Monday, August 23, 2010

Setting Goals & Staying Focused

Setting Goals & Staying Focused
By Beth H : Woodstock's Fit Body Bootcamper

I've always considered myself fairly healthy. While never an “exercise junkie,” I've always been active and aware of my diet – I rarely eat meat and try to watch what I eat.

In my teens and 20s, during the Flashdance! Generation, high-impact, knee-pounding exercise was all the rage... complete with cropped t-shirt, headband and matching scrunchie and leg-warmers. (What were we THINKING?)

In my 30s, with two small children running around, toddler-chasing was my primary form of “exercise,” although I'd load the kids up in the stroller a few nights each week and tackle the hills in my subdivision. Charity walks were my big thing during that time as well, and I felt good to walk-run a 5k and claim my t-shirt at the finish line.

At 40 I realized that the health issues I'd started developing – stress, hypertension, stiff joints and insomnia – weren't necessarily age-related. They were a direct result of my lack of a regular exercise regimen. I didn't want the “middle-age spread,” which I noticed with alarming regularity in my peer group in the carpool line or at the grocery store. I also realized that my clothing size had slowly crept upward and I was now wearing double-digits in pants... not good!

So I started walking regularly. My dog loved it, I met the neighbors and I started feeling better about myself. But my weight wasn't changing and my waist size wouldn't budge. I accepted that I was middle-aged and that I had attained a new “set-point.” (Amazing what we tell ourselves!)

I was at a women's networking event one evening and won a month's trial of a new fitness regimen that I'd been hearing so much about: FitBody Boot Camp. This Boot Camp was indoors! I thought, “I can do anything for a month,” and I designated the next 30 days as my fitness do-or-die time, setting the alarm for 5:15 a.m. and commuting to the gymnastics facility to work out with my new peer group.

Although the workouts were very difficult at first, I was hooked. After just a week, I felt stronger than I had in a very long time, and inches were coming off. I hadn't lost an ounce of weight, but I was standing up straighter, I had more energy and I was sleeping better. So I decided to continue.

After two months, I had finally lost weight – more than 11 pounds! And my body looked good. My double-digit clothing was now too big, and I retrieved the old Size 8's from the back of my closet.

In March, I ran another 5k – and this time I ran the whole time! So I set my sights on a huge goal: running the Peachtree Road Race.

Over the next several months, I participated in FitBody Boot Camp three or four (sometimes five) days each week, and felt a huge difference in my overall wellness. My blood pressure dropped to what it was prior to my having kids and I had lost nearly 20 pounds; I felt calmer, experienced less stiffness and slept better than I had in years! And by the time 5:15 rolled around each day, I was “raring to go!”

I turned 44 on the 4th of July, and I gave myself the most incredible gift: running my first Peachtree Road Race. What a party! I told myself that I would just run the best I could, walk if I had to up the hills (never stop running when you're going downhill! It's a personal rule!) and make it to the finish line smiling. Well, I ran the whole 6.2 – and I was smiling as I crossed the finish line!

Nothing can compare to attaining a goal like that. The pride, the energy, the congratulations from family and friends! I'm recruiting folks to run with me next year – and I'm grateful for the group of us from FitBody Boot Camp-Woodstock who ran together this year.

My goal when I started my fitness regimen was to increase my stamina enough to run a 5k, then the Peachtree. My new goal is to be as healthy and active in my 60s and 70s as I am today. I'm laying the groundwork now, and I realize that a daily workout commitment is key to helping me attain my goals.

I know folks who work out at home, others who go to a big-box gym, and some who prefer to do like I do and attend Boot Camp or work out in a small group or with a personal trainer (Stacy does that too, by the way!). Whatever your preference, make sure it's something you enjoy. You'll experience better results and come up with fewer excuses!

Beth H.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Mean & Clean Burrito

Mean & Clean Burrito
Here's a healthy burrito recipe to sink your teeth into. Whole grains, lean protein and crunchy veggies make this a recipe that you'll come back to time and again. Serve with a side of your favorite salsa.
Servings: 1

Here's what you need...

•1 sprouted grain, flourless tortilla
•1 Tablespoon hummus
•1/3 cup cooked brown rice
•1/4 cup cooked black beans
•1/2 cup cooked chicken, chopped (or baked tofu)
•2 Tablespoons fresh corn kernels
•2 Tablespoons chopped cucumber
•1/4 cup shredded arugula
•3 cherry tomatoes, chopped
1.Warm the tortilla in a dry skillet. Spread the hummus evenly over the tortilla.
2.Top the tortilla with rice, beans, chicken and veggies.
3.Fold the two sides of the tortilla in over the filling, then flip up the bottom edge and roll tightly.
Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 380 calories, 7.8g fat, 45g carbohydrate, 7g fiber, and 31g protein.

