The Adonis Golden Ratio is the men’s version of our fat loss and muscle building program. Many Venus’s husbands and boyfriends use this program. We are starting to get requests for a “couple’s contest” so if there is enough interest please let me know and we can roll that idea around.

Tabitha lost 14.0 lbs and 2.5 inches of both her waist and hips during the 12 week contest!

 

Note: The Adonis Golden Ratio is the men’s version of our fat loss and muscle building program. Many Venus’s husbands and boyfriends use this program. We are starting to get requests for a “couple’s contest” so if there is enough interest please let me know and we can roll that idea around.

 

Isn't Tabitha a beautiful Venus?

Isn’t Tabitha a beautiful Venus?

 

You can listen to Tabitha’s story here:

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: Contest, Diet, transformation, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

How about a life in a new and improved body at age 45?

September 15, 2014 by Leave a Comment
At age 45 Sue has discovered life in a new and improved body!

At age 45 Sue has discovered life in a new and improved body!

 

Sue placed 10th in our VT11 Venus Transformation Contest

 

Here’s what Sue has to say in her own words:

I discovered the Venus Factor program in March 2014 and really liked the structure of it and the community.  I weighed 172 pounds and while I’m 5’10” tall, excess weight on me is still fat and looks horrid.  I took some photos at that point (I have included them to show my whole journey), just so I could look back and see where I’d come from.  This would be at least the seventh time that I would have lost over 20 pounds in the last 15 years, so my struggle isn’t so much in losing the weight (I can be dedicated for a period), but in the maintaining and keeping it off.  The addition of getting older (I’m 45) and having recently started HRT were added bonuses in the equation!

The thing that struck a chord in me with Venus was the simplicity in the overriding diet philosophy – I can eat anything I want, provided I am accountable and responsible for it.  And I can bank up my calories for special events.  I LIKE THAT!  It makes the whole thing so much more manageable .. and livable!  I also loved that I didn’t need to plan my own workouts .. just print it out and go do it.  Brain interference = Zero.

From March to May 2014 I followed Venus, although since I do karate at a fairly high level and train regularly, I was more intermittent than structured with the workouts.  I lost about 15 pounds during that time and then decided to enter the contest.  At the same time, I also entered an adventure race, which is trail running, mountain biking and kayaking in the Australian Blue Mountains, outside of Sydney.  I needed to train for this as I hadn’t run or ridden a bike in over 30 years!  I was also training for my first dan black belt grading in karate, which I achieved at the end of June.  So I was getting quite a bit of varied training but all the extra load then caused my knee to start giving me grief. The doctor has since said I have Osteoarthritis in both knees, but I’m working with a physiologist to manage that, as I’m not willing to give up any of my training.

In the middle of the contest period, I got sick.  I tried for a while to control my diet, but my body was just CRAVING carbs.  I would go DAYS where the thought of bread and butter and honey was at the forefront of my mind!  Eventually I gave in.  I also didn’t train in any way for about three or four weeks.  I was disappointed in my lack of progress, given the race and the contest had end dates that were fast approaching.  I made the decision then that I would not be where I wanted to be at the end of the contest, so I would not get a professional photographer.  I would still take the pictures myself AND submit them .. since I committed to myself up front that I would.

Well, race day came and went and it was a blast!  About 17 miles covered and we didn’t stop for over four-and-a-half hours.  I was completed exhausted by the end .. but I did it!  Only one week to go to the end of the Venus contest from there.  I had incorporated two Eat-Stop-Eat style fasts into my week a while ago and since I was under instruction to completely rest my knee (no training in the last week for me) and I had work commitments and meetings that would make the water loading of Slim in 7 problematic, I decided to just eat super-clean, in calorific deficit and do an extra day fasting.  The result was astonishing!  Not only did I make my Venus Index metrics on weight and waist, I went under them!  Unbelievable.  The photos, while very ordinary quality, do show the incredible transformation and I couldn’t be happier with the hard evidence in front of me.  And yes, I am KICKING myself for not going professional for them!

Aside from losing weight using the Venus Factor program, I have learned a couple of other really valuable things from this experience.  During the time I was sick and recovering and also not training, I learned how to relax on the program and how to maintain – which is HUGE for me.  I also learned how much I can change my body in just one week when I want to, and how vital diet is.  I discovered through the Venus community that maintaining a healthy and fit body isn’t the effortless, anything-goes lifestyle that I’ve always assumed .. that healthy, fit people have to actively maintain their bodies and take responsibility for it.  And I’ve found that while I don’t need to count calories (I haven’t for most of the contest period), I DO like to weigh myself every day to keep myself accountable .. and motivated!

