Pages in Excellence

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

12 Steps to Fitness

The countdown has begun! We are only a few short days away from 2011. How will you be starting your New Year? Have you made your list of resolutions? I can tell you for sure getting fit and healthy are leading my list. Now that I have the holidays and temptation behind me, I'm ready to start off my New Year with a "can do" attitude!

This weekend I posted a video blog introducing "12 Steps to Fitness." Basically what I am going to do is a weekly series introducing a new challenge each Sunday for us to follow during the coming week. This will be a 12 week series and a step by step approach to help us get Fit and Healthy in 2011. For those of you already on track with your nutrition and fitness regimen, it will be more of a refresher course. But for those who are just starting out and ready to give up your bad habits and trade them in for healthier ones, this will be more of a habit building process to help you make better choices in the upcoming year. Sometimes it is those little changes that lead to huge success.

I know it can be overwhelming once you decide to lose weight or try to change unhealthy habits for good ones. So instead of having to concentrate on all the right things at one time, we are going to master each step one at a time! So you might think of it as climbing a mountain, one rock at a time. Now that doesn't mean you can start off your new fitness regimen with a half-hearted attitude. I still expect you to follow your nutrition and fitness guides that come with your programs. It just means we are going to pay particular attention to key steps each week that will keep your program rocking passed the 90 days! I want to help you be successful by sharing with you some basic steps to keep you on track and focused.

If you haven't already chosen a fitness program, Team Beachbody has a huge assortment of some really good programs for all levels of fitness. If your not quite sure what type of program you might want to try, be sure to check out our comparison chart. This will give you a great overall look at each program and help you align your program with the fitness goals you have in mind. I would be more than happy to answer any questions you might have about the various programs. Simply go to my website and click on the "Contact Me" button and together we'll find a program that's right for you. Even if you aren't sure what you would like to do just yet, I still want you to follow along. The tips and steps I will be sharing with you, will help you breakdown the barriers that are keeping you from reaching your fitness goals. Besides, we are all more likely to achieve our goals when we have someone keeping us accountable. So let's do this together and become each others success partner! I can even coach you for FREE!

As a special bonus, this Friday, December 31, 2010, I am going to post a special video blog on Goal Planning. To help get the most out of the video, I would like you to do a simple brainstorming exercise beforehand. Sometime this week take out a pen, blank sheet of paper and a timer. Find an area in your home or office where you will be completely uninterrupted. Set your timer for 20 minutes. During that 20 minutes I want for you to write down as many things as you can think of that you would like to accomplish during 2011. Go ahead and dream big! Let your heart lead the pen on the paper. Think along the lines of your career, health, fitness, nutrition, relationships, finances, recreation, education, etc. Whatever your heart desires. At the end of the 20 minutes, put your list away. We are going to use this list for a goal planning exercise.  So be sure to bring your list and check out my YouTube channel for details.

Instead of writing down a bunch of resolutions, let's take it one step further and turn them in to goals with an action plan! I want to make 2011 my best year ever! Hope you will join me.

Get Ready to BRING IT!

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Merry Christmas everyone! What Christmas would not be complete without the smell of fresh bake goods in the air? We got up this morning and Santa's beautifully gift wrapped treasures were quickly turned to mounds of pretty paper shreddings in an instant. Now while my little guy is playing with his new toys, I'm in the kitchen baking up a batch of chocolaty heaven. Um, I can just smell those tasty treats ready to be had! So I am going to share with you this fabulous recipe!

Gluten-free Chocolate Chip Cookies

3/4 cup Earth Balance Natural Buttery Spread
1 1/4 cup packed Brown Sugar
1/4 cup Sucanat
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
3 tsp EnerG Egg Replacer
3 tbsp Water
2 1/4 cup Brown Rice Flour
1 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Baking Soda
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
12 oz pkg Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips

Preheat oven to 375 ° F. Line 11 X 15 cooking sheet with waxed paper.

In medium bowl cream buttery spread and sugars. Gradually add in vanilla, egg replacer and water. Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Blend in with butter mixture and then stir in chocolate chips.