Burn Fat Faster

Tactics for Faster Results
Have you ever been frustrated over a lack of results from your workout routine?

If so, you are in good company. Even the most seasoned athletes experience times when their results plateau.

When you continue to put in the same effort day after day with little or no results it is safe to say that you've hit your own fitness plateau.

Your body adapts quickly to any repetitive routine. The definition of 'insanity' is to do the same thing over and over while expecting different results. This holds true for your workouts. When your results stop then it's time to do something new.

I have good news - the following 4 tactics are guaranteed to crank your workouts up to the next level and to deliver the fast results you want.

Tactic #1: Focus on Negatives

Each time that you do a weight lifting repetition you are utilizing three types of strength. These are:

1.Positive strength: the motion of lifting the weight.
2.Static strength: holding weight in a contracted position.
3.Negative strength: the motion of lowering the weight.
Most people completely miss the benefit of the negative in each repetition by allowing the weight to drop quickly with little control. It is understood that the negative portion of a repetition is just as important as the positive portion, and possibly more important.

Focus on the negative portion of each repetition by lowering the weight very slowly. Concentrate on the negative contraction, and make each repetition count.

If you are advanced, then use a training partner to assist you in moving heavier-than-normal weight into a contracted position, then lower it very slowly.

Another way to utilize negative repetitions on a machine is to lift the weight using two limbs but then lower it with just one. For example, use both legs to lift the weight on a leg extension machine, but then lower it back down slowly using only one leg.

Tactic #2: Do a Drop Set

Drop sets have long been used to fight off exercise plateaus. This technique is great for adding muscle strength, endurance and for increasing the cardiovascular benefit of your workout – resulting in more fat burn.

Here, in a nutshell, is how to do a drop set: When you perform an exercise to exhaustion, don't stop there. Drop the weight by 80% and do another set.

You could take it a step further by dropping the weight twice, making it a double drop. Or drop the weight three times for a descending drop set.

Use this technique only once or twice per workout, on the final set of the exercise.

Tactic #3: Modify the Exercise

There are certain exercises that are considered 'staples' in the gym.

The squat. The lunge. The chest press. The shoulder press. The bicep curl. You get the idea…

While you shouldn't throw these exercises out the window, find creative ways to modify the familiar motion in order to challenge your muscles. Try these exercise modifications:

•Squat on a Bosu ball or balance board.
•Place a weighted bar across your shoulders and do walking lunges.
•Use an exercise ball for chest presses instead of the bench.
•Do a full squat between each repetition of shoulder presses.
•Do a shoulder press between each repetition of bicep curls.
Tactic #4: Use Active Rest to turn each workout into High Intensity Interval Training

Every minute of your workout is an opportunity to increase intensity and to burn more fat. Don't waste precious minutes with long rest periods between exercises.

While it is important to catch your breath if you feel winded, most of the time you would benefit more from an active rest than a passive one. Perform one of the following activities for 30 seconds between exercises and turn your regular workout into High Intensity Interval Training.

•High Knees with Alternating Punches: Alternately bring each knee high to your chest in a quick jumping movement while alternating forward punches at shoulder level.
•Burpees: Start in a sanding position and bend at the waist. Once your hands hit the floor, push your entire body back, extending your legs until they're straight and you're in the push-up position. Go down for a push-up, and when you push yourself up, jump slightly to bring your feet back near your hands. Finally, jump in the air with your arms fully extended over your head.
•Side-to-Side Jumps on Bench: Stand on one side of an exercise bench. Place the foot closest up onto the bench, jump up and switch feet, then land on the opposite side of the bench.
•Mountain Climbers: Place your hands wider than shoulder-width apart on the ground in a push-up position. Bring one knee to your chest and then back to the starting position, alternate each leg quickly.
•Side-to-Side Ab Twists: With feet close together, jump and twist your legs left to right – holding your abs tight. Keep a bend in your knees and swing your upper arms with each twist.
•Jump Lunges with Pop Squat: Start in a lunge position, lunge down then quickly jump up, switching your leg position in midair, land in an opposite leg lunge. Once you've done both legs, jump straight into a squat.
•Medicine Ball Squat Jumps: With feet wider than shoulder-width apart hold a medicine ball at chest level. Squat down until your knees are at a 90 degree angle. Explosively jump up, raising the medicine ball straight over your head.
If you'd like a sure-fire way to break through your fitness plateau and to melt away unwanted fat, then contact me for a fitness consultation.