Thank you for the Venus program, the incentive of this contest and the incredible community you’ve built.  I am so happy with myself and my journey and with my new starting point .. and I can’t WAIT to see what else I can do with this old bod!

 

Sue lost 15 pounds in 12 weeks in spite of some setbacks.

Sue lost 15 pounds in 12 weeks in spite of some setbacks.

 

Sue is active in the online forum

Sue is an energetic, fun, and super supportive member of our community where you can find her often giving an encouraging word to others.

We have a very popular thread in the forum called “The last 10 pounds” because this seems to be a very difficult part of the process and requires much patience.  This is the time where your food intake needs to be almost as precise as a lab experiment.  It requires tremendous discipline and consistency.

Here is a sample of the fun Sue brought to our community right from the start:

Shaeshae, I’m with you .. have just been wandering through the Forum halls and came across this thread of awesomeness!!

Hi guys! I’m down to within my last 10lbs now, which is quite exciting. The whole process has worked REALLY well – dropping 19lbs and 3.5″ off my waist in just over 9 weeks. ESE has REALLY helped me to manage the whole process and it will be an invaluable tool in maintaining things going forward, as will the VF education on how much food really makes up my maintenance level.

I can already see me doing another program targeted at muscle and muscle shape development once I reach my goal of 145lbs (I’m 5’10”) .. and I’m excited about that already!

I have a grading coming up (I do karate) at the end of June and I’m hoping to be selected to attempt for my first dan black belt! I plan to be at or very close to my goal weight by then and already into the strength improvement side of things .. will feel wonderful doing a 4 hour grading and not feeling bogged down with excess weight or lack of strength or fitness. For the first time I look forward to the challenge with only excitement and no underlying feelings of dread or fear!

You guys are awesome, the way you share your experience with newbies like me. And you make us feel like no question is too stupid (even if it might be!). Thanks so much!!

Note:  ESE is the acronym for the book Eat Stop Eat by Brad Pilon.

 

Sue's before and after data.

This is only a small window of time in Sue’s overall weight loss journey.

 

Note:  The Adonis Golden Ratio is the men’s version of our fat loss and muscle building program.  Many Venus’s husbands and boyfriends use this program. We are starting to get requests for a “couple’s contest” so if there is enough interest please let me know and we can roll that idea around.

 

Sue keeps an online blog in our private community

Sue’s blog in the community is named “Life in a new and improved body” and yes, that is exactly what she has found with the Venus Factor!

After just a few months in the community Sue posted a picture in her blog to share some very wise words:

What are the most powerful words in the universe?

The ones you use to talk to yourself.

Talk with love.

 

Sue is an energetic and helpful personality in our online community.

Sue is an energetic and helpful personality in our online community.

 

Sue’s favorite supplements

Sue uses a variety of health supplements which she talks about in the podcast.  Among them she likes some of the BioTrust products.  She likes the probiotic and the frosted oatmeal protein cookies.  She has the IC-5 and the AbsorbMax and would like to incorporate those into her regimen soon.

 

You can listen to her story and words of wisdom here:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: Interview, transformation, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

VT9 12-Week Transformation Winners Announced

December 6, 2013 by Leave a Comment

The VT9 results are in and the transformations and final pictures are simply amazing!

One thing I love about the focus for women in the Venus program is “The focus is proportions and shape (rather than weight loss at all costs or building muscle like a guy)” – John Barban.

Congratulations to everyone who entered and finished!  This took hard work on the part of everyone and it shows.

Here are the winners:

First Place – Michelle

"The best thing about Venus in my opinion is that while it is definitely challenging, it is not impossible to stick with because it is not so extreme that the majority could not sustain it. And what helps with making it so easy to sustain is the variety."

“The best thing about Venus in my opinion is that while it is definitely challenging, it is not impossible to stick with because it is not so extreme that the majority could not sustain it. And what helps with making it so easy to sustain is the variety.”

Second Place – Anna

"Venus changed my life because it changed my habits. My everyday routine became my way of living. I feel very strong and healthy now and I have lots of energy."

“Venus changed my life because it changed my habits. My everyday routine became my way of living. I feel very strong and healthy now and I have lots of energy.”

Third Place – Lou Ann

"Venus has taught me to live, not just diet. It isn’t always easy, but it is beautifully simple: eat whatever I want within my calories, and lift weights. The most monumental mental shift I’ve made is no longer having an “all or nothing” mentality, meaning I don’t punish myself emotionally and then blow off the rest of the day/week/month because I screwed up. I can LIVE and ENJOY my life as a Venus!"

