Making the Cut: The 30-Day Diet and Fitness Plan for the Strongest, Sexiest You Reviews

• A POWERHOUSE OF A DIET/FITNESS BOOK

  
  By A26B8PG5D68LQA on 2007-04-19
  True to form, Jillian comes through in a manner that is clear, concise, and no-nonsense. I lost 32 pounds utilizing her first book, "Winning by Losing." I've maintained my loss for almost a year, in part, by listening to her weekly radio show. She won my loyalty long ago, because this woman KNOWS HER STUFF! So when I heard about her new book, I decided I was ready to dive back in and go for "the cut." I've lost 5 additional pounds in 8 days. I'm so jazzed -- thank you, Jillian!
  
  

• Requires Access to a Gym

  
  By A2FHZD6E0SXM4D on 2007-05-17
  This book wasn't very helpful to me because I don't have access to a gym and a lot of the equipment that is required to do the exercises in this book. It would have been great if it could be done at home, or at home without gym equipment.
  
  

• Welcome the challenge!

  
  By A11ML8HHS9U250 on 2007-04-18
  I just got the book 3 days ago. I am only on day three, but the information in this book is eye opening. Jillian covers everything from hormones and metabolism, supplements like hoodia, even the master cleanse.
  
  I saw the review below and can't help but wonder if that person actually read the book. There ARE in fact 3 separate 30 day menu plans. One for each oxidizer type (slow, balanced, and fast). For that reason, 1 plan will ask for non-fat cottage cheese and another will ask for low fat. Those two ingredients are not on the same meal plan and they are also on separate grocery lists (of which there are 3, one for fast, balanced, and slow).
  
  Jillian goes on to explain that the recipes make up to 10 - 12 servings for the following reasons: Most women don't want to make separate meals for their families. Also, the book allots each reader with and individualized calorie allowance. As some of the recipes are very low calorie, some people doing the plan will require up to 5 servings of each recipe. Last, if you are like me, always on the run and finding it difficult to cook every night this book will solve your problem. This way you will have healthy food prepared when you are pressed for time. All that said, she specifically mentions in the book that if you want to make less food you can simply cut the ingredients in half and the meal will still come out perfectly making half the servings.
  
  With regard to the workouts: There are over 100 separate exercises in the book and less then 10 of them require gym equipment. The workouts seem predominantly designed to utilize body weight exercises (no gym required).
  
  The workouts do seem tough, that is for sure. However, you can easily modify the exercises to accomodate your fitness level. Jillian offers over 8 variations of plank exercise, 11 different variations of lunges, 8 variations of push ups, and 8 variations of squats just to name a few. For those that don't have a treadmill accessible she offers up over 10 different types of cardio intervals that require no equipment like mountain climbers, butt kicks, squat jacks etc.
  
  As for not being able to tackle weeks 3 and 4 of the workouts on day 1, I think that is the whole point. In order to lose weight quickly you must progress your fitness level quickly. For example, the contestants on Biggest Loser couldn't walk around the block on day 1 and by day 7 she seems to have them running miles and doing push ups. This is why she instructs you to follow the plan religiously. I assume that by doing the workouts from week 1 and week 2 you will be ready to take on weeks 3 and 4, hence the books promise of delivering "the best shape of your life".
  
  I love Jillian. I have been a fan of hers sine season one of Biggest Loser. I listen to her radio show religiously and trust her advice. I use her dvd's and have gotten amazing results. I love this book so far and although it's no walk in the park, I welcome the challenge.
  
  

• This is the single best book you can buy!

  
  By A2WEA0UYAJ1QWC on 2008-03-04
  If you are serious about dropping weight and keeping it off, this is the book for you.
  
  If you want to know about fitness and nutrition, as well as get the encouragement you need (not to mention become highly motivated), then this is also the book for you.
  
  And, if you're tired of all the failed attempts, "magic pills," goofy schemes, and gimmicks at "knocking off" some pounds, AND you are committed and willing to work your arse off, then this is definitely the book for you.
  
  My wife and I have three decades of fitness and nutition "under our belts," but we had reached the point where we couldn't get rid of some "extra poundage." Then we found "Making the Cut" and everything changed for the better. We "followed the steps" in this book and did everything exactly as Jillian outlined for thirty days - the results were amazing and incredible!
  
  You have to be prepared to not eat fast food, to cook your own meals, and to do exercise "movements" and circuits that, at first, seem diabolical.
  