Call or email today – I look forward to hearing from you.

Friday, July 9, 2010

Preparing for Race day..





It's summertime and the calendars are full of athletic events – 5k, 10k, Triathlon and more.

Even those who train regularly must pay more close attention to their body's warning signs in excessive heat, and should be certain that they train adequately to prepare their body for running in hotter weather.

Experts recommend building up your body's tolerance for hot weather running by spending a few weeks ahead of your race running shorter distances and gradually building up to the mileage you will need to run your race. They advise running in the morning or evening, when the humidity is at lower levels – and always pay attention to smog alerts, as pollution can make training more difficult.

Prior to any run, be sure to drink plenty of fluids. Hydrate within an hour of your workout, then take another drink every 20 minutes while you run. Sports drinks and protein drinks can help replenish electrolytes lost during a run, but whatever you choose, be sure to drink plenty after your run as well to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

As with any exercise, be sure to stretch before (and after) you run to allow your muscles to prepare for the stress of the run and help you avoid injury. We're all familiar with hamstring and calf stretches, but it's important to stretch the upper-body as well.

Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing for your run, preferably in light colors. A tank top or shirt made specifically for running in the heat is more desirable than a t-shirt, which can trap perspiration. And be sure to always wear socks made of synthetic fibers to wick away moisture, helping you to avoid blisters and athlete's foot. If you purchase new running shoes, break them in over several short runs to avoid injury – including blisters – during your race.

Don't wear a hat. As most of your body's heat is lost through the top of your head, covering your head will result in trapping the heat and making you more uncomfortable. Do pour water over your head to cool down, if necessary.

Wear sunscreen for your race, and be aware of areas that may normally be covered by a t-shirt if you have switched to a tank top or singlet, but be aware that some sunscreens can actually slow down perspiration and increase your core body temperature.

Use common sense when running in hotter temperatures. Don't push yourself to be as fast or go as far as you usually do. Symptoms of heat disease include an intense headache, nausea, disorientation or confusion, sudden muscle weakness, sudden cessation of sweating, feeling chilled or faint, abnormally rapid breathing and unusual heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop, find shade or air conditioning and call for help.

Remember, your race should be an enjoyable experience. Preparing ahead of time will make it more fun and help you avoid injury.

Happy running!

For anyone who would like to run in a fun 5k for a great cause in Canton,Ga. check out the race on July 24th at Boling park..some of our bootcampers will be in this one..Etowah River Run Road & Trail 5K Benefiting Anna Crawford Children's Center
Date: Saturday, July 24, 2010
Time: 8:00am - 6:30pm
Location: Boling Park-Cherokee High School- 930 Marietta Hwy, Canton GA 30114

Sunday, May 16, 2010





















FUN CAMPS AND PROGRAMS FOR THE FAMILY!

Starting June1st-thru the summer World campus will offer daily summer camps for the kids or babysitting and drop off rate to attend Fit Body Fitness classes on Monday –Wednesday- Friday from 9-10am. Children for drop off rate must be 6 months or older and must reserve space ahead of time for the hour. Prices for drop off are $3.00 for under 3yrs. and $5.00 for children 4yrs and up.

Fitness classes are for adults and children ages 13 and up. Parents must attend classes with children under 16years of age. Fitness classes are designed for cardio conditioning, fat burning, strength and endurance. This is a fun but challenging way to get into great shape. We will incorporate running drills, speed, agility training, bodyweight, kettle bells, bands, weights, and fun challenges that will have you burning over 700 calories in less than 45min. The program includes coaching and healthy eating meal plans for the family. Whatever your goals may be we will design the right program for you. This personalized program is a fraction of the cost for personal training and gives you better results.

Come join the group camradiere and support of our boot camp and have the body you desire this summer while your children play in the foam pit and bounce house with their friends.

For more information on the summer camps for kids please contact World Campus at 770-516-6898. For boot camp info call Stacy at 678-881-9881.

