didn't make it through

I decided I was going to do Jillian Michaels' Burn Fat, Boost Metabolism today...only I made it to about 20 minutes before I just started scanning the rest of the DVD for a couple quick ab workouts. I was dying, my chest hurt, etc. So, I did the ab stuff, then some random yoga moves to stretch/cool down. I used to be able to make it through. Though, I must admit, when I did that I usually was pushing myself way too hard and ended up sick afterwards. today, I decided to do what I could and then when I couldn't do more, I stopped. I'd like to keep working out instead of making myself sick and stopping for months at a time again.

How do you handle intensity? And length? Building up until I can do the entire DVD, even with modified moves is better than trying to do it all in one day, I think.

I agree! You're much more likely to stick with a fitness routine if you 1) modify the moves to match your fitness level and 2) don't push to the point where you're ready to die. If you still want to finish the routine you could also pause the DVD, recover your breathing/rest a bit and then continue.....but above all else listen to your body!! You can do this! :-)

Adjust the intensity and/or take quick breaks as needed then pick back up, or do a little shorter routine and add more as you get more fit.  If you keep at it, you will build endurance quite quickly and soon will be getting thru the whole thing :)

Its hard because two years ago I was able to do the full 30 DS and still do extra pushups afterwards, remember Tina? LOL. Then, nursing school started....LOL.