So Questions Anyone?

[lil_wee]

Don't be shy, we can't help if you don't ask. :hello2:

:reading:

[fruitvine]

This forum is a great idea!

[LauriS]

? ? ? I'm confused......

[LauriS]

Yes, after further investigation and embarassment, I figured that out...

I'm a dork. It's official now on the t-tapp forum...

: )

[nitarose104]

I am not really new, but I do have a few questions.

When I am doing a move such as thread the needle, it really, really cramps those side calf muscles. I already have quite largish calves and do NOT want them any more developed. A little more definition would be fine, but they really do cramp on moves like that (of course, the balance ones).

I know how to stretch it out if it is the back of my calf muscle, but have no idea how to stretch those side muscles - or even what they are called. Suggestions?

[juliaV]

I am not really new, but I do have a few questions.

When I am doing a move such as thread the needle, it really, really cramps those side calf muscles. I already have quite largish calves and do NOT want them any more developed. A little more definition would be fine, but they really do cramp on moves like that (of course, the balance ones).

I know how to stretch it out if it is the back of my calf muscle, but have no idea how to stretch those side muscles - or even what they are called. Suggestions?

Hi Nita,

The muscles on the side of the calf are small, there is the peroneus longus, extensor digitorum longus, on the outside and the flexor idgitorum longus on the inside.

Check your points of position . In every move be sure you have your stance with feet hip width apart and toes pointing forward, butt tucked, bend deep knees pushing out to little toes, ribs lifted, thumbs away. When coming up to the Balance Sequence it is intentional that your body is fatigued, especially the legs, and it is designed to work your core, the internal muscles that are not normally used in daily activity. In your case it may be that your bigger calf muscles are fatigued and it is working your internal (small side) calf muscles and causing cramping.

That your small muscles are taking over to do the job of balancing your body in the balance moves makes me wonder if your alignment is off which is why I take you back to the all-important T-Tapp stance.

The Balance Sequence and Thread the Needle are hard, and they come after you are purposefully fatigued; I would say to pay extra close attention at that time and be sure you have proper form, take a break and kick out before beginning Balance or Thread the Needle, and stop when you feel the cramp coming and kick out. Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after you workout that will help also.

Also Nita, on the DVD Total Workout and Instructional Workout #2, in the Form Tips, there is a segment at the end where Teresa shows you how to work out your leg cramps; do you have that DVD or VHS so you can look at it?

[nitarose104]

Thanks, Julia, yes I do have those workouts (I think I have almost ALL the workouts) and I have watched that portion on working out leg cramps. It doesn't seem to work those little side muscles as I am doing TTN. I am drinking plenty of water, but will have my hubby check my form while doing that sequence. I used to get cramps pretty badly in the back of my calves during the night, but that has subsided, mostly because I stretch them right before bed.

I am guessing that my form is off or my core is not as strong as I thought it was getting. Thanks a bunch for your tips.

Also, do you know how I can keep from straining my neck when I do OIP/HF? I guess with all I was thinking about when doing that move, that it didn't dawn on my until a few days ago that I was straining my neck a little. I am guessing it has something to do with placing my arms in the "w" incorrectly.

Thanks so much for you assistance.

[monica213]

Nita, do you take Magnesium? Or use the Mag oil? My body cramps when I am Magnesium deficient.

[moon]

Only one other thing comes to mind.

Are you putting all your weight on the outside of your foot or are you standing with some pressure on the big ball joint and big toe lifted in addition to your last two toes?

[Leapster]

I am not really new to T-TAPP-started in the summer, but have noticed any time I do floor exercises, my stomach muscles hurt, hurt, hurt. I am pulling in and tightening, but could it possibly be too much?

I had open heart surgery when I was a child and I know that sometimes my chest hurts with exercises, but I have my doctor's ok (and cardiologist) to work out and they have encouraged me to go up to 60 minutes. Since doing Tappy Holidays and the floor exercises, I feel like I have been sidelined and I am not sure what to do about it.

It really hurts me between my rib cage and stomach. Any suggestions?

[nitarose104]

Isabel, thanks for the input. My dh is going to check my form tomorrow when I do the TWO. And Michelle, I did forget about the magnesium. I do take some, but had dropped the dosage a little. I may need to go back up where I was before. Thank a bunch.