Drop well-rounded walnut size dough balls onto cookie sheet, approximately 2 inches apart. Bake in oven for 6-8 minutes.



Remove from oven and allow to cool on cookie sheet for 10 minutes before removing with spatula to baking rack. Allow to cool to room temperature.


Place in airtight container and store for later "yummy" attack! Enjoy. Recipe yields approximately 3 dozen cookies!


Special Note: I used brown rice flour because I like that little "snap" on my cookies where the bottom is slightly crispy and the tops are soft and gooey. You can substitute with any variety of gluten-free baking flour for a more traditional type chocolate chip cookie. Gluten Free Essentials has a large assortment of gluten-free products you might want to check out. They even have the Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix for those of you that don't like the fuss. I like to play in the kitchen and create...but this is definitely a time saver option!

Merry Christmas to all!

Friday, December 24, 2010

Chickpea Kale Delight

Last night I found this awesome recipe for the Chickpea lover! This recipe has it all going on for it! And it was easy to prepare and very satisfying. So I thought good things definitely need to be shared.

I served this with Brown Basmati Rice that I picked up from our local Vita Villa Health Foods store. I love this rice. It has a grainy texture and you can see the "green" in it. Brown Basmati rice is a whole grain rice that is produced mostly in Pakistan and the India. It's considered the most flavorful and healthiest of long grain brown rice. It's nutrient dense as the bran and germ are left in it! I buy the organic and always find it to be a delicious complement to my meals.

Nutritional: 1/2 cup serving size
Calories: 102 Carbs: 21.4g Fat: 0.5g Fiber: 1.6g Protein: 3g

To make the rice I used 1 cup of Basmati rice, 2 1/4 cups water and 1 vegetable bouillon cube. I combined all in medium sauce pan and brought to a rapid boil. Reduced heat to simmer for 40 minutes with tight lid - no peeking! Then remove from burner and let set for 5 minutes uncovered before fluffing with a fork...perfect rice every time!

While skimming recipes last night I came across this recipe for a Chickpea Kale Stir-Fry.  I made a few tweaks to make certain all the ingredients were ones that most of us would have on hand. I also cooked with a little water to tender up the chickpeas.  It was truly a delicious dish and the Brown Basmati Rice was the perfect side dish to complete the meal! Hope you guys enjoy this:



Chickpea Kale Delight
3 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tsp Chopped Garlic
1/2 cup White Onion
1 15.5 oz. can Chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
1 tsp Sea Salt
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
1/2 cup water
1 bunch Kale (cleaned and chopped in 1 inch pieces)
1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
1 tbsp Lemon Juice

In large deep skillet saute garlic and onion until tender and translucent. Pour in Chickpeas and blend with sauteed vegetables. Add salt and pepper to season. Gradually pour in water cooking on medium heat until all liquid is absorbed, approximately 8-10 minutes. Then add Kale. It will seem like a lot, but it will cook down as it wilts. Continue tossing while cooking to perfectly blend mixture. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until Kale wilts to desired consistency. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and drizzle the lemon juice in. Fold gently and serve hot beside your rice. Perfectly flavorful! 

Nutritional: 1 cup serving size
Calories: 251 Carbs: 37.2g Fat: 9g Fiber: 8.4g Protein: 8.8g


I LOVED THIS!!!

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Your New Year in Fitness


This is that time of the year when we all look back and reflect on the year that has passed. It is when we look at where we were and how far we've come. Some of you are going to feel pretty amazing about the changes you made in your life and some of you might just be ready to put the whole year behind you. Whatever you are feeling, just know that in a few short days we have a brand new horizon dawning...ah the New Year! I'm such a fan of New Year! It is that one wonderful day we all wake up eager to turn the page to a new chapter in our lives...filled with hope, goals and glorious "resolutions."

Wikipedia defines a New Year's Resolution as, "a commitment that an individual makes to a project or the reforming of a habit, often a lifestyle change that is generally interpreted as advantageous." I think that is a pretty fair assessment of what a lot of us will be thinking of when we set out to define our own resolutions for the coming year. So have you given much thought to what you would like the next 365 days to look like?