Friday, May 14, 2010

The Skinny on Sugar Addiction

The Skinny on Sugar Addiction

When I think of addiction, I go right to alcohol or drugs. But one of the most common (and most dangerous) addictions is sugar addiction.
Like most narcotics, eating a diet high in sugar gives you a “high,” and can help to mask negative feelings like loneliness, depression, resentment, or fear. In fact, sugar has opioid or narcotic properties, meaning it acts like an endorphin in your body. But, like any drug, this lift is short-lived, and soon you need more and more sugar to achieve the same effect.

There is also physical withdrawal from sugar. Need to break sugar addicions from the onset. And within four to five days, many of the participants experience sugar withdrawal. This can take the form of shaking, anxiety, low energy, and extreme cravings as they come off sugar. And research has shown this detox to be very real.
In a study published in the June 2002 issue of Obesity Research, scientists deprived rats of food for 12 hours, then fed them a glucose solution for the next 12 hours. Withdrawal was then induced using either 24 hours of food deprivation or the withdrawal drug naloxone. In both cases, the rats showed signs of withdrawal, including teeth chattering, shaking, and tremors. Researchers concluded that withdrawal from repeated, excessive sugar intake created symptoms that were similar to those of withdrawal from morphine and nicotine.

Sugar Wreaks Havoc on Female Hormones
Sugar depletes your body of important nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. This leaching actually leads to cravings and binges as your body desperately seeks to replenish the nutrients that have been taken away.
It also increases estrogen levels, which can exacerbate estrogen dominance and worsen menopause symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, and other menopause problems.
Sugar Sabotages Weight LossIf you have a few extra pounds you have been fighting to lose, then sugar may be the culprit. Sugar is a born enemy of natural weight loss. Sugar contributes to false fat, increases inflammation, and can worsen digestive problems. It also provides empty calories, meaning you tend to overeat sugary, starchy foods without ever really feeling full and satisfied.
So, if you are looking to lose weight, reduce the appearance of cellulite, and regain appetite control, cut the sugar…today!
Sugar Damages Your SkinSugary foods overstimulate your sebaceous glands and can trigger excess oil production. They can also contribute to blood sugar imbalances, which can worsen symptoms of anxiety and stress, both of which can lead to breakouts. Who needs acne at our age!
Sugar also has a vasoconstrictive effect, which translates to decreased circulation to the skin. This can lead to wrinkles and sallow-looking skin. So wrinkle-free skin is your goal, then losing the sugar is the best natural skin care program you can find.
Overcoming Sugar AddictionBeating any addiction can be difficult, and sugar is no different. I have found that the best way to break your sugar addiction is to go cold-turkey. This means no candy, bakery items, sugary coffee drinks, etc. Nada. Nothing.
This will take about five days to completely break. In that time, lean on fruits when you need a sweet treat, and drink lots and lots of water and herbal tea to help flush the sugar out of your system.
You can also try using to of the nutrients Dr. Lark recommends for controlling your appetite and reducing cravings. These include 5-HTP and chromium.
5-HTP is the precursor to serotonin, a critical neurotransmitter in your brain that influences mood and diminishes hunger. Take 50 mg of 5-HTP twice per day. Take it with half of an apple and 50–100 mg of vitamin B6 to facilitate uptake into the brain.
Chromium is an essential trace mineral that is necessary for controlling blood sugar and helping to reduce food cravings. Aim for 100–200 mcg of chromium picolinate once or twice per day.

Monday, May 3, 2010

Guiltless Zucchini Pasta with Turkey


Guiltless Zucchini Pasta with Turkey

Here is a guiltless way to prepare spaghetti that the whole family will love. To create angel hair noodles out of zucchini you simply need a small kitchen gadget called a spiral slicer. This ingenious tool is well worth the small investment – with it you'll quickly and easily make delicious, fiber-filled noodles.
Yield: 4 servings

Here's what you need:

•4 zucchini, ends trimmed and run through a spiral slicer
•1 teaspoon olive oil
•1/2 cup chopped onion
•3 garlic cloves, minced
•1 (20oz) package lean ground turkey
•2 cups spaghetti sauce
•Salt and pepper to taste

1.Place the spiral-sliced zucchini in a large bowl and set aside.
2.In a medium sized skillet heat the oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until soft.
3.Add the turkey to the skillet and cook until fully browned. Add the spaghetti sauce and mix until fully incorporated. Remove from heat.
4.Mix the sauce with the zucchini noodles in the large bowl and serve.

Nutritional Analysis: One serving equals: 292 calories, 8g fat, 26g carbohydrate, 5g fiber, and 27g protein.