“Venus has taught me to live, not just diet. It isn’t always easy, but it is beautifully simple: eat whatever I want within my calories, and lift weights. The most monumental mental shift I’ve made is no longer having an “all or nothing” mentality, meaning I don’t punish myself emotionally and then blow off the rest of the day/week/month because I screwed up. I can LIVE and ENJOY my life as a Venus!”

Fourth Place – Danielle

"I found the key to my success this time was John's secret of "never let them see you sweat". I never complained about dieting or bragged about hitting the gym 5-6 days/week. Instead I made it a personal journey and made sure to still enjoy social eating with my friends (within reason)."

“I found the key to my success this time was John’s secret of “never let them see you sweat”. I never complained about dieting or bragged about hitting the gym 5-6 days/week. Instead I made it a personal journey and made sure to still enjoy social eating with my friends (within reason).”

Fifth Place -Valerie

"I have tried so many diets over the past 15 years and I did initially lose weight on them, but I would get to a certain point to where I would stop losing weight and eventually the weight came back on. With the Venus Index, I finally can see my body changing shape, getting stronger, and feeling healthy. Now that I am at the end of the contest, I can truthfully say that I feel like I finally have control over my body to shape it through a sensible diet and exercise program."

“I have tried so many diets over the past 15 years and I did initially lose weight on them, but I would get to a certain point to where I would stop losing weight and eventually the weight came back on. With the Venus Index, I finally can see my body changing shape, getting stronger, and feeling healthy. Now that I am at the end of the contest, I can truthfully say that I feel like I finally have control over my body to shape it through a sensible diet and exercise program.”

Sixth Place – Heidi

"With a steely resolve and a take no prisoners attitude those first 4 weeks flew by in textbook perfection and with them weight and cms flew off me so fast I was certain I'd be skeletal before the 12 weeks were done. It was exhilarating, I didn't hate my body anymore and when I pulled on trousers, I could button them up whilst continuing to breathe normally."

“With a steely resolve and a take no prisoners attitude those first 4 weeks flew by in textbook perfection and with them weight and cms flew off me so fast I was certain I’d be skeletal before the 12 weeks were done. It was exhilarating, I didn’t hate my body anymore and when I pulled on trousers, I could button them up whilst continuing to breathe normally.”

Seventh Place – Nadjia

"One of the best things about being a Venus is the access to the community. I am convinced that the biggest part of my success was the support from other Venus women. It would be easy not to put myself out there or make myself accountable to these women, but I would not have been successful. I would say to anyone wanting to make the most out of this program to use the tools that are provided. Take advantage of the forums, podcast, emails, and don’t be afraid to ask questions!"

“One of the best things about being a Venus is the access to the community. I am convinced that the biggest part of my success was the support from other Venus women. It would be easy not to put myself out there or make myself accountable to these women, but I would not have been successful. I would say to anyone wanting to make the most out of this program to use the tools that are provided. Take advantage of the forums, podcast, emails, and don’t be afraid to ask questions!”

  Eighth Place – Stephanie

Stephanie BnA

“I appreciate the look that other Venus women have, but I don’t try to look like them because my body is different. It’s all about the best shape I can achieve. Although my 12-week contest is behind me, my journey isn’t over yet. I plan to be a Venus gal for life. I feel wonderful and I am so proud of myself for taking on this challenge. If I can do it, anyone can! “

Ninth Place – Melissa

"I now weigh 142 pounds and it just keeps coming off! The compliments come from people every day. I am a more confident and outgoing woman now. I do not want this journey to end! I will continue to strive toward my Venus Index Measurements. I love the Venus Factor program! Anybody can do this! Thank you for changing my life forever! :)"

“I now weigh 142 pounds and it just keeps coming off! The compliments come from people every day. I am a more confident and outgoing woman now. I do not want this journey to end! I will continue to strive toward my Venus Index Measurements. I love the Venus Factor program! Anybody can do this! Thank you for changing my life forever! :)”

Tenth Place -Rhea

"At 54 and four kids later, I decided I wanted to actually complete one full 12-week program. The “nutritional piece” of most programs I own (30) have too many rules. Being a recovering bulimic, rules can trigger my perfectionism. Now I’m the size I was in college, pre-marriage and pre-children! I never thought I could do it without being active in my disease. Amazingly, I feel sexier than I ever have, which my husband is thrilled about."