  In the long run and, really, in the 30 days as outlined in this book, you will see and feel dramatic changes in your weight, how you feel, and your overall perspective in life. I lost over 15 pounds in 30 days and my wife lost 11 pounds in 30 days ... and we are keeping the weight off, too.
  
  WARNING: You have to be prepared follow Jillian's fitness and nutrition plan. Otherwise, you will have limited or modest success ... everything she maps out for you improves your life on so many different levels. And, as I have said, my wife and I were pretty well "educated" on fitness and nutrition. What Jillian does is wrap it all up in one package. We used to focus mostly on cardio, with some strength training mixed in. Jillian's approach is balanced with emphasis on exercising combined with strength training and cardio. But in the middle of all of that is plenty of cardio (more than you ever imagined - be prepared to be out of breath A LOT at first) ... when I first saw jumping jacks and jumping rope I was a bit skeptical ... that is, until I found myself out of breath and thinking I was going to die after just 30 seconds attempting each ... the bottom line is that you get such a balance approach to fitness, that there is plenty of cardio along with everything else. And, in no time at all, you'll be able to "keep up with Jillian!"
  
  Jillian starts you off by explaining what is involved in losing weight the "right way" (i.e., eating right/smart and exercising your body in specific ways). You'll even take a brief test to see how you oxidize food. There's more to losing weight and getting/staying healthy than just numbers (3,500 calories equalling one pound of fat ... but many times, those numbers don't seem to add up - that is until you start working with Jillian!). As you restrict your caloric intake, it's essential that you eat the right kinds of food to build muscle, strengthen your immune system, and stay energized. To know how to get the most nutritional bang for your caloric buck, you need to understand your metabolic type, which is the way your body converts what you eat into energy.
  
  You will find out if you are a Fast, Slow or Balanzed Oxidizer ...For many years the health industry has embraced a standardized "one size fits all" approach to weight loss. But the reality is that no one diet works for everyone. Inherited genetics makes each of us unique, from the color of our hair right down to the way our organs function. This uniqueness extends to the way our cells convert nutrients into energy. To know how to get the most nutritional bang for your calorie buck, you need to understand your unique metabolic type (and how you oxidize food) around the foods that will help you achieve and maintain your ideal weight while optimizing your physical energy, strength, and mental clarity.
  
  After you take a short test, you'll know just how your body processes food ... from there on out, EVERYTHING you eat will be oriented around how you oxidize food ... that is what is incredible about this book - it is designed to fit YOUR specific needs. So that means what you eat is smart and just right for you. Combine that with the exercise regime ... and, I tell ya, if you do everything Jillian tells you, you will not only lose weight, you'll keep it off. Best of all, armed with all of the information and insight you learn from Jillian, you'll never go back to your "old ways." And, therein lies the "secret formula" of this book: there are no magic answers, quick fixes, or schemes of any type ... this is going to be hard work and you will be required to "follow the rules." In the span of just a few days (and LOTS of sore, aching muscles), you'll be sold on Jillian's safe, smart, effective, and "see the results" program.
  
  And, when you talk about balanced, the meal plans Jillian maps out for you, well, those border on "beyond gormet," yet they are quite easy to "cook up" at the end of a busy work day.
  
  Again, you have to be prepared to "stick with the plan" with Jillian. If you do so, you will be amazed at the results. We were so impressed that we have now joined her online, web site program at http://www.jillianmichaels.com ... it is more of the same "great stuff" that is in the book and it is all outstanding. Additionally, Jillian provides a plethora of tools and encouragement ... plus you can line up a "work out buddy" online to help you stay on track (while you help that person stay on track) ... my wife and I PUSH each other, so we didn't need the buddy system, but from what I have seen, it is a great asset that is included as part of the web site ... Jillian provides all kinds of information and her daily emails are quite informative, too.
  
  The best part in all of this is that EVERYTHING is completely mapped out and scheduled for you with this book, "Making the Cut." There is enough variation and additional options in the meal plan that you never will get bored with what you are preparing to eat.
  
