Fitness & Coffee Sundays: Getting Ready for The Master's Hammer & Chisel

Instead of kicking off a brand new workout routine on January 1st, I'm starring it tomorrow (Jan. 4th), which is the beginning of the first full week of 2016. The workout program that I'll be starting is The Master's Hammer and Chisel (Beachbody) that will last for 8 weeks; with each workout running between 20 to 40 minutes. 

I purchased the basic package, which comes with 6 DVDs, featuring 13 different workouts (the 10-minute AB Hammer is featured on each DVD) and two bonus workouts, 21 Day Fit Extreme: Dirty 30 Extreme and Body Best: Best Total Body. Also, there is a bonus disc with a a 17-minute workout called The Master's Cardio. Additionally, there is 7 color-coded containers and a protein shaker.

You can't just jump into a program like this without some simple preparations.

Here are three tips:

Figure out your meal plans and go to the grocery store.

A healthy diet is one of the important factors into getting into shape, which was something I was lacking last year. I've already cut out the energy drinks (yes, they're horrible for your body) and replaced it my bad habit with celery (my favorite vegetable).

Make sure you have the right equipment.

The Master's Hammer and Chisel requires light to heavy dumbbells, so make sure you have several different sizes (or the adjustable kind), so you can switch to different weights during the workouts. There are some floor workouts, so if your floor isn't carpeted or if you don't have a thick rug, I would recommend getting a yoga/exercise mat.

Drink Water!

Yep, you'll need plenty of water handy while exercising. I recommend getting a 16 to 20 ounce water bottle.

Update: While my original post was written on Sunday morning, I had forgotten to publish it until today.