“At 54 and four kids later, I decided I wanted to actually complete one full 12-week program. The “nutritional piece” of most programs I own (30) have too many rules. Being a recovering bulimic, rules can trigger my perfectionism. Now I’m the size I was in college, pre-marriage and pre-children! I never thought I could do it without being active in my disease. Amazingly, I feel sexier than I ever have, which my husband is thrilled about.”

 

Cover Girl Naomi

Naomi Clark - Venus Cover Girl

Naomi Clark – Venus Cover Girl

 

Cover Girl Liss

Liss Graham - Venus Cover Girl

Liss Graham – Venus Cover Girl

 

Cover Girl Jenny

Jenny Weaks - Venus Cover Girl

Jenny Weaks – Venus Cover Girl

Filed Under: Contest, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Another Venus and Adonis Power Couple; Lourdes and James

October 28, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Today we are honored to listen to Lourdes Cota who placed thrid in the Eighth Venus Index Transformation Contest.

Lourdes got the fitness level she always wanted at age 47.

Lourdes got the fitness level she always wanted at age 47.

 

Lourdes before and after the contest.

Lourdes before and after the contest.

 

Changing your body composition at age 47 is no trivial task, especially for a female.

Changing your body composition at age 47 is no trivial task, especially for a female.

 

Lourdes health issues motivated her to get fit. And she did a phenomenal job!

Lourdes health issues motivated her to get fit. And she did a phenomenal job!

 

Read what Lourdes wrote about her experience with the Venus Factor:

 

A little about me, I am a 47 year old, single mother, with two wonderful kids. I work a full time job as a Quality control engineer and try to take life one day at a time. I started working out 4 years ago, but had a scary incident occur when I passed out during one of my workouts.

Opening my eyes and having strangers standing around me, with no understanding as to what had just happened was extremely frightening. Upon visiting my doctor, I was told that I had Bradycardia, or in layman’s terms, a slow heartbeat.

To combat the Bradycardia, I had to have surgery where a doctor surgically implanted a pacemaker under my skin, on the left side of my chest, just below the collarbone.

As you can imagine, having to have a pacemaker implanted in your body, connected to your heart, makes you think about life, your future, your health, your children and my list of concerns went on and on. Not to mention, the visible scar is a constant reminder. All of this was very overwhelming and I became very cautious in everything I did.

Armed with a basic understanding of the fundamentals of wellness and their value in living a long life, I always ate high quality nutritious foods, as such I was relatively thin. But, also knowing my cardiovascular system needed attention, especially now, I tried to push my fears aside and began exercising again.

To be honest, some days, just getting in to the car was a challenge, as I was fearful that I would have a repeat of the day I passed out.

For many years I went to the gym, only going through the motions, lifting the same (way too light) amount of weight, doing the same (non-challenging) exercises, the same (boring) cardio, all in the same order, day in and day out. UGH!!!!!

Upon meeting my boyfriend James Tonda, (who introduced me to the Venus Index) he observed my angst about the many things I listed previously.

After learning of my condition, he explained to me that Bradycardia is not considered dangerous and that quite often athletes have Bradycardia just from working out as hard as they do. He explained that the heart, much like the rest of our body can adapt to exercise stress and a fit persons heart doesn’t have to work as hard as say someone who is out of shape or not as fit, thus creating a lower pulse.

To say I felt like a huge weight was lifted off of me is an understatement. Finally, I was seeing a beacon of light that all of my panic was unwarranted and I could safely start living my life again!

Upon getting back to the gym, after the many years of redundant, non-challenging workouts, I expressed my frustration that my body just doesn’t seem to respond to exercise, even though I went to the gym regularly.

Well, interestingly enough, I was given the same example by James about the body’s ability to adapt to stress and since I had performed the same exercise regimen over and over with no increase or change in intensity, my body had adapted and as such, my body would not change unless my intensity did.

Enter Venus Index!!! James had been using the Adonis Index workouts and highly recommended I try out the women’s version, named Venus Index aka VI. The variety in the workouts and the level of intensity was incredible.

For the first time, I started noticing changes in my body that I liked very much. I even learned to appreciate the soreness that followed a grueling workout. (I included a picture of James and myself in my pictures)

Having the very user friendly and detailed Venus workout program, was like having a GPS to get from one destination to another, without having to worry about getting lost or taking unnecessary detours. I found myself feeling very empowered when going to the gym, versus the feeling of intimidation that I used to experience. Now I can confidently walk in to the free weight section of the gym and feel like I belong there!