  THE NAKED TRUTH: My wife and I have tried pretty much all of the fads, gimmicks, and false promises over the years when it comes to losing weight and keeping it off. Jillian's approach is the REAL DEAL. You need to be prepared to make lifestyle changes (which are forever). And, you need to be prepared to be the sorest you have ever been in your life (to begin with), because her variations on the common exercises we all know about (push ups, lunges, squats, jumping jacks, jumping rope, crunches/sit ups and MUCH more) will initially make you feel like you are going to die (especially the mornings after when you attempt to get out of bed). But the end result is that Jillian will get you into the best shape of your life - you'll never feel better. My wife and I were already oriented to exercising with a stationary bike, BowFlex, ellipse machine, Nordic Track ski machine, and Stairmaster, but still we struggled a little bit at first "just to keep up" ... but what is great is that Jillian builds her book around "Level 1" (for beginners) and "Level 2" for the more advanced ... in other words, she has all the bases covered so there are no excuses ... and, on that subject, if you have watched "The Biggest Loser" on NBC, you'll know that Jillian doesn't mince words nor does she give you sympathy when you want to quit! That attitude comes across LOUD & CLEAR in this book ... and that is a good thing. You're "here" to get in shape, to be healthy, to eat right, and to feel the best you have ever felt ... Jillian delivers on all of that and then some.
  
  BUY THIS BOOK ... it is exactly what you need to get in shape and to sculpt your body from the inside out ... and to keep things that way. What you will learn about nutrition and exercising will be daily revelations. Oh, one final word: be prepared to "clean out your cupboards" AND your refrigerator, because Jillian even provides a grocery list of the food you should be buying (which means no sugar, no white flour, and definitely minimal salt). And, you're going to be surprised at just how amazingly good all of the food YOU will be preparing is. Yea, YOU WILL BE PREPARING ... there are no prepackaged meals here and that is probably what my wife and I love best about all of this (actually, we love every aspect of what Jillian has to offer) ... we highly recommend "Making the Cut" ... if you really want to "trim down" and keep off those extra pounds, Jillian clearly shows you the way!
  
  Got any questions? Email me at bil@alvernaz.com ...
  
  One last point: I heard this somewhere once, "Nothing tastes as great as being thin feels!" You'll understand the real meaning of that once you make it through Jillian's 30 days meticulously outlined in "Making the Cut."
  
  

• Mixed Bag

  
  By AT79BAVA063DG on 2007-10-06
  I was somewhat disappointed with this book. It has a larger and better collection of recipes than Winning by Losing, but there were still no quotes from actual clinical studies supporting her "oxidizer" diet plan.
  
  Like her other book, it is really geared towards people who have access to a good-quality gym--there are no separate workouts for those who wish to do this program at home. Equally annoying is that there is no quick picture guide for the workout--you really are tied in to flipping through the book until you memorize the exercises, and many of the exercise variations don't have pictures at all. Finally, when you have to bring any kind of supplement usage into a fitness book....
  
  However, she admits up front that her 7-day diet is really for losing water weight, not fat. Most authors featuring a diet of that sort do not.
  
  I would check this book and Winning by Losing out of the library first before buying.
  
  
  A much more home-friendly workout book is Minna Lessig's book: Tank Top Arms, Bikini Belly, Boy Shorts Bottom. She has several pages of small pictures showing the beginning and end positions of each exercise, grouped by the type of workout you want to do. Her DVD of the same name is also quite good.
  
  
• I lost 8lbs in week one
  By A2EVTBE7BOKDZ6 on 2007-04-18
  If you want to know how people like Vanessa Marcil go from having a baby to getting back on the cover of Maxim in only a few months, get this book.
  
  The scary part: the workout is challenging and I can't even sit on the toilet I am so sore, but the diet is a no fail. Jillian literally walks you through every second of your day for a month. From exercising, eating, sleeping, supplements you name it. She leaves you no room for error.
  
  I have been doing her plan for exactly 1 week today and weighed in this morning 8 POUNDS LIGHTER! After a week!
  
  
• Making the Cut
  By AOPGDH5M54SWN on 2007-08-06
  Jillian Michaels a personal trainer by trade, follows up to her other book"Winning by Losing" with a more aggressive approach to a more define body within a 30 day period of time. Good use of gym equipment and exercise combinations that will give that "rip" look the reader is looking for.
  
  
  
• A Swift Kick in the Head
  By A25RHQPBZIMVLU on 2007-07-16
  This book is a wake up call for the fitness enthusiast. I am a physically fit, middle-aged woman who had decided to drop that last 10 pounds and get serious about muscle definition. After reading this book, I no longer cared about these fitness goals. The book is daunting. The exercises are advanced (gym-style), but no "at home" modifications. The nutrition part left me a bit overwhelmed. I was unable to figure out what type of oxidizer I was from the questions. The format is list-like and the motivation didn't do it for me. Instead of feeling enthusiastic, I was left feeling hopeless.
  
  I really liked her first book and her Shape Up DVDs, but since I don't need to lose 100 lbs, I thought this book would motivate me. It had the opposite effect. It is geared more toward getting ready for a special event, but even for my wedding, I wouldn't have gone through this kind of gruelling regimen.
  
