M7 in 12 to 14 minutes question

[MikeNY]

A friend of mine was telling me completes the M7 in 12 to 14 minutes total time. He'd thought he was doing it in four or five minutes for 8 reps hard and two sets for each exercise. He had adopted my 8 hard reps and two sets; he likes that combo. He asked if he is doing too fast, he see's results. I told him if that is what his body wants to listen too it and enjoy it. As long as he is getting great results in 12 to 14 minutes that is fine.

I'd thought I was taking maybe five minutes and was stunned each time I use a clock, it is always about 20 to 21 minutes for the whole rountine. I always had in the 13 Commander isometrics and sometimes 18 isometric Power flexs too. Just getting over a sprained ankle so I'm being careful. I have substituted VRt a few times for the M7, I like VRT; Great pump!

[mts]

I think I'm typically over 20 minutes when I do it all at once. When I'm using M7, as I have been this week, I tend to do a set here and ther throughout the day rather than a full session of the whole routine.

[MikeNY]

Just the M7 rountine alone takes me 20 to 21 minutes. I always add in Isometrics for additional time and usually a further 18 Isometric Power Flexs.

[Hank_Z]

I think I'm typically over 20 minutes when I do it all at once. When I'm using M7, as I have been this week, I tend to do a set here and ther throughout the day rather than a full session of the whole routine.

I think I'll also do my M7s during different parts of the day. For whatever reason, I really struggle even when I'm using what seems to be "moderate" tension.

It's far easier for me to gauge my intensity when I'm doing VRTs and using tension in one direction only...compared to using tension in both directions of M7s. And I find VRTs a heckuva lot more enjoyable. I know that M7-type workouts have produced great results for people like Charles Atlas, John Peterson, and others.

I haven't been able to yet a way to feel good about doing them. I really dislike doing them. Since I don't look forward to doing them, have no enjoyment while doing them, and don't feel good afterwards...I'm thinking I'm either using too much tension or that type of exercise just isn't for me at this point in my training.

I love absolutely love doing VRTs (tension in only one direction) and Iso Power Flexes. And I enjoy CICs.

[blackbelt]

I’m sorry. But, I almost find myself chuckling here. In all reality, the ONLY difference between VRT and M7 are the movements themselves. Yes, in the M7 book, John and Wendie prescribe the tension should be done in both directions. BUT, John has said often that you should perform the moves in a manner that feels good to YOU.

That being said, have you tried doing the M7 exercises in a more broken down manner? I mean, only use tension in one direction on each “move”. From what you’ve said, I’d be surprised if you didn’t find that you enjoyed doing them more that way.

[Hank_Z]

Thanks, Rob. I'll give the M7s a try the way you suggest and see what happens.

I appreciate the feedback from someone as experienced as you.

Hank

[MikeNY]

Rob great idea!

I've used VRT with tension in both directions, one direction also; I experiement. DVRs the M7 always felt right for me.

[MikeNY]

Hank I must say Rob is correct; VRT and DVR are exactly the same thing, just differnt movements. So you have already mastered it, it just looks a little differnt.