I followed the VI workout exactly as it is presented. Not knowing a lot about nutrition, I leaned on James for his experience, but have paid close attention and understand much more than I ever have.

To make it easier as a couple, we both followed the same nutrition regimen with the only variation being our caloric intake. We both utilized the “Anything Goes Diet” by John Barban and fasting via “Eat Stop Eat” by Brad Pilon.

For example:

1. Monday thru Thursday, I followed the 16/8 fasting model, only eating 8 hours out of each day.

2. From Thursday at 7:00 PM to Friday at 7:00 PM I fasted for 24 hrs. eating dinner after working out Friday evening.

3. Saturday was Cheat Day, normally averaging 3000 calories, but a few of those days exceeded 4000 calories. Let me tell you that I am addicted to Gluten free Chicken Pesto Pizza followed by a slice of carrot cake? What an amazing feeling knowing that I can eat those weekly, with confidence that I will not get fat.

4. Sunday morning after breakfast at 7:00 AM, I fasted again for 24 hrs., starting the process all over Monday morning.

Supplementation wise: I use Muscle Milk “naturals” protein powder as a meal replacement when I’m at work, as my job does not always afford me the luxury of stopping to eat, BioTRUST “LeptiBurn” & “Pro-X10” and a generic Creatine – 5 grams two times/day. James used a pre-workout supplement (Extreme Rush) from Blue Star Nutraceuticals that he loved, but I did not because of my pacemaker and not knowing the effect it might have.

I purchased the Venus Index workout just as the 8th Venus Transformation contest aka VT8 was getting ready to start. Since James was entering the Adonis contest, I decided to take the plunge and go for it too!

What a blast this experience has been. From the amazing workouts, to learning about fasting, practicing posing and actually seeing muscles, shopping for and buying a Fitness posing suit, to actually posing for a professional photographer for my final pictures.

The Venus Lifestyle has given me the knowledge and confidence that I am now looking to compete in either the “physique” or “bikini” class at one of the local bodybuilding shows.

I am forever grateful and appreciative of everyone involved in the creation of the Venus & Adonis Index Lifestyles.

Regards
Lourdes “Candy” Cota

 

Lourdes and James; The Venus and Adonis power couple!

Lourdes and James; The Venus and Adonis power couple!

 

Lourdes interview with John is short and sweet, and it’s kind of nice to hear the voice of the winners in our community.  Please “like” it when you’re done:

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Filed Under: Muscle Growth, transformation, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Fourteen Years in the Gym and It Was Finally Venus That Gave Jessica the Shape She Always Wanted

October 21, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Today we are honored to listen to Jessica Young Carbonel who placed sixth in the Eighth Venus Index Transformation Contest.

She is the happiest and most comfortable with herself than she has ever been.

She is the happiest and most comfortable with herself than she has ever been.

 

When she saw her before pictures she knew she was going to have to work at this. She is very happy with the results.

When she saw her before pictures she knew she was going to have to work at this. She is very happy with the results.

 

Jessica found Venus changed her body and she felt the difference in the exercises.

Jessica found Venus changed her body and she felt the difference in the exercises.

 

Read what Jessica wrote about her experience with the Venus Factor:

My name is Jessica Young Carbonel. I am 27 years old and have worked/ been in a gym since I was 13 years old. For  the first time in 14 years that I’ve been able to say with confidence that I am happy with my lifestyle. Not just my  weight, my sizes, the way I feel but my entire life. My workouts have helped me and made a total difference in my  physique. Family have referenced my husband and I as “Models” and my jaw dropped!

I have adapted and stuck with the Adonis Workout program since January of 2013. I started with my husband who would  not stop playing podcasts and reading books called “Eat Stop Eat. ” Once I started I only stopped once when I  pinched a nerve from lack of stretching… (my fault I TOTALLY know better!)

My family has commented the most on my physique. For the first time I am buying sizes 0-4 when I have consistently  bought 8-12 ALL MY LIFE. I feel fantastic and am so motivated to keep up my work outs and my new lifestyle. I did  not utilize much of the forum/ community this time around but my husband and I are already planning on participating  in the next contest! Thank you for the introduction and the commitment for this new relationship. I am a devoted and  loyal follower!

 

The Venus Systems gave Jessica a complete lifestyle change, and she loves it.

The Venus Systems gave Jessica a complete lifestyle change, and she loves it.

 

Listen to Jessica’s interview here, and please “like” it when you’re done:

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Filed Under: Interview, Shape, transformation, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

How to Go From Obsessive Eating Back To Learning to Enjoy Food Again; Lea Ann Archer

October 14, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Today we are honored to listen to Lea Ann Archer who placed Eighth in the Eighth Venus Index Transformation Contest.

