Comments for Venus Index

Comment on Overcoming Emotional Eating: Reprogramming Your Mind to Control Your Weight by deanneh

deanneh — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:53:43 +0000

Thank you John and Dr. Nicola! This podcast was SO ENLIGHTENING! What really hit home for me was the concept of being self-critical and I received an “aha moment” while listening that I never let go of that during my transformation and it has been making maintenance so challenging mentally.

Now I am aware, and I can begin to let that go… and begin to truly connect and feel that I am worth being taken care of!

Comment on How Liss’s Data Saves the Day by Erin Palacio

Erin Palacio — Tue, 14 May 2013 13:54:21 +0000

You are an inspiration! Love your dedication to a healthy lifestyle! It is rubbing off on me!

Comment on Kiya Learned The 1200 Calorie Myth Does Not Work For Small Females; She Lost 110 Pounds by Franchesca

Franchesca — Mon, 13 May 2013 20:41:17 +0000

AWESOME work Kiya…. you are so pretty!! Enjoy maintenance!!

Comment on How Liss’s Data Saves the Day by ANA GOMEZ

ANA GOMEZ — Mon, 13 May 2013 14:33:00 +0000

~ Liss, definitely, knowledge is power….. everyday, since the day we met, I learn from you, that learning helps me keep my weight under control,… this article is no different. Thanks for being such an inspiration….

Comment on The Aztec Venus Story; Fit And Fabulous At Age 44 by Franchesca P

Franchesca P — Sat, 11 May 2013 08:34:51 +0000

Congratulations Barbera!! Great pics and great transformation!!

Comment on VT7 12-Week Transformation Winners Announced by Franchesca P

Franchesca P — Sat, 11 May 2013 07:35:05 +0000

Great transformations ladies…Great effort and wonderful rewards!

Comment on How Liss’s Data Saves the Day by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Fri, 10 May 2013 12:12:26 +0000

You are awesome Liss

Comment on The Aztec Venus Story; Fit And Fabulous At Age 44 by Laura

Laura — Tue, 07 May 2013 13:16:57 +0000

Wow, what an inspiring story! Congratulations, Barbara on winning the contest and on your baby! Two very happy endings for you! (or maybe two happy beginnings).

Comment on VT7 12-Week Transformation Winners Announced by Laura

Laura — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:25:49 +0000

Wow, amazing work, ladies!

Comment on VT7 12-Week Transformation Winners Announced by Kiya

Kiya — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:02:26 +0000

CONGRATS to EVERYONE!!! Y’all look AMAZING!

Comment on Successful Weight Loss; There Are No Shortcuts by Lea Ann

Lea Ann — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:58:12 +0000

Thank you so much. Advise will be put to use. I am ordering today. HAVE AN AWESOME DAY !!!

Comment on Successful Weight Loss; There Are No Shortcuts by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 06:15:30 +0000

Lea Ann I had the same concerns as you when I started VI. I had been lifting heavy for 30 years; bench press, squat rack, mostly everything with the Oly bar and big plates. It was hard to wrap my mind around little dumb bells, raises and combo moves. When I started VI phase 1 and started the lateral raises and step up and press I was like “whaaaaaa..” LOL But honestly it gave me a better shape. I recommend starting with phase one and finishing it as is, and you can use still use the squat rack for squats, Oly bar for bench press and bent row. Then move to phase 2 where you can really lift heavy. If you are a heavy lifter like me you will probably not go back to phase 1 much, but I highly recommend doing it before phase 2. Even after my heavy lifting phase 1 made me very sore, especially at the beginning and then later in cycle 3. These workouts changed my shape and defined my muscles like nothing else ever before.

Comment on Successful Weight Loss; There Are No Shortcuts by Lea Ann

Lea Ann — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 22:15:43 +0000

I’m thinking for purchasing the VI system. I have a question. I have been lifting heavy for about 1.5 years and I am a little concerned about the amount of weight of lack there of on exercises like the step ups and squats because they are a combo move(squat with lateral raises and step ups with shoulder raises). I am use to doing about 70lbs smith machine squats and using 50lb barbell on stepups. I guess I’m worried about losing muscle and strenght that I have built. Will this happen or do I just need to go with it? I still NEED to lose a little more fat. You look awesome and I want to get there. I’m not far off from my measurements. Sorry for the the rambling.