  I know Jillian is no-nonsense, which I really like, but this book made me feel old and fat. Not quite what I was looking for. All in all a disappointment for me, but I gave it 2 stars because I liked some of the recipes.
  
  
• Jillian Michaels Knows How To Take It Off
  By A2H8P0X3X94930 on 2007-04-18
  As one who's started many diets and not finished any, I was attracted to the dustcover phrase "The 30 Day Diet and Fitness Plan" In the past, something of the utmost importance had always knocked me off a diet - holidays, a family reunion, a gift box of candy, the necessity of eating popcorn at a movie, an irresistible urge to walk into an ice cream shop. As you can see, it took very little. But, I thought anyone, even me, can stick to a plan for 30 days.
  
  As I began to read this book I became even more impressed with the author, Jillian Michaels, Biggest Loser Trainer. Of course, she's had her share of celebrity clients, but what came through to me was the amount of space she spent in explaining the importance of motivation, and how to care for yourself during the plan. She seems to really care about her readers' well being rather than just selling books. For instance, she tell readers that if you have over 20lbs to loser to put the book back on the shelf.
  
  Jillian's approach is two pronged - exercise and nutrition. Both are equally important. Since this is a 30 day program, the exercise requirement is a minimum of 40 minutes a day, 5 times a week. The exercises are clearly explained with photographs that show exactly how to do them.
  
  Her nutrition plan is very detailed down to your individualized calorie allowance. She has 30 seperate full day menus for each nutrition plan with over 100 recipes.
  
  Jillian is also incredibly candid. She discusses the pros and cons of very controversial weight loss supplements and procedures that most fitness experts might shy away from in an effort to be politicaly correct.
  
  Well, my 30 days isn't up yet, in fact it's barely begin and I am aching EVERYWHERE, but I can already feel and see a difference. I'll finish as I'm a bit like the Little Engine That Could...."I know I can, I know I can," And, I know I'll be delighted I did!
  
  
• Waste of time and money!
  By AN1QUYXFQQ5QL on 2007-07-08
  What's up with her new book making the cut? She clearly says, BOUNCE if your trying to lose more than 20lbs, this book is not for you. if you can't do a regular push up, your a wossy... hello? thanks for the motivation, b*tch.. lol.. this book is just like the first minus all the crap she spoke.. it get's to the point, but it's so insulting.. if your not 130lb, this book is not for you..
  
  i kinda looked up to her, until i read that..
  
  
• Love it
  By A1RQKQVUBR4311 on 2007-04-18
  Jillian as always is brutally honest, but for all the right reasons. This book is a perfect follow up to her first, Winning By Losing.
  
  Jillian's diet philosophy is that there is no one size fits all diet. Ain't that the truth. For this reason, Making the cut assigns you an individualized calorie count and oxidizer type. The book has 3 seperate 30 day meal plans with detailed menus and recipes even down to the sodium grams. It makes it a no brainer to figure out how much carbs, protein and fat are right for you.
  
  What makes this book different from her first is that she goes into great detail about what foods you CAN'T eat in order to balance your hormones and maximize your metabolism. She talks about how sodium, alcohol, processed foods, supplements affect your metabolism. The information was actually new to me.
  
  The exercise program is incredible. The way it's written it feels like she is actually training you.
  Highly recommend.
  
  
• A must read
  By A3UK995NPZGETO on 2007-04-18
  This book is so detailed it was above and beyond my expectations.
  
  For example, Jillian advises you to supplement your diet with kelp as iodine is essential for healthy thyroid function.
  
  The book includes information on hormones, metabolism, insulin, the "glycemic load index", the thyroid hormone, cortisol, stress, the adrenal gland, the growth hormone, hunger hormones, and more. Many of the issues might seem overwhelming, but jillian makes it very simple to understand. She creates a simple plan that will help you fire up your metabolism and balance your hormones once and for all!
  
  
• Making the Cut will Kick Your Butt!
  By AAFONPXQR6Z6E on 2007-09-21
  I just finished the Making the Cut 30-day program and am very satisfied with the results. I joined a gym for a month to try it out (I usually work out at home), so I would have access to more equipment and machines. I found that I can probably do the routine at home with a couple of modifications. I lost 7 stubborn pounds (I was at a plateau for about 6 weeks) - discovered that counting calories does "count" when you are trying to get those last lbs off. You have to be fairly fit to do the workout at a decent intensity level; I'm pretty fit, but had to modify a few that I just could not do (yet), like a scorpion push up and a pike crunch. Her recipes are tasty and the menu has quite a variety.
  