[juliaV]

Also, do you know how I can keep from straining my neck when I do OIP/HF? I guess with all I was thinking about when doing that move, that it didn't dawn on my until a few days ago that I was straining my neck a little. I am guessing it has something to do with placing my arms in the "w" incorrectly.

Thanks so much for you assistance.

Nita,
Try doing the OIP/HF with your hands on your ribcage rather then in the W. Also, be sure your tailbone is curled under and spine is strait.

Pay close attention to how your body is feeling and when you feel the abs stop doing the work, and the neck starts to take over to help, take a break. Get your form back before doing another rep.

Let the abs do all the work; go slower so that you catch it when neck decides to play too! Neck is not invited to this party.

[lauracs63]

I just purchased and received the MORE. I also just joined the Forum so please excuse me if there are answers to my questions somewhere in the Forum. Having done the instructional portion of MORE for the first time yesterday, I was wondering why you don't stretch after exercising the muscles? I've also been under the impression that any time you work a muscle you have to stretch. Thank you.

[Lori French]

The stretches are built into to the moves, that's the beauty of T-Tapp!

Welcome!

[lauracs63]

Thank you Lori!

[Lori French]

You're welcome! :)

Keep the questions coming, I know you have them! I say *you*, meaning

everyone reading this! Whenever someone steps forward to ask a question,

we know, many are thinking it, but are afraid to ask!

[DonnaHenry]

I am new to t-tapp, been doing total workout EOD now for little over a month, go to gymn 2 days in between, 1 day of walk away the inches and 1 day off. I have a lot of weight to lose and inches, but am fit because I have been going to gymn for 30 years. I am 47 and hypothyroid and on medication, trying to incorporate total wellness. Advice on what to expect? I feel good, but don't see inch results.

[outtathere]

On my messages in the upper right hand corner I see this:
*****************
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: glen rock, pa
Posts: 79
http://forum.t-tapp.com/morbid_blueb/misc/im_icq.gif (http://forum.t-tapp.com/showthread.php?p=718492&posted=1#)

***********************
What is that flower? what does it mean?

[cbuffy]

It's an instant messager called ICQ. (I Seek You) I haven't used it for YEARS...

[Anna Louise]

Scoliosis at T4, with a 35° curve to the right, right shoulder is "round," looks pronated 100% of the time, and #4 right rib subluxates (Ouch!). Newbie, using More, and am finding Broom and that exercise we do with the towel are really challanging, yet feel really good for the right shoulder. Can I do these daily?

In addition; Issues with left hip, (industrial injury) thigh bone seems to pop out of the socket easily, and some tendonitis in the left illio-psoas. Difficult (painful) walking long distance, up hills, but after having applied the knee over little toe method it seems like this could change... What do you think?

Does anyone here on the Forums have experience in having worn leg braces as a child to "correct" pigeon toes?

[Lamont]

Me! Braces as a toddler for legs that twisted inward. It left me with wonky knees that do well if I don't do high impact or walk down steep grades. I also have iliac pain, on and off, mostly on the left side, and both sides "pop" regularly. The orthopod swears it's referred pain from T5/L1, but I know when that hurts and it's not the same.

Oddly, I also have a left side rib that's dislodged, from a car accident at age 21. It pokes into my lats sometimes and gets inflamed. Exercise has kept me from discomfort for the most part, but I fall out of it when something goes "boing." So far, the ttapping has done wonders, and it's only been a week.

[cschusan]

I seem to have trouble doing the klt. I have RA in my feet, hands and elbows. I feel like I am not doing the klt correctly. Any advice?

[ChillaChilla]

When I go to the Skechers website, there are several kinds of shoes in their athletic line. Is there one particular line recommended for t-tapp? I am an overpronator, so definitely need good arch support.

Thanks!

[Lori French]

Sketchers 2250 or 1728 are *known* good ones.

2250 are the Energy style that Teresa wears in many videos and

most Sketcher confirmed Tappers!

[Clarity]

I SECOND THAT !!!

received my ENERGY (#2250) 3 weeks ago and WOW to they help me to do my Workouts... really. Keep saying it but it's true. They hold the feet, they have great pads to feel comfort under your feet. GREAT investment!