Comment on En Route Train Stop; The Venus Transformation Contest by Naomi

Naomi — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:31:06 +0000

Great advice as always, Ro!

Comment on Successful Weight Loss; There Are No Shortcuts by Kimberley Dransfield

Kimberley Dransfield — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 03:04:30 +0000

So true it is as simple as eating less. But it is not easy. We all have to find a way to do this, there will be times when you are hungry. It is just like a mortgage debt. You have to tighten your belt and just spend less now in order to pay back. But what you get at the end of the process is a body that is in great shape.

Comment on Successful Weight Loss; There Are No Shortcuts by Kelley

Kelley — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:44:36 +0000

Ro, this was a great article!!! You are so right on with everything you talked about. I’m experiencing the same things you did as I make my way along this journey.

Comment on Successful Weight Loss; There Are No Shortcuts by Naomi

Naomi — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 21:15:56 +0000

That’s too funny! I can just hear you saying that and picture everyone cracking up!

Comment on Successful Weight Loss; There Are No Shortcuts by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:28:24 +0000

Thank you Concetta… now, if it didn’t take me 15 years to learn that..

Comment on Successful Weight Loss; There Are No Shortcuts by Concetta

Concetta — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:13:36 +0000

“Too much food is too much food, it doesn’t matter how clean it is.”
Congratulations Ro. Truer words have not been spoken. It is as simple and as hard as that.

Comment on Poison Persuasion by Kimberley Dransfield

Kimberley Dransfield — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 00:46:37 +0000

This is a great article Heather. It is true that we all suffer from distorted and ‘poisoned’ thinking when it comes to ourselves. The physical process of losing weight and building muscle is hard enough, and like you I am thankful to have the support of the community for support and wisdom. As always, you inspire me.

Comment on Poison Persuasion by Erin

Erin — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 00:44:50 +0000

Heather! It is just beautiful how you wrote! Thank you very much for writing about how we sabotage ourselves by just isolating and trying our own way which does not work most of the times. I was laughed at being obese since I was 9 year old. And I used to feel the same way!! Even I lost weight, I used to eat up to back to my familiar weight because “it was not me.” I love what you stated about failure. Yes, victories are wonderful, but we have many failures that we need to keep our head up and learn from it, and move on. Thomas Edison said, I did not fail, I just found thousands of ways that did not work.” Just like that I order to have victories, there need to have vision of goal. Yet, as a girl, woman, I listened so many poisonous self negative talk. You put into word that describes it so well. Now it is under the light. Poison can be destroyed. I am truly grateful to have you as a part of vinous family!

Comment on Poison Persuasion by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 23:17:57 +0000

From hopeless to hopeful.. we love having you as part of our community Heather.

Comment on Poison Persuasion by Laura

Laura — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 18:20:49 +0000

Heather! I love to see you writing here! I’ve always loved your posts in the community. You have so much wisdom to share. This is a really great article. I am still working on mastering my mindset as well. Such a tough process. But essential. Great tips in this post. Thanks for sharing!

Comment on Poison Persuasion by Naomi

Naomi — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 17:24:56 +0000

Heather, what a wonderful and inspiring blog. I always love your wisdom and I love watching you continue to succeed.

Comment on Poison Persuasion by Kiani

Kiani — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 17:21:50 +0000

At times, our negative thinking and distorted views of ourselves can indeed be compared to poison. Thank you, Heather, for this article and for reminding me of things I know but seem to apply to everyone else but myself. I have heard an expression that “we are our worst critics,” and though I have the support of my wonderful friend Jenn who serves as a large dose of positivity and encouragement, I occasionally battle with the negative mindset of not being ______ enough. Support from like-minded individuals can truly be helpful and help us re-focus when we begin to veer off in the wrong mode of thinking. I wish you nothing but success in your endeavors and congratulate you on the 100+ lb. loss. Amazing!

