The Muscle Couple was just given the first update from Amanda on her progress.

We are “more than pleased” so far.

Here is her update in her own words:

—–Original Message—–

From: “BERRIDGE,AMANDA J” <aberridge@ufl.edu>

Date: Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:45:46

To: <musclecouple@gmail.com>

Subject: Update 7/23

I’m feeling better than I ever have.  Although I know I have a long way to

go, I am looking forward to getting there. All of my progress has

really been a motivator and I’m committed to getting in the

best shape of my life -to rock a figure competition. Other

people are starting to notice and comment on the results of my

hard work.

I’ve been solid on my program for the last three weeks now,

incorporating my lifting, diet, cardio and supplement schedule.

Last week, I started to see bigger gains. I’m down to 130.4 now.

(I know the scale doesn’t say everything, but it’s the easiest way

for me to put a value on my progress.) Clothes fit much better and

some of my bottoms are getting baggy. I rewarded myself last week

by getting a bathing suit that I could not even fit over my hips a

month and a half ago!  The next goal is to look good in it and I’m hoping to be able to pull it off in the

next few weeks and make a beach appearance.  Maybe I can wear it

the next time I take pictures for you guys?

In the gym, this week especially, I have been able to add weight

to almost all of my exercises. For the exercises that I cannot add

weight to quite yet, my form has improved tremendously and my reps

are much cleaner. For example, I really struggled with the hanging

knee ups at first.  Yesterday I was able to do them nice and

controlled without swinging my body whatsoever and without assistance

of a box under my feet. Another exercise I struggled with, were the

lunges.  All my reps looked clean yesterday throughout all of my sets.

Cardio’s been kicking my butt, but that’s what I want. Since I’ve

received the cardio schedule from you guys I’ve been sticking to

it. On the days I lift I do 20 minutes on the elliptical. I’ve

been able to increase the level each week and now am on level 8

(started on 5) I make sure to keep the rpm’s above 60 (most of

the time 70). On days I don’t lift I do the elliptical and then

also walk on the treadmill with an incline for thirty minutes.

A typical daily diet:

• 1st meal: one scoop whey protein and oatmeal

• 2nd meal: 4 egg whites and a veggie (broccoli usually)

• 3rd meal: 1 can tuna, 1 tsp mayo and a salad

• 4th meal: (cardio days) one scoop muscle milk or (lift days)
• muscle couple mix

• 5th meal: protein (chicken, lean red meat or fish) and a veggie

Everything’s going great! I’ve attached pictures from today.

Thanks for everything again! Let me know if I need to change

anything or if you need anymore information.

Amanda

Here is a recent picture accompanied with her “before photo”.    Pretty noticeable progress after only 5 weeks.  Pay particular attention to her midsection and her upper chest area.

Before on June 18th

After Only 5 Weeks-July 23rd!

Keep up the great work Amanda.  We are very proud of your efforts and results so far.

We look forward to your progress and next update.

MIHWCS