I'm going out on a limb here, but I'm guessing it is a pretty safe bet a lot of you will probably lead off your list with losing weight or getting into better shape. Holidays usually bring on lots of wonderful gatherings of friends, family and FOOD. Hard as we try, the majority of us are going to be tempted and will probably overindulge. We will feel incredibly guilty for the lapse in our fitness schedules and wish we were better keepers of our time. One excuse will lead to yet a little more procrastination and then BAM! You wake up on New Year's Eve and think, "what are we going to do about this?" Sound familiar?

The good news, you are not alone. It happens to many of us - even those of us that pride ourselves all year long at being the most meticulous planners of our day. Seems like you hit the holiday season and instead of having a 24 hour day to manage, you are faced with trying to fit another 8 hours of activities into that already crammed day planner. So we make choices...some good, some bad and try to balance it all.

For those of you that have mastered the art of the ever so popular "to-do list" Chalene Johnson so fondly reminds us of with her twitter tweets, I admire you and try very hard to emulate your success. They do undoubtedly make your day more productive. However, this time of the year I find my "to-do list" looking a little more like Santa's "naughty and nice" list. You know, kind of like "it would be NICE to do this," and in pops NAUGHTY and my hour workout turns into a Christmas shopping excursion instead. Or my carefully packed lunch is ditched for a not so nutritious cheat meal for the opportunity to catch up with an old friend at a nearby restaurant. Hey, I'm just being real here...I know I'm not alone on this one. The majority of my year, I would make Chalene proud - but this is just a crazy time for me!

To my rescue, comes New Year! Yes, I definitely like "do-overs"! My opportunity to put my world back in kilter and restore hope for my redemption. I plan to be kicking it off, of course, working on my own set of lifestyle changes. The difference this coming year will be my overall expectancy isn't going to be so much focused on weight loss as it will be on just being healthy. Of course, this will include the steps necessary to continue my weight loss journey - just it will be more the byproduct of working on a series of small steps to get me there. Um, and we will be making list! LOL!

Don't worry, I plan very much to share this with you and hopefully a few of you will join me in this journey. Starting January 1st I will be kicking off what I am calling a "12 Steps to Fitness" program. This will include a series of 12 weeks of small lifestyle changes that will hopefully make our New Year more successful as we work on our health and fitness. I will be posting more details in the upcoming days leading up to our kickoff.

So if you are interested in joining me, I definitely welcome your company. There will be fun, accountability  and hopefully a little sharing of motivation and inspiration. There are going to be no special requirements other than you simply show up each day and journal your progress. You will be totally in charge of your fitness and nutrition regimen, whether it be one of the many outstanding Team Beachbody programs offered or something else your heart desires. I will just be here to make suggestions and hopefully become your success partner. All I care is that you make the effort to make the changes necessary to help you live a healthier more productive life! Because that my friends, will ultimately help me achieve my number one resolution and commitment to Team Beachbody as an Independent Team Beachbody Coach: to help others achieve their fitness and nutritional goals so that they might lead healthier more productive lives.

Everybody wins when we work as a team!

Monday, November 29, 2010

OH NO! What now?

Holidays are a really tough time to stay on your life plan. Chances are over the Thanksgiving holiday some of you missed a workout or two. Maybe your meals weren't exactly stellar. Or maybe you overindulged on the desserts, even though you promised yourself you would stick to your plan. Whatever the situation may be, the truth of the matter is all of us at one time or another have gotten sidetracked. So what happens now? Do you need to go back to square one? What if you gained a pound or two, three, etc.? Does this make you a failure?

In all honesty, if the world were simply black or white - we would ALL be failures. Fortunately, you can live in the gray and still be "okay." In my opinion, one never really truly fails at anything until they simply give up. I don't know about you, but giving up is just not an option for me. I'm one of those people that does really well for awhile and then "life just happens." If I were to set down and beat myself up every time I made a slip with my nutrition or fitness regimen, I would be black and blue from head to toe.