  That said, there are a few improvements I would make:
  
  #1: Structure the meal plans with a little less variety so you can use up the groceries you purchase for the week. If you don't, you will have a lot of waste.
  #2: Structure every recipe based on four servings, so if you are cooking for one or two you can modify them easily. Why make a salad that serves 10? Most people are doing this program by themselves or, maybe, with a partner.
  #3: Alphabetize the exercises by name in the index so you can look them up easily. I have a good memory, but I needed to refer to the exercises a few times and it was frustrating trying to look them up.
  #4: There seems to be a little confusion on the exercise (with # of reps, etc.) and the description of the exercise - for instance, she'll say in the exercise description: use both hands, then, in the workout schedule, it will say "single hand" and it doesn't seem to make sense.
  #5: Suggestions for what to do "next" at the end of the program, and also include some inspiration in between the daily workout schedule.
  
  Otherwise, TOUGH WORKOUT and GOOD RESULTS if you make the effort!
  
  It's true, there's not a lot of clinical studies, etc. to prove her theories, but it is a no-nonsense approach to taking a step to the next level. The workouts are not for sissies; they are intense and heart pounding. Yes, a couple of the exercises are difficult to figure out without a picture, but I'd say that 95% are clear and concise and simple to figure out if you've had some exposure to a gym or are familiar with basic fitness moves.
  
  
• Only if you have what it takes
  By A365AFTHPIN1CP on 2007-04-18
  As one of the Australian Biggest Loser contestants and one of the success stories on Jillian new book, I want to be the first to recommend MAKING THE CUT. If you are serious about wanting to look and FEEL better, this is a "sure-fire" plan. It is intense, so you must be dedicated and disciplined, but it WORKS! You don't need an expensive gym, but you do need the right mind set and Jillian's book!
  
  
• WOW
  By A25GC87MHNZ642 on 2007-04-18
  I have to say that this book does it all for you when it comes to the planning. It is very detailed about exactly what to eat for the whole 30 days and the majority of the exercises can be done at home, but there is alternatives for the gym.
  I have struggled with sticking to a diet plan because it became too hard to plan, but since it has every clearly laid out, even the shopping list, it's going give me one less excuse to not do it.
  If you really want a guide to stick too, I would recommend you get his one.
  
  
• This isn't really a diet book but a lifestyle change
  By AFI00QJ0NT26E on 2007-05-08
  I found this book very informative and what I loved is she realizes everyone is different thus we need to approach weightloss differently. I love that she encourages lifestyle changes not a diet to loss then gain again once you stop. The segments help you find what type you are and to approach your health from that angle. It's been very helpful and I've lost 10 pounds in 2 and 1/2 weeks. This is something that was well worth buying and I feel I'm on my way to being all that I can be and staying that way.
  
  
• This is HARD but it works.
  By A1ZRV7CBAOU6NK on 2007-05-28
  No doubt you will get results with this book. Jillian Michaels obviously knows what she is talking about. In truth, if you don't seek a totally hard body you can even slack a little on the diet portion and still get results.
  But... These exercises are draining. After a couple of weeks I found that I didn't want a hard body bad enough to keep putting myself through the routine. I use the exercises in the book once a week as a jumpstart to my fitness program and then do my usual for the rest of the week. That is what works for me. I can still tell the difference since starting Jillian's program.
  If you are ready for a real challenge and are ALREADY doing a regular exercise and weight lifting program then this book will certainly take you to the next level.
  
  
• So far so good
  By A2R1FKIRO0KIPI on 2007-04-19
  I am a Jillian fan so I had to buy her book the day it came out. I am a almost a 3rd of the way through and I did my first pull ever... in my whole life and I have lost 7lbs in 10 days.
  
  Here are the pros: The book's diet and fitness plans are detailed, individualized, thorough, motivating, informational, effective.
  
  Here are the cons: I don't have much time to cook all the meals on the menus. She does provide quick to go options for breakfasts and snacks, but I wish there were more for dinners on the go. She also gives you a list of foods that are right for you so you can at least use that when out at a restaurant.
  
  All in all a great book!
  
  
• Very talented performer, not so on diet or science.
  By A1845IJB63D5H7 on 2007-05-03
  If born in an Eastern European country, Jillian might have been a top-notch Olympic athlete. The commercialism of the American culture dominates her writing and professionalism. The two certificates of "Personal Trainers" she possesses attest to her detraction by her local culture. Her talent in performing exercise far outmatches any acquired credentials.
  