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 1: Posing Practice by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Sun, 17 Mar 2013 02:28:08 +0000

Thanks Naomi. I’ve seen some beautiful bikini girls do that exact pose at the one show I visited.. bikini shape and very beautiful.

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 2: Photography And Lighting by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 15:40:48 +0000

You bet. Any time. We can all convene in Australia for a few weeks of training and photo prep time while working our jobs remotely… wouldn’t that be fun.

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 2: Photography And Lighting by Kimberley Dransfield

Kimberley Dransfield — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 05:08:19 +0000

Another great article Ro. Thanks for sharing all your insights and experience. I know who is going to coach me next time…..partner.

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 2: Photography And Lighting by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 22:40:51 +0000

You are quite welcome Kiani!

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 2: Photography And Lighting by Kiani

Kiani — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 21:22:34 +0000

Thank you for another insightful and informative post! Seeing your progress through pictures always serves as inspiration to me. Thank you, once again!

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 2: Photography And Lighting by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 20:07:56 +0000

Hey there Pilar Someone from our little gym! Have an awesome weekend.

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 2: Photography And Lighting by Pilar

Pilar — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 19:13:55 +0000

Hi Roberta! Great article, thank you so much, you are such a great inspiration! Especially for women of our age, who thought they could never have the body they had in the twenties. I’m not where you are now, but your upbeat nature and dedication have been an inspiration to me.
Thanks again, see you at the gym!

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 2: Photography And Lighting by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:54:09 +0000

Thank you Lisa. I’m just hoping it helps others. I got help, just like you saving my “discarded” picture LOL

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 2: Photography And Lighting by Lisa

Lisa — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:34:24 +0000

Great follow up Ro – another ‘gem’ of an article. Your dedication to all of our successes shines through.

Thanks for putting the time and effort in writing such a detailed accounting of how to make it all come together. Especially when you show us the before and afters of your cropping… who would’ve known that!? Great stuff.

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 1: Posing Practice by Lisa

Lisa — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 12:21:52 +0000

Ro – excellent article. The venus ladies are lucky to have you as a mentor. Your dedication and commitment to helping venus ladies succeed is inspiring. Thank you for all that you do ’round here.

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 1: Posing Practice by Moxi

Moxi — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 21:38:55 +0000

I never realized there was so much to think about when posing. I knew there was thought but I never really understood the depth. This really puts in in perspective! It inspires me to practice and get some pictures done.

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 1: Posing Practice by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 15:07:45 +0000

You are quite welcome Rose.

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 1: Posing Practice by rose simpson

rose simpson — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:59:25 +0000

thanks!

Comment on Preparing For Your Contest Photo Shoot – Part 1: Posing Practice by Naomi

Naomi — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 11:34:32 +0000

BRILLIANT article, Ro! Judy is amazing for having helped out like that. She also pointed me to bodybuilding.com and the amazing women there. There are different sections there for bikini and fitness and I just wanted to point out that certain poses may flatter one more based upon body type. The back pose you show above works beautifully on your more muscular frame. In my contest photos, I have to take a different approach, accentuating different strength individual to my build. I agree back shots are the most difficult because none of us have any idea what we look like from behind.

It can work to use a camera timer and indeed I did this for my first few contests but having a photographer, even if it’s not a profesional, really helps so long as they are supportive. Once Al, my husband had gone through two contests himself, he was able to help me with my photos. It’s still exhausting!

A note on smiles. I agree that older women pretty much have to go with a smile over a sexy pout but it is possible to communicate even while posed. Developing short signals and learning to talk in that smile really help the process.

Comment on How To Survive Years Of Fad Diet Yo-yo’s And Finally Succeed. by rose simpson

rose simpson — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 22:24:31 +0000

Awesome!! So true and funny!! You look Great Lori!! What were your measurements before and after?

Comment on How To Survive Years Of Fad Diet Yo-yo’s And Finally Succeed. by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 19:17:16 +0000

Lori writes a good story full of wisdom and humor and her web link has some great pictures. It is amazing that no matter where we are on this journey and no matter how successful we are, we can always learn from others experiences. It confirms and makes us stronger. Thank you Lori for sharing your story.