Life is about living. It is not about making the rules so rigid you forget how to enjoy it, too. I'm four sizes smaller than I was this time last year. I could probably be at my goal weight by now, if I would have followed the program and not side-stepped ever. But then again, is that what I really want? Maybe. But hey, it just didn't happen that way for me. I'm okay because I know I have a plan and I know I will get there.  I'm perfectly happy knowing the overall outcome is still attainable...it might just take a little longer to get there, but I will get there.

Statistics prove that slow, gradual weight loss is the more effective approach to keeping weight off for good. A healthy goal of losing one to two pounds a week is a sensible plan for most people. Recognizing that you did not become overweight overnight and losing it won't happen any faster, will allow you to focus more on just being healthy. So start thinking of the little things that lead to the big picture. Small changes over a long period of time can add up to huge success. Instead of starting all over from square one, forgive yourself for the mishap and move forward. Chances are you really haven't set yourself so far back in your progress over a few bad meal choices or a few skipped workouts. So now it is time for a little damage control. Schedule your workouts, plan your meals and just move on. Trust me, you will be glad you did!  Keep pushing play and you will get there.

By the way, the little pep talk also applies to me personally. I managed to twist my knee the day before Thanksgiving. Rather than push forward, I decided to just take it easy a few days instead. Which would be a sensible thing to do. Exercising when we are ill or injured can lead to further injury. My problem was also sneaking in a few too many pieces of pie over the holiday, too. Yes, the scales definitely showed me the error of my ways.  I managed to put on five pounds in that 4-day holiday weekend. But here I am today, right back on track with my programs and nutrition. So all is good and the journey continues. Small detour, but back on track today and definitely pushing play.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Vegan vs Traditional Pumpkin Pie

For anyone looking for a spin on a classic pumpkin pie recipe recreated Vegan style, this is definitely the one to try!

Libby's Famous Pumpkin Pie Recipe
This is the version of pumpkin pie my family has come to know, love and expect from me every Thanksgiving. It is without fail, a very simple and traditional recipe that has been around as long as I can remember. So to try to fix what is not broken is definitely a huge risk. My solution - make both versions and put it to the ultimate test.


  • 3/4 Cup of Sugar
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Ginger
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Cloves
  • 2 Large Eggs
  • 1 (15 oz.) can Libby's 100% Pure Pumpkin
  • 1 (12 oz.) can Carnation Evaporated Milk
  • 1 unbaked 9" Deep Dish Pie Shell
Mix Sugar, Salt, Cinnamon, Ginger and Cloves in medium mixing bowl. Beat in eggs. Stir pumpkin into mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk.
Pour into pie shell.
Bake in preheated 425°F oven for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350°F and bake an additional 40-50 minutes or until inserted knife in center comes out clean. Cool on wire baking rack for 2 hours. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Vegan Pumpkin Pie 

This version was borrowed from Bryanna Clark Grogan with a few modifications. I found it listed on FatFree Vegan Recipes and used it to create my vegan version.

  • 3/4 cup Sucanat
  • 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Ginger
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Cloves
  • 1/2 tsp Sea Salt
  • 3 tsp EnerG Egg Replacer
  • 1/4 cup Corn Starch
  • 1 tbsp Molasses
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 (15 oz.) can Pumpkin Puree
  • 1 1/2 cups Almond Milk
I cooked this recipe following the same directions as the Libby's Pumpkin Pie recipe.

I poured each into my store-brought ready-made deep dish pie shells. I know, there have been times when I made my own crust, but for time sake and expense pre-made seems to work just fine.

Libby's on the Left and Vegan on the Right

Always be certain to put your pies on a cookie sheet or shallow baking dish. This will help avoid spillage onto your oven. I like a clean oven and even though my oven is self-cleaning, it is still easier to clean the cookie sheet than the oven.