  The chapter on exercise, which shows her best accomplishments, is pushed back to the end of the book. The book begins with a mediocre chapter on science that contains useless 80 pages on recipes and unscientific tests of metabolic types. Worse yet is the book cover with a dark background that conceals the real beauty of an attractive and lively young woman.
  
  The end of the book contains chapter on supplements which shows healthy skepticism of unsubstantiated commercial aids of weight loss and fitness. In her conclusions on the chemical approach to health, the author proves her ability to question the ill-intention of consumerism on preying on unwary health seekers.
  
  The real contribution of the book is the exercise chapter. Here, where the book scores solid 5-stars. The author (I guess) poses on all exercises and includes extensive and tremendously challenging techniques. Few of the outstanding exercises that are rarely found in other references are:
  
  1- Thrust straight leg squat.
  2- Scorpion push ups.
  3- Jump squat.
  4- One leg squat.
  5- Dumbbell raises with leg lunges (perfect posture).
  6- Frog raises.
  7- One arm side Plank.
  
  Although her deadlift with 5-pound dumbbell is both erroneous and misnamed, it does little to undermine her skillful exercise planning.
  
  The only disappointment with that chapter on exercise is the black and white photos and the slim anatomical and mechanical details on the benefits and objectives of the exercises. Performance is where the author should have demonstrated her real talent instead of squandering it on meal recipes and unproven physiological tricks.
  
  Jillian's high spirit is demonstrated on her facial expressions during exercising, which shows the real indulgence in her beloved hobby of performing. Her physique seems to have been shaped to suit powerful physical activity.
  
  Mohamed F. El-Hewie
  Author of
  Essentials of Weightlifting and Strength Training
  
  
  
• You MUST be in tip top shape to lose 10-20lbs?
  By A289UJ3MN0IJTV on 2008-01-28
  Okay, to get this book you have to already be a die-hard fitness guru...but then again, if you were, why are you buying this book? Also, the meal plans sound great, but preparing them (for example, lunches) are almost unreasonable, unless you're a stay at home parent or you work a strange shift. And yes, I have prepped them the night before, but eating a SEAFOOD dish the next day is not exactly a picnic, the same goes for a day old piece of grilled chicken REHEATED in a microwave. To "eat right" in this book means to sacrifice your taste buds or starve yourself, and I'm not trying to be remotely amusing about this.
  
  Now, as for the exercise regime, it is tough. And quite honestly folks, if I didn't buy the DVD set, I wouldn't have been able to figure out more than half of the exercises based on reading a description! (Yes, there are some pictures to go with the instructions, but for the most part, it's just a written description of how to contort your body). I don't understand how this book is meant for someone who is already in "tip top shape", yet needing to lose 20lbs? (If you read the intro, she states you already have to be in decent shape to endure this boot camp style regime). Mind you, there are some positive aspects - I've learned to make a few new dishes, as well as a few other exercises, but all in all, this really was a waste of money (and you will waste a good $200 on food products to fit her strict diet plan).
  
  As for the Complete Body Workout DVD set:
  This complete set was phenomenal, yet they are definitely NOT for those who are looking to start working out for the first time because you will get you butt handed to you! I work out 3-4 times a day for 1 ½ hrs PLUS additional 2 mile run in the PM after work and let me tell you, I hurt in places I didn't even know existed from her routines... and all within a 30 minute workout! I must admit, these workouts are fast paced from the get-go, so pay attention. You will be hitting the pause and rewind button on your DVD player several times. Also, 4 out of the 5 DVD's require for you to have a Step board in addition to the hand weights, so be prepared to spend some money on "equipment".
  All in all, if you want a challenging workout that is EFFECTIVE but in a short period of time, then this set is for you... oh and remember folks... FAST FEET! (inside joke...you'll get it when you buy the DVDs hahaha)
  
  
  
  
• Jillian kicked my butt into shape!
  By A1JUL1MO90D5CZ on 2007-05-25
  I loved the show biggest loser and really wanted to lose those last 10-20 pounds and tone up. WOW! I thought I was in shape before I started this book and man, I was not working out to my full potential at all! These work outs are HARD, but GREAT! I am two and a half weeks in and have lost 4 pounds. I haven't measured myself since the beginning, but my clothes are fitting looser and all the muscles in my body are tightening up. The pounds don't come off right away. You need to cut calories and build muscle. Then the new muscle burns more calories when you are doing daily activities. I didn't lose any weight for the first week, so hopefully more will come off soon!
  