Lea Ann is quite pleased with her look after using the Venus Systems.

Lea Ann is quite pleased with her look after using the Venus Systems.

 

Lea Ann wanted to lose that hardest last couple pounds. She wasn't making progress with her trainer so she tried Venus and got her waist down to the Golden Ideal.

Lea Ann wanted to lose that hardest last couple pounds. She wasn’t making progress with her trainer so she tried Venus and got her waist down to the Golden Ideal, which is what she wanted.

 

She started the first workout 9 weeks before the contest and progressed to the final phase during the contest.

She started the first Venus workout nine weeks before the contest and progressed to the final phase during the contest.

 

Read what Lea Ann wrote about her experience with the Venus Factor:

The Venus Lifestyle to means freedom and a more relaxed approach toward my fitness.

I had been lifting weights, the past year and a half and for the first year with help from a trainer. With some results but not what I should have with the amount of work and effort that I was putting in. I was lifting on average 6 days a week with at least 5 days of cardio. I was also eating 5 to 6 meals a day. I had become obsessive about food. I was always thinking about what I was going to eat next and watching the clock waiting for 3 hours to pass for my next meal. I was eating when I wasn’t hungry because that’s what I was suppose to do to be able to reach my goal. But I was never getting any closer to the body that I wanted.

Now with the Anything Goes Diet I can be more relaxed when I eat. I still make healthy choices and I make sure that I get my protein in but if I want something I have it instead of depriving myself all the time. I’m more happy. I now know that if I eat a little more carbs that I will have some water gain but it will be gone in a couple of days.

Through the advice of people on the community I increased my workouts to 4 times a week and then I decided to take it to 5 times a week. I really started seeing results then.

I’m not where I want to be yet but I’m closer now than I have ever been thanks to VI and the community.

 

The Venus Systems and the Venus community are continuing to help Lea Ann achieve her goals.

The Venus Systems and the Venus community are continuing to help Lea Ann achieve her goals.

 

Listen to Lea Ann’s interview here, and please “like” it when you’re done:

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Filed Under: Contest, Diet, Muscle Growth, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

A Personal Trainer Becomes “The Girl with the Muscles”; Carlie Akerman

October 7, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Today we are honored to listen to Carlie Akerman who placed second in the Eighth Venus Index Transformation Contest.

Carlie is an inspiration to her friends.

Carlie is an inspiration to her friends.

 

Carlie said Venus taught her to properly lift weights. At first she was afraid lifting weights would make her too muscled, but now she is happy with her look and shape.

Carlie said Venus taught her to properly lift weights. At first she was afraid lifting weights would make her too muscled, but now she is happy with her look and shape.

 

Carlie's metrics before and after the 12 week contest.

Carlie’s metrics before and after the 12 week contest.

 

Read what Carlie wrote about her experience with the Venus Factor:

My name is Carlie Ackerman and I am 29 years old. I discovered and began the Venus at the end of March this year. Health and fitness has been an enormous part of my life for many years now. I’ve been training in many different ways and experimenting with diet and methods of reaching my goals to the best of my ability.

However I was never quite satisfied with the results and felt that physically I could push myself harder with the correct help and advice.

I found Venus through ‘Eat Stop Eat’ where I began to use fasting as part of my weight loss programme.

When I begin the Venus workouts, I found it not only exciting and educating but also it made me feel great! The high intensity, variety of exercises and change in my body made it addictive and I wanted to succeed. It was when I began to get results that I decided to compete. I have always been a healthy and conscious eater but that was something I also stepped up with Venus. I found that I became hungrier the more I trained but I continued to eat sensibly and appropriately in order to gain the best results with my training.

I did not look at my before pictures until just this week. When I saw them I couldn’t quite believe how I had changed.

The Venus has become a huge part of my life. For the first time in my life I have felt happy and comfortable in my own body and even more passionate about fitness then ever. Thanks to The Venus Index I am happy being me and very proud of my achievements.

Many Thanks,
Carlie Ackerman

 

"Lately someone referred to me as 'The girl with the muscles' and that made me smile"

“Lately someone referred to me as ‘The girl with the muscles’
and that made me smile”

 

Listen to Carlie’s interview here, and please “like” it when you’re done:

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Filed Under: Exercise, fat loss, Interview, Muscle Growth, Uncategorized, Weight training Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Kerry Takes Venus Workouts and the Community on the Road for Success

September 30, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Today we are honored to listen to Kerry Zeilinger who placed fourth in the Eighth Venus Index Transformation Contest.