Don't forget to foil your crust

Another tip I've learned through years of baking is don't for to put foil around your crust. If you loosely wrap the crust edges they will bake up flaky golden brown without burning. The thing with pumpkin pie is it cooks for quite sometime to set up. Even though you start with an unbaked shell, if you don't wrap it - it will get ugly dark brown.

Always cool to room temperature before refrigeration

If you want to avoid your pie from cracking down the middle, always allow it to cool to room temperature on wire racks before you refrigerate. I like to make my pies the night before. There is always so many other things going on in the kitchen on Thanksgiving day. So dessert is always made the day before. Just works out fabulous for me anyway.

The Finished Product! YUMMY!!!

In the end, they were both "DELICIOUS"! I actually liked the Vegan version better! The texture was "PIE PERFECT" and the taste was wonderful! I will definitely be keeping this recipe. I couldn't find any "Soya Whipped Cream", so it does have regular dairy whipped topping in the picture above. But I will be attempting my own Vegan whipped topping in the future.

If you are looking for a great alternative to the Traditional Pumpkin Pie and don't want to skimp on flavor, this recipe is worth trying. I wasn't particularly thrilled at the idea of using any "tofu" version. This definitely was easy and tasty...and best part...NO TOFU! Enjoy!

Wishing you a very safe and blessed Thanksgiving!

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Reaching the End Means a New Beginning

Things are right on track for my program. I can’t believe I am already into week 12 with my second round of the P90X ®. The time has really flown by, but I am very content with my progress. I've hit a few bumps along the way, but nothing that kept me from “PUSHING PLAY” and moving forward. I only have 12 more days and I will be posting my 90-Day Progress photos! WOW! Such a great feeling of accomplishment. I will also be posting my progress photos with the Brazil Butt Lift ®.

I have to admit I had my doubts when I first began the Brazil Butt Lift ®. Some of those moves really had my legs and arms twisted every way except the way they were supposed to go. At times I think I burned more calories just trying to untie all the knots I managed to put myself in. But just as most things in life, with a little time, patience, practice and persistence I finally managed to learn my way through it. I’ve really become quite fond of my nights with Leandro telling me, “don’t settle for less.”

In review of the Brazil Butt Lift ®, the BUM BUM is a major sweat fest and if you totally want to bring the heat combo this with the TurboFire ® HIIT 25. That will definitely send your glutes "SCREAMING" for the day! Mixing the Cardio Axe with KenpoX will put your workout over the top. The Sculpt workout is perfect for keeping things nice and toned. But my absolute favorite combo has to be the High & Tight followed by the Tummy Tuck. If ever there were any two workouts that target my problem areas more, these are definitely the ones. I’ve been doubling up the ankle weights in the High & Tight so I can feel it DEEP in my glutes. The Tummy Tuck has my obliques “SORE” afterwards. Anything that makes me that sore is definitely working. So my overall opinion on the Brazil Butt Lift ®: it’s worth practicing those moves! This workout set will most certainly remain in my rotation.

So now that I am so close to finishing up my 90-Day program you are probably wondering “what’s next?” I’m definitely happy with the toning and definition the P90X ® has given me and the TurboFire ® HIITs have been amazing for bumping the cardio up a notch. It seems no matter where I travel in the Team Beachbody programs, I always wind right back in X-land. There is a reason P90X ® is one of the leading in-home fitness programs – It WORKS! I am very happy I am becoming a walking product of the product. Yeah, that little “from the creators of P90X ® ” on the back of my t-shirt is quickly becoming more about ME and less about product reference…LOL. Seriously, it will be a hard act to follow, but I’ve locked in the vote and next on my agenda is

I seem to have this layer of fat that keeps clinging to me for dear life. Well, I’ve worked really hard these last 90-Days to make those beautiful muscles. So I’m not going to keep them hidden underneath where no one can see them. Now that just doesn’t seem right. So I need something that will strip that fat right out of there. From what I have reviewed so far and from other coaches recommendations, if I want the fat to go I need to get a little CRAZY. What I’ve seen in previews so far, Insanity ® looks like “cardio on crack!”