  I have not been following the meal-guide exactly, mostly concentrating on my calories. The meal plans are hard to follow in a house-hold of one or two. I was afraid if I bought all the food I needed to complete a week, it would go moldy before it was gone! I chose a couple breakfasts, lunches, and snacks and followed those consistantly, instead of having something different everyday. I tried most of the dinners and they were great! The meals are all easily adaptable to what your grocery store has in stock. For the balanced oxidizer, I eat cottage cheese or cereal for breakfast, a turkey wrap for lunch, half an apple with PB for snack, and fish/chicken with veggies for dinner. Jillian introducers a lot of different low calorie sauces to put on the fish, chicken and veggies that taste great!
  
  I would definitely recommend this book if you are wanting to lose a little weight or are stuck in a work-out rut!
  
  
• Not for beginners
  By A35F3XOONA3UU8 on 2007-06-30
  First, let me say you don't need a gym membership for these exercises. I suggest going by a bookstore and taking a look at the exercises and what equipment they require. If you are experienced with the exercises, you could use resistance bands instead of cable machines at the gym. If you wanted to do this routine at home I suggest buying 3 different weights of dumbells, starting at 5 lbs, a stability ball, resistance tubing- 3 different resistance levels, and a step.
  
  The routines are hard circuits and they do require at least 45 minutes if everything is done correctly. There are a lot of plyometric exercises in this routine- think jump squats. This circuit is like a cardio workout combined with weights all at the same time. I kept my heart rate monitor on one day and my HR stayed elevated the whole time. She does say in the book that nothing can be skipped in her program and she is 100% correct.
  
  The nutrition section is helpful, but the recipes are very complex. Jillian starts with a quiz to find out what kind of metabolism you have and the foods that will fit you best. It is ok- I don't follow that word by word though. I suggest the The Eat-Clean Diet: Fast Fat-Loss that lasts Forever! for a good, solid nutrition guideline.
  
  Overall, this is a good workout, but it takes time and commitment!
  
  
• what a book!!!!
  By AV1QLOONP518 on 2007-04-19
  WOW WHAT A FITNESS BOOK, MAN I HAVE THIS BOOK 5 DAYS NOW AND MAN IS IT WORKING OR WHAT!! JILLIANS TAKES YOU THROUGH A 30 DAY STEP BY STEP FITNESS STRUCTURE THAT WORKS! I HAVE TRIED SO MANY OTHER BOOKS OUT THERE AND THEY ARE JUST NOT THE SAME AS THIS ONE. THE BOOK READS EXTREMELY WELL AND IT IS CLEAR THAT THIS GIRL IS PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT SHE DOES,
  
  THANKS A MILLION JILLIAN, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK
  
  
• On the fence...
  By A3HH4YSM2AAQQ1 on 2008-02-08
  I am on the fence about this book. I have struggled with weight my entire life and about 3 years ago I managed to lose 40 pounds by exercising and eating right. I am at the point now where I'm struggling with those last 10-15 pounds. When I saw this book, I thought it was perfect since it's geared towards those who have those last 10-20 pounds to lose.
  
  The first week or so into the plan was fine although I must admit I altered the food options because I cannot fathom the idea of eating meat/chicken more than once a day! The workouts are REALLY extreme so be forewarned, you will work your butt off for sure. After about 10-14 days into the plan, I lost about 7 pounds but that's about as far as it went for me. I did not like the food options and just wound up sticking to my daily calorie intake.
  
  Overall, I wasn't satisfied with this book. The book's claim to have a beach body fit to run a bikini by then end of the 30 days is highly unlikely. I completed the 30 days back at the same weight I was when I started and not in any better shape body wise. I have learned that everyone's body is different and you need to go through some trial and error to see what works for you. I suggest you read through some of the daily food/workout plans to see if this is something thay you can incorporate.
  
  
• Okay, but not great
  By A1BVY5NPI6T61K on 2007-05-24
  It has some good exercises in it but when trying to do the circuits the exercises listed do not have the page number listed beside them so that you can look them up to see how they are done. You waste time going back and forth trying to figure out how to do them. After a while you get to know certain ones but seems like every couple workouts she throws another new one in and then you spend time looking up the exercise and trying to figure out how to properly do it.
  I'm on day 18 or so & I haven't noticed much change in my body. Some of the exercises require certain equipment that you probably don't have in your home like a lat machine and a machine you can do hamstring curls on.
  I would not purchase this book unless you have a true die-hard body builder kind of mentality. Definitely some tough stuff here.
  
