Frequently Asked Questions
- What exactly are body weight exercises?
- If I try MYB, what results can I expect and when?
- How long does it take to do the MYB workout?
- Is this program safe?
- Can anyone participate in this program?
- At what level should I start if I already exercise?
- Can MYB work alsongside another program?
- What if I have a current injury?
What exactly are body weight exercises?
Any exercise that uses only your body, the floor and gravity for resistance.
If I try MYB, what results can I expect and when?
If you are looking for more energy in your daily life, that starts happening in the first week of the MYB workout.
If you want to be stronger and start feeling better doing everyday movements like climbing out of bed, getting in and out of your car, walking up stairs, picking up suitcases or your children, this also starts during the first week of the program, though it really kicks in after the first three to four weeks.
Changes in appearance, posture, a smaller waist, stronger joints, shapelier muscles, and significant weight loss (given, of course, that you stick to a healthy diet) start showing up around the four- to six-week mark. If you want significantly more motivation to live healthy, that typically appears in ten to 16 weeks, but we often see it happen in the first three to four weeks.
These are general guidelines. Everybody – and every body – is different. But the bottom line is that this program works for everyone, every time, and often much faster than you expect.
Of course there are many factors to consider when gauging your progress. Things like consistent overeating, lack of discipline on off days, negative thinking, ignoring symptoms of over-training, ignoring pain that is destructive, and increased levels of stress can sideline even the most enthusiastic exerciser. But by controlling and managing most or all of these factors, you can be successful and see results you want. Stay positive, stay consistent, and you will stay strong!
How long does it take to do the MYB workout?
The time-efficient nature of this program is one of its best attributes. In its entirety, you can complete a MYB workout in as few as 15 minutes, though most people will finish in about half an hour.
There is no equipment needed, no special clothing required, no setup or breakdown time, and even the warm-up is fast. MYB is comprehensive: it simultaneously trains and improves your strength, flexibility, cardiovascular system and joint strength. It increases stability, which makes you more injury resistant. All the while it feeds your motivation to continue.
Is this program safe?
If you follow the guidelines in the routine and listen to your body, you will have no trouble progressing through the exercises safely. Body weight exercises do not require external resistance like dumbbells, barbells or weight machines, and without the added variable of a piece of equipment, it is much easier to control your movements. But remember that the body must be challenged in order to see progress. This means stepping out of your comfort zone and pushing the envelope with smart training.
Smart training includes well-designed exercises with good instruction and multiple levels of progression insuring a steady rate of improvement. The MYB program is exceptionally safety conscious, yet it still allows you to progress at your own pace. Safety happens when we understand our limitations, know our bodies, and strive to make them better.
Can anyone participate in this program?
Our routine benefits all populations, including seniors, beginning exercisers, recreational athletes, and those recovering from injuries. Children will enjoy this program as well.
MYB is for anyone who wants to improve their health. This program is not for people who cannot get down and up off the floor on their own.
At what level should I start if I already exercise?
Start at level one, even if you’re in great shape. These exercises are more challenging than they look. Unlike most exercise programs that address strength or cardiovascular fitness, this program does both – and in a big way. Plus, MYB challenges balance, flexibility, and joint stability. This program, especially the lunge stations, can cause some serious soreness if you advance to quickly.
Can MYB work alongside another program?
Yes. This program is designed either to stand alone or to augment the exercise program you are already doing. MYB focuses on developing a strong foundation for anything else you do, including other exercises. One real benefit of the MYB routine is that post-workout recovery is quick. That’s because with MYB you minimize your risk of tissue damage, which is usually caused by using heavy weights. So you can merge MYB with your favorite form of exercise with minimal risk of over-training.
What if I have a current injury?
Of course, you should consult your physician before starting any program. But one interesting thing about MYB is that these exercises are used in injury rehabilitation. It is all about starting at a level where you can be assured of achieving success, mastering it, and then – only then – moving on to the next level.
We’ve all been injured at one time or another. It’s how we address those injuries that make the difference. MYB focuses on some key principles of injury prevention and recovery, including the fact that providing an injured area with positive stimulus vital to aiding the cycle of injury and recovery.
Each of the exercises in this program stimulates joints, muscles, bones, and even the mind, in a multi-dimensional approach. By working your body from the inside out, the muscles that protect your back, hold you upright, and stabilize your joints are addressed first and foremost. Not only are the exercises injury-sensitive, they have been developed in a sequence that increases body awareness and core strength as they progress. MYB is designed to accommodate differing levels of ability through graduated degrees of difficulty. You work at your own level, build on each success and, ultimately, improve upon your current fitness level.
Once again: if an injury causes severe joint pain, loss of mobility or increased swelling, it is recommended that you consult with a physician or physical therapist before engaging in any exercise routine. But remember: we were made to move, so we need to do just that. Move.