I bought also Premium's one to go outside and walk. Will return them and buy another Energy pair (black). Premium are more like a regular "addidas" will say. They are okay but not as comfortable (for me).

*HELLO LORI* :hello2:

[ChillaChilla]

Thanks for the response!

Any suggestions for brick and mortar stores that carry them for lowest price? I really want to try the shoes on before purchasing.

Thanks again!

[Lori French]

Watch for sales.

JCPenneys, Kohl's, Shoe Carnival, Meijer... Lots of places carry them live and in person.

Waving to Clarity!! (I'm still traveling, so not on here too much!)

[shmlss4gb]

Ok - I feel stupid asking this, but I just don't understand how to tuck my fanny. I'm trying to do the try before you buy steps, but the directions on there aren't helping me understand how to do this. I did a search through the forums, and maybe I'm just dense, I have somewhat of an idea, but really not positive. Can someone please dumb it down for me and explain this so I can do these properly?

Thanks!

[monica213]

Tuck your Butt (Curl you core) is explained here :

Teresa calls flattening the lower back "curling the core" due to the fact that many of us have a curve in that area and that’s the center or core of the body. This is a term that Teresa uses to help get Tappers to "tuck their body under" when the lower back (lower lumbar area) has a greater curve. There needs to be a "straighter line" - in other words, not a "sway back". When you tuck your butt, it is more than initiating the move from your butt or tailbone. Applying these tips can really take your workout to the next level.

Curl the Core - On the Floor
If you are a beginner you might want to practice this first on the floor to get the feeling of it. Lie on your back on the floor with your knees to the ceiling, toes forward and heels near your butt, now press your shoulders into the ground, make donut fingers (making a "donut" with your thumb and fingers, then press the thumb into the index finger), then press hands into the floor to help activate the muscles equally. Make a "W" with your arms keeping the hands even with the shoulder, now tuck your butt so that the lower lumbar area touches the floor (with NO air space).

Curl the Core - Standing
When you understand and "feel" this movement then get into the Plie stance and stand in front of a wall. Now press your back and shoulders against the wall. Make sure you press your lower back into the wall so there is no air space. You want to be able to do some Plies in that position, while keeping your shoulder and back (including lower back) pressed against the wall. You can also keep "donut hands" against the wall as well. This helps to engage your lats. Pull your elbows towards the side of your body and keep your hands down to shoulder level. This is the feeling you're working towards when you're tucking your butt.

Curl the Core - Sitting
You could also do this during the day when you're sitting. Make sure to get your shoulders and hips in alignment, then I press your lower back into the chair and tuck butt at the same time. You should feel your stomach muscles engage. This can help shave off inches for your torso and abdominal area.

[babytapper]

ok, I have a question. I started BWO+ around the end of Feb. I LOVE IT. I had my husband check my form a couple times and he seems to think I am doing it correctly. He, however, has told me it is too hard for him and won't do it with me. HA! Any way, that is not my question, my question is this: I am getting really really sore between my shoulder blades. Am I doing something wrong? Or will this get better as I get stronger? One other question, I just started going thru the exercises on TWO and it seems like it is super difficult to stay tucked the entire time on some of the exercises. Is this normal for me to feel that way?
Thank you all in advance.

[jen6]

Love this new thread I just found. So reading through from the beginning and just chuckling the whole way :laughing: about having husbands check form. Unless you are married to Dan the man, a trainer should be checking your form. Oh... if it were that easy. T-Tapp is very complex and trainers go through an intensive training/mentoring program and certification process to ensure we can help you, know the moves, correct form and much more.

You can always check out the events (http://store.t-tapp.com/pages/Upcoming-Events.html) or see if there is a trainer or upcoming workshop in your area. Some trainers travel like the marvelous Michelle, Kirsten and myself included. That is what changed it for me. The t-tapp retreat in Safety Harbor 2008, oh ya! The memories... :D

So on to a question, heck ya it is hard to keep it tucked. That is why t-tapp rocks! Major muscles activation while focusing on keeping it bent, core curled under, lifting ribs to the crown of your head, pulling that belly button in and pushing knees out. Then you just keep taking it to the next level. So don't worry, you will progress.