  
• It Works
  By A1LTG5YYQDSO8M on 2008-01-22
  I am in day 27 of 30 days and have lost 15 pounds using this book. I have "improvised" a little on the menus to make shopping easier, but have stuck to the general meals. The workouts are tough, even though I already work out regularly. They add a new challenge to my old routine.
  
  There are a few "typos" in the workout section, but you can figure it out.
  
  Overall The plan has been a huge success for me, and I would reccomend
  this book . Just don't cheat and you will lose weight and tone up.
  
  
  
• Great Book!
  By A2BBS01TQZHAQS on 2007-05-21
  I love the book. Please be aware that this is not for someone just starting out. I thought I was in good shape but I am having a very hard time keeping up with the schedule. It gives me a goal so this is not a complaint. I am a vegetarian so I can't use the meal plans. Does anyone write low-fat vegetarian meals plans???? This is my only complaint. The book is exactly what I thought it would be and I am very pleased with my purchase.
  
  
• Incredible Workout Plan!
  By AFDGZDLQTG4CP on 2007-08-03
  I am already very fit, but wanted something to burn off some any residue of "muffin top" around my waistline. I was worried at first that being a TV trainer, this was going to be some namby-pamby workout. I was wrong! It is tough and it certainly requires effort -- effort that will bring amazing results. Many of the exercises are bodyweight only, some can be done with just dumbbells and modifications can be made if you can't go to a gym...but belonging to a gym is definitely the best way to perform this program.
  
  Not for newbies to fitness, it is intense and effective. Out on the net, there are more expensive eBooks out there that promise the same benefits...this plan delivers at a fraction of the cost.
  
  
• Sonia's Review
  By A23OTVCSEB1UIN on 2007-08-09
  The book gives information on nutrition, diet and exercise which is already known. The work out routines are good. In general,it helps give you that extra push to exersize with more intensity.The food menus weren't really my thing though. I'd have prefered a breakfast which doesn't require a lot of preperation and doesn't have meat. Seeing that most people go to work early and can't really start cooking omelets or sausages in the morning.I prefer something easy such as low fat milk and a bowl of cereal and i would also have liked two snacks, a fruit in the morning and on in the afternoon, rather than having that huge and heavy (for me) breakfast and nothing in between until lunch. To sum it up i genarally liked it.
  
  
• Good complement to any workout program
  By ANDNPITMEMLSL on 2008-05-27
  After developing a strong workout ethic after 35 consecutive 30 Day Shred workouts, I was ready to find out Jillian's point of view regarding diet.
  The book begins by making clear that it is for those with 20 pounds or less to lose. Jillian empahsizes the importance of strict adherence to the program in text peppered with what I will call "Jillian toughisms" (e.g.,"....Over the next 30 days you are mine, and this is your bible....", "..., skipping any part of this book is NOT AN OPTION....").The book continues with a fitness test, explanations of how to take body measurements, and information on the importance of counting calories.
  Central to the book is a 49-question Metabolic Typing Test that helps an individual determine their metabolic type and three separate 30-day meal plans (breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner) for each of the three metabolic types...and recipes (15 breakfast, 38 lunch, 43 dinner, and 16 sauces, snacks,and sides).
  The latter part of the book features 103 exercises (44 with photos of Jillian performing the exercise) to be performed in the 30-day routine(which includes rest days)outlined (while some of the exercises that use gym equipment can be modified for performance at home (e.g., dips and tricep presses),not all can be modified (e.g., wide-grip lat pull-downs and leg presses))and a 7-day diet for shedding water and "getting ripped up for that jaw-dropping effect we all need from time to time." Note: the rountines DO NOT outline warm-ups or cooldowns. The only statement referencing a cooldown is "....And don't forget to stretch after your workout--remember to hit all the major muscle groups used that day." That being the case, you would have to devise a warmup that works for you and a cooldown that, as the book says, hits all the major muscle groups used.
  This would be a good complement to any workout program. It provides good basic nutritional information, motivation, exercises that can be substituted for those in the 30 Day Shred workouts from time to time to keep them interesting over the long haul, and routines that can be alternated with any workouts.
  Good offering.
  
  

• Jillian Michaels - 30 Day Shred
• Winning by Losing: Drop the Weight, Change Your Life
• The Biggest Winner - How to Win by Losing: The Complete Body Workout (5-Disc DVD Set: Shape Up - Front, Shape Up - Back, Cardio Kickbox, Maximize - Full Frontal, Maximize - Back in Action)
• The Biggest Loser Workout: Power Sculpt
• The Biggest Loser Cookbook: More Than 125 Healthy, Delicious Recipes Adapted from NBC's Hit Show