Comment on How To Survive Years Of Fad Diet Yo-yo’s And Finally Succeed. by Brian

Brian — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 18:53:55 +0000

As a male follower of the AI and VI sites, I was once again inspired by another success story for the record book. I really, really wanted to focus on appreciating the advice and other content you wrote in your essay (which I did). However, I too quickly found my thoughts becoming disjointed and unfocussed altogether. Viewing your transformation site reduced me to little more than babbling idiot. Way to go and congratulations! Smoking hot, beautifully sculpted work of art would be an understatement.

Comment on How To Survive Years Of Fad Diet Yo-yo’s And Finally Succeed. by Naomi

Naomi — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:00:51 +0000

“Donuts don’t make a people fat, people make themselves fat. ” Best. Quote. Ever.
I never thought I’d eat donuts. It’s not something I’ve ever done. But everyone here raves about Krispy Kreme and when their sign gets lit up, the fresh donuts are so amazing. We have gone about 4 times in the last year and each had 1/2 donut. Yup, they’re pretty good. Can’t wait to listen to more of your wonderful wisdom. Congratulations, Lori! You look amazing!

Comment on The Girl Who Gets To Wear Cute Clothes Into Her 50′s by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:27:40 +0000

The formulas are in the manuals that come with Venus Index and you can find them on bradpilon.com in an article about ideal measurements.

Comment on The Girl Who Gets To Wear Cute Clothes Into Her 50′s by Diane Richards

Diane Richards — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 01:01:05 +0000

I’d like to know how you measure muscle mass as I was reading about in John’s transcript of his podcast. Where do I get an article about where to measure and his whole formula?

Thanks in advance.

Comment on The Girl Who Gets To Wear Cute Clothes Into Her 50′s by Naomi Sandoval

Naomi Sandoval — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 21:46:28 +0000

Gorgeous, Terry. So happy for you. Well done.

Comment on The Girl Who Gets To Wear Cute Clothes Into Her 50′s by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 16:18:27 +0000

Terry is a absolute JOY. I loved her interview.

Comment on After Pregnancy, Wins Transformation Contest by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 04:05:02 +0000

Wishing you the best Deb. Stay in touch during this next new season in your life. It sounds like there are a few of the the girls in the community who have been there. -Ro

Comment on Are You Running To Stay In The Same Place? by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 03:40:47 +0000

Yes, we all have our seasons in life. Just do the best you can and move on. No whining, no excuses, just do it. Nice post.

Comment on After Pregnancy, Wins Transformation Contest by Deb

Deb — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 12:44:59 +0000

Thanks Shannon, I’ve been going back through the podcasts and this one resonates with me since I’m 14 weeks pregnant and determined to stay as close as possible to my fitness goals and keep my weight down! I too put on loads of weight with my other pregnancies and don’t want to have to go right back to the start. Thanks for your ideas. I know we are all different,especially during pregnancy, but I will use some of the suggestions you have made here to keep me on track. x

Comment on Married to Adonis by Jason

Jason — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 01:47:39 +0000

Hi Kimberly,

I too am a fellow Australian working and living in Hong Kong… using the Adonis Golden Ratio program.

Can you tell me where one can go for a Dexa scan?

Comment on An Original Venus Who Never Gives Up by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 14:50:59 +0000

Tina has been rock solid in her commitment to the program and it shows. She is steady as can be and proof that slow and steady does win the race.

Comment on The Creation of a Masterpiece: The Venus by Ana Gomez

Ana Gomez — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 23:59:41 +0000

Liss, you are my inspiration, You know I never miss a class at the gym, and this article is just off the hook….Way to go… !

Comment on Married to Adonis by Kimberley Dransfield

Kimberley Dransfield — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 22:18:32 +0000

Thanks Ro.

Comment on Married to Adonis by Roberta Saum

Roberta Saum — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 12:42:59 +0000

Kimberley is an every day Venus for sure, on top of her physical game.