And just warning you that our dear Michelle (when she reads this) will most certainly pop on here again to make some kind of funny, ha, ha, joke about me as her trainee being the queen of the UN-Butt-Tuck. So I'll just fess up right now that yes, it is challenging and that yes, I was butt-tucked challenged (and duck toed at first) :o And even though I am a trainer now, I was a decade-loing work in progress (and still am) and could not get through every move or every rep (hardly). But that is okay, just go to your own personal max and do each move in good form. We would rather you do 4 reps in good form than 8 in poor.

Oh ya, Hi Michelle :hello2:

[babochina]

Hi all,
I have a question. Would you have any tip or recommendation to really slim down the calves?
Mine are a bit too round for me (14'-15') ... and just muscles
I have just started T-Tapp, I am going through my instructionals-B/R and I think I will immediately add the AL to my routine
If you have any information to share about it, you d make my day :-)

[just7]

Take time to learn the Instructions #1. That will definitely bring some changes to those calves!!

[babochina]

Thank you Jennifer for the advice :hello2:
If T-Tapp works for these calves, I d be the happiest!
I d like them so much to be one or two inches thinner, I don t have enough patience ... :behave:

[monica213]

trainee being the queen of the UN-Butt-Tuck

What?? Me make a joke about your form issues?? Never! I love and adore you!! <I also would never mention you were queen of the leaning back almost to fall over .... either> :thinkingabout:Good thing you had a great mentor to kick your arse in gear :laughing:

[recordsclerk]

I love the TTT Intermediate, my question is should I do the DD + AL on the same day as TTT or on opposite days?
This morning I did PBS, HD, DD +AL and plan on doing TTT tomorrow. Will this be over working?
Thanks
Peg

[rcrosby]

I am new to TTapp, I have been doing the full ttapp workout and the walking workout for about a month. I am wanting to lose at least 2 dress sizes in the next 60 days. First is this doable and second what workouts should I be doing? I own the total workout, Both walking workouts and the lower body workout. I am in a tight 12 now and would like to be in an 8 by June 4th.

[monica213]

Start doing instructional 1 and do it until you are comfortable. If you do the walking workout on the same day as Inst 1, then it is a FULL workout. otherwise both are short workouts. I would suggest you eat GM/MM or do mindful eating. Drink plenty of water, and get rest, without either your body will release stress hormones which will actually CAUSE you to store fat. Let us know if you have any questions

[rcrosby]

Hi Michelle, Thanks for the information. I tend to over train is it too much to do the total workout say Tu., THUR. Sat. and the Step it to the max M, W, F ?

[BlessedMama]

I'm not Michelle, but I do know SITTM is also a full workout. So you could alternate them like:

M-TWO
T-off (or just the BWO+ portion)
W-SITTM
Th--repeat T
F-TWO or SITTM
S--off or repeat T
S-off except PBS

Just a thought! Or one week do two TWO and 1 SITTM, the next switch it--2 SITTM and 1 TWO.

Really, less is more with T-Tapp!

[monica213]

I agree with Trish :) SITTM and TWO are both full workouts and should not be alternated. You sould sub BWO or SATI on off days.

[rcrosby]

Thanks! I can fit that in to my crazy schedule. I had a feeling I was over doing it! This will give me time to focus on the GM/MM eating. I HATE counting calories/and or points so I am really excited to keep it simple. Thank you so much for your help!

PS I saw your picture on your website! I am SO jealous, but also very encouraged. I turn 41 this year and the last 5 to 6 years I have been struggling with my weight and thought it was hopless!

[vmalott]

OK, here's my question:
Which workout would best help with a spare tire *above* the navel???

I've been pleased with my inch loss since starting the beginning of March. However, I seem to have a really stubborn area above my navel. I'm a combo with short torso tendencies and have given birth to seven children. My natural waist, which is right around the navel, has seen inch loss, but the part above it is quite doughy. It seems like this spare tire area has been more of a problem for me since #7 was born 2 years ago.