 

I don't think Kerry realized that her true shape was an incredibly beautiful hour glass shape.

I don’t think Kerry realized that her true shape was an incredibly beautiful hour glass shape.

 

"I knew I was gaining weight but I didn't realize it was up to that level."

“I knew I was gaining weight but I didn’t realize it was up to that level.”
For most of us the 12 week contest is only a small window or one stop at a train station while en route to the rest of our life in our total transformation.

 

"I knew I had to either get a different career, or I had to find a way to take my fitness process on the road with me."

“I knew I had to either get a different career, or I had to find a way to take my fitness process on the road with me.”

 

Kerry got exactly to her Venus Ideal metrics at the end of the 12 week contest.

Kerry got down to her Venus Ideal metrics at the end of the 12 week contest.

 

Since Kerry was alone on the road with her job she relied on the Venus Community to be her family and support.

Since Kerry was alone on the road with her job she relied on the Venus Community to be her family and support.

 

Read what Kerry wrote about her experience with the Venus Factor:

In 2006, I took a position as a traveling consultant.  For the first year I was in the position, I  ate my meals like I was on a permanent vacation.  I gained 40 pounds in 1 year.  I was miserable at  that weight and knew I had to change how I travel.  I was still traveling so it was my attitude and  perception that had to change.

I made progress by the time I came to Venus but I was not doing the amount of strength training that  I needed to really scorch and sculpt my body.  My progress was extremely slow over the course of  years.  I was happy the weight was coming off but unhappy with the shape of my body.  I would always  say ‘Well I travel for a living’.  This is just once more excuse to add to the millions we hear every  day.

I decided that I was tired of making travel my excuse to getting to my desired body.  I really wasn’t  sure I would be able to speed up the process but I was going to give it my all.  Now that I have been  through the transformation, I realize traveling has advantages and disadvantages.

I love the Circuits and I think they actually fit my workout personality.  This meant I would stick  with strength training longer than I ever have.  I combined the Circuits with High Interval Intensity Training and Steady State cardio.  I  really think this was MY answer.  Part of it was having the deadline.  But, I also think my  perceptions have changed quite a bit since learning of Venus Index, Eat Stop Eat, and Anything Goes Diet.  The support on the  community is spectacular.  I don’t post as often as I like but I always know there will be support  and truly honest opinions when I need the truth.

 

Kerry's slick new shape now matches her slick car. I am partial to this particular car myself.

Now Kerry’s slick fun new shape matches her slick fun car. I am partial to this particular model car myself.

 

Listen to Kerry’s interview here, and please “like” it when you’re done:

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Filed Under: calories, Contest, transformation, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

How to Go from Good to Great at age 60; Interview with Lorraine

September 23, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Today we are honored to listen to Lorraine Gearhart who placed tenth in the Eighth Venus Index Transformation Contest.

 

Lorraine likes the Venus Systems for the health benefits.

Lorraine likes the Venus Systems for the health benefits.

 

It may not seem like a lot, but at almost 60 years old , juggling a business and elderly parents Lorraine managed to build muscle as well as lose fat in 12 weeks.

It may not seem like a lot, but at almost 60 years old and juggling a business and elderly parents Lorraine managed to build muscle as well as lose fat in 12 weeks.

 

Never have I EVER experienced the sheer amount of positive comments and reinforcement I've seen in the last month! People spontaneously talk to me about fitness, try to guess my age – delightful!

Never have I EVER experienced the sheer amount of positive comments and reinforcement I’ve seen in the last month!
People spontaneously talk to me about fitness, try to guess my age – delightful!

 

Read what Lorraine wrote about her experience with the Venus Factor:

How great can it be to become a Venus? More importantly, how can you get there without having to do  the impossible?

In my case, the Venus transformation promises seemed literally too good to be true. I’ve got siblings  who are crippled with osteoporosis, overweight, who’ve literally thrown in the towel on ever getting  themselves in any kind of shape ever again. I want to inspire them, I could see the incentives before  me.

I’ve got a loving husband who celebrates any achievement I make, and I sure didn’t want to arrive at  age 60 with a hunched back and no bone density. Of course, it’s rarely that easy. Getting nutrition  and training down to a science, well sure, but you need to balance that against being self-employed  and having a hundred obligations outside of simply improving and shaping a physique.