My workout is basically BWO+, sometimes I'll do TWO if I have time (or I split it up into shorter workouts, as per Trisch's suggestion). I'm trying to be conscious of my form, curling the core, etc. I also try to zip things up when I'm in the car driving or sitting at my desk. There are times when working out, though, when I realize I'm losing form in this area. During PBS is one of those times, when my hands are clasped behind my back. Any tips?

The good part, though, is when I was looking at my problem area this morning in the mirror, and I curled my core, I could see the beginning of some definition on the sides. I'm considering getting HTF.

[monica213]

Besdies curling the core and keeping the ribs lifted, you really need to focus on exhaling FULLY before all twisting moves (JT, TTT, TT, APP) This will help to strengthen and reduce your rib cage which has become lax from the pregnancies. It will take time, but YOU CAN do it! Definitely add HTF 1 - 2 times per week to strengthen the core. Above all remain consistent.

[crissykay]

I have a question about "pressing the ball joint." Yes or No? I think that Teresa says NOT to in a part of BROOM. I know that she also says TO press ball joint sometimes. I am confused.:dontknow: Maybe I am hearing things wrong. What should my feet be doing when?

[joyfulmom26]

Can someone clarify?

B/R...BWO2...TWO are all the same thing?

[Clarity]

Polly
this might help you...

http://forum.t-tapp.com/showthread.php?t=60844&highlight=acronym

[joyfulmom26]

Thank you Clarity!

[Clarity]

Anytime! ;)

[just7]

OK, here's my question:
Which workout would best help with a spare tire *above* the navel???

I've been pleased with my inch loss since starting the beginning of March. However, I seem to have a really stubborn area above my navel. I'm a combo with short torso tendencies and have given birth to seven children. My natural waist, which is right around the navel, has seen inch loss, but the part above it is quite doughy. It seems like this spare tire area has been more of a problem for me since #7 was born 2 years ago.

My workout is basically BWO+, sometimes I'll do TWO if I have time (or I split it up into shorter workouts, as per Trisch's suggestion). I'm trying to be conscious of my form, curling the core, etc. I also try to zip things up when I'm in the car driving or sitting at my desk. There are times when working out, though, when I realize I'm losing form in this area. During PBS is one of those times, when my hands are clasped behind my back. Any tips?

The good part, though, is when I was looking at my problem area this morning in the mirror, and I curled my core, I could see the beginning of some definition on the sides. I'm considering getting HTF.

Valerie, I just wanted to say that Michelle is so right on! That is what she told me to do and that upper "bulge" is getting smaller all the time. My #7 is 8 and I have that upper and lower thing going on. Like you said---it is neat to finally seeing some definition along the sides! It does take time and that's okay. Once it is gone, it will stay gone!

[vmalott]

Thanks Michelle. And thanks Jennifer for chiming in too!

[BlessedMama]

Yep! Michelle knows her stuff! ;) And as you get stronger, you'll lift the ribs more consistently. I can't believe how much that is helping in the muffin area! :D

[crissykay]

I have a question about "pressing the ball joint." Yes or No? I think that Teresa says NOT to in a part of BROOM. I know that she also says TO press ball joint sometimes. I am confused.:dontknow: Maybe I am hearing things wrong. What should my feet be doing when?

Anyone have any input?

[monica213]

Hi Crystal,

Pressing the BBJ is a progression, not for everyone. It helps to stabilize the ankles once you get strong enough to press the knees 3 inches past KLT or start to roll on the ankles. People with PF should never implement BBJ. When using KLT to walk it is pressing off of the last three toes. So in short, BBJ is a tweak used during the standing workouts, not with the walking or step workouts, and not for people with PF. Does this help?

[crissykay]

Thanks, Michelle. Yes, that helps!:)

[gabella]

I have a question about having toes completely forward. If I point my toes forward, my knees go knock-kneed. As I bend, they go towards each other and then will straightened out again. I've always been like this, so it's not just age affecting me (not that i'm not old...). I also have scoliosis. Is pointing my toes forward something that I should still be striving for even though my knee alignment is off?

Also, the piriformis in my left hip seems to be agitated when doing the t-tapp twist. I'm working hard to keep my hips facing forward and still during the move. The pain is worse when I pulse twice to the right before moving back to the left to bend down. Any suggestions?

Thank you!