A real balancing act, complete with having parents into and out of the hospital ICU, a million other  obligations, and a need to stay motivated and focused at all times. That said, we’re celebrating a  real success, since in a mere 12 weeks I’ve managed to shed excess fat, shape up to more ideal  proportions, and add a good bit of lean mass.

Can I strut down the runway with girls half my age? Maybe. It’s only been 12 weeks after all. More  importantly, have I gained in health, have I achieved proper proportion, do people notice it and  complement me on it every day. OH, YEAH, BABY!!!

Never have I EVER experienced the sheer amount of positive comments and reinforcement I’ve seen in  the last month! People spontaneously talk to me about fitness, try to guess my age – delightful! Not  to mention, my Adonis really likes the changes I’ve made!

 

We're celebrating a real success, since in a mere 12 weeks I've managed to shed excess fat, shape up to more ideal proportions, and add a good bit of lean mass.

We’re celebrating a real success, since in a mere 12 weeks I’ve managed to shed excess fat, shape up to more ideal proportions, and add a good bit of lean mass.

 

Listen to Lorraine’s interview here, and please “like” it when you’re done:

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Filed Under: Exercise, Muscle Growth, Shape, Uncategorized, Weight training Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

There Is Always A Workaround to Achieve Fitness; Says Daphne, Mother of Ten

September 16, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Today we are honored to listen to Daphne Dyson who placed ninth in the 8th Venus Index Transformation Contest.

Daphne overcame a myriad of health issues and years of pregnancy to achieve her goals. She said there is always a workaround; there is always something you can do.

Daphne overcame a myriad of health issues and years of pregnancy to achieve her goals. She said there is always a workaround; there is always something you can do.

 

Eight pounds and four inches in twelve weeks is darn good progress for a female with all the adversity Daphne faced and hurdled. This is more the reality that most women face with weight loss.

Eight pounds and four inches in twelve weeks is darn good progress for a female with all the adversity Daphne faced and hurdled.
This is more the reality that most women face with weight loss.

 

I love Venus for the straightforward, scientifically-supported simplicity; do hard work in the gym this way, cut calories as is best for your body and lifestyle, and results will come.

“I love Venus for the straightforward, scientifically-supported simplicity; do hard work in the gym this way, cut calories as is best for your body and lifestyle, and results will come.”

 

Read what Daphne wrote about her experience with the Venus Factor:

The Venus lifestyle: diet to lose fat, workout to gain beauty and strength. Simple, uncluttered, fits into my life, I don’t have to fit my life in around my diet.

I no longer quietly dread that future moment when I give up trying to lose weight anymore, because I cannot keep up with the recommended 3 mini-meals + 3 snacks. With a large family I just do not  have that much time to plan out all those meals and snacks; when I tried to do so, inevitably I ended up overeating. Now, if I want to eat well with my family, I can. Then I quietly reduce my calories at other times, to keep within my weekly calorie budget. This is so different from the conventional way of looking at dieting as a daily thing!

With Venus Factor, there is an end to dieting, and soon I will be able to afford to eat more calories with pleasure and freedom. I am on this journey toward weight loss and strength and it is doable, and I now know deep down that maintaining will be doable too, once I reach my goals.

Aspiring to achieve my personal golden proportions gives me a concrete, measurable goal to work toward; the scale is no longer the only way to see if I am going to be more or less attractive while working so hard in the gym! Do I expect to achieve those numbers perfectly, especially the waist measurement? Well, no, I have had 10 kids after all!

I love Venus for the straightforward, scientifically-supported simplicity; do hard work in the gym this way, cut calories as is best for your body and lifestyle, and results will come.

Finding ESE and Venus Index have been life-changing for me.  Entering a transformation contest is something I’ve only thought about for a long time, that I did not have my diet under control was THE factor that held me back, and having the Golden Ration metrics gave me a wonderful look/goal to strive for.

I give you all my heart-felt gratitude for putting all your experience and  science-based information into a program that is straight-forward, and doable for the rest of my  life!  I hope Venus/Adonis continue to prosper, so that others can change their own lives, as my  family and I have!

Warmly,

Daphne Dyson

Daphne with her family when she was pregnant with number nine.

Daphne with her family when she was pregnant with number nine.  After this pregnancy Daphne reached her peak weight gain at 153 pounds which was devastating to an athlete like her.  It took approximately one year for her to get down to 138 pounds.  Daphne said Eat Stop Eat and the tools provided by the Venus system are helping sustain her progress.

 

Listen to Daphne’s interview here, and please “like” it when you’re done:

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Filed Under: Contest, transformation, Uncategorized, weight loss Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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