I might really have my work cut out for me. But isn’t that what it’s all about? As Chalene Johnson would tell us, “If I want to be the athlete, I have to train like one.” So who is up for taking their fitness to the next level? Come and join me and let’s keep each other accountable. I’m setting the official start date as Monday, December 13, 2010! Ain’t nothing standing between me and lean except a little more sweat! Let’s BRING IT!!!

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Team Beachbody is ROCKING MY WORLD

You know how sometimes you just find yourself at the right place at the exact right time and everything just becomes so crystal clear and you get this feeling the planets have aligned and all is right with the universe? Well for me, this became a reality this weekend. On Friday, I hurriedly packed my car, pointed it north, loaded up my family and we headed out for an adventure to Lincoln, Nebraska. So what was so special about Lincoln?

I actually went there to participate in a Coach's Business Training session hosted by Tammie and Doug Fitzgerald. Guest speakers were Brett Blake and Denise Needham from Team Beachbody. The actual reason I went was to learn more about fit clubs and how I could continue to grow with what is becoming the most rewarding career opportunity I've ever had. I can't think of a time whenever I have felt so good about what I'm doing. It is like after years of wandering "what I was going to be when I grew up" just dropped from the sky and landed right square in my lap! I walked away from that training this weekend knowing I have found what I was destine to do - I have found my purpose in life. I was meant to be a Team Beachbody Coach!

I've been a member of Team Beachbody since November 2007. In February, I decided that becoming a coach would be my way of "paying it forward" and sharing all the wonderful things I've learned about fitness and nutrition with my own journey. I started a thread earlier that year called the Cinderella Pact. I really wanted a place to build a support system for individuals just like me, who weren't necessarily looking for the quick fix to getting thin - but a real place where we could keep each other accountable and share in creating lifelong habits to building a healthier lifestyle. I invited some close and dear Team Beachbody friends to come and join me. What happen next is beyond anything I could have ever imagined.

When I first started coaching, I wasn't sure what to expect. I wasn't really familiar with multilevel marketing or for that matter what social networking really entailed. For me it was just an adventure in getting to know more about fitness and nutrition. A way to learn and share with others. A means to keep me accountable and on track with my own fitness and nutrition goals. A hobby at best and most certainly a way to enjoy quality fitness programs at a discount. Then there was this unexpected perk - the relationships that have developed and emerged. Actual people reaching across many miles to motivate and inspire one another in our journey to get fit and healthy.

Incredibly, I found this was much more than a hobby. It has actually become something that gives me so much joy that I've become passionate about what I do. Why? Because what I'm doing gives my life purpose and meaning. It's not just a job - it is me connecting with people and sharing a means to help them develop positive reinforcements so they can live healthy and fulfilling lives. There is nothing more rewarding than hearing the excitement in someone's voice when they start losing weight and turning their plateaus into triumphs. Or when someone tells you how great they feel just by changing their diet. These aren't crazy health fanatics - these are real people wanting to feel good about themselves so they can give more quality time to their families and friends and start enjoying life again.

Team Beachbody is changing people's lives every single day. Don't believe me, then just do a Google search on all the transformation stories out there. These are real people taking back control of their lives and taking a stand against the increasing obesity rate in our country. This isn't a company that is out there promoting trendy fad diets or silly gadgets to throw away your money on - they are actually giving you real tools, quality supplements and programs and making sure you have the opportunity of a COACH to help you be successful in your journey. I mean this is P90X ® , Insanity ® , TurboFire ® , Brazil Butt Lift ® , Slim in 6 ® and Shakeology ® ! Seriously, this isn't overnight sensationalism. These are proven products that give consistent results over and over again. And by coach, I mean a real living, breathing human being that genuinely cares about you reaching your fitness and nutrition goals. WOW! If ever there were a company I wanted to be a part of, this is it!

To put it as simply as I can: I'm doing what I love and loving what I do. Look, I know this is not for everyone - but for the unique few of you out there looking for something to bring real purpose and meaning to your life by helping others lead healthy and fulfilling lives - I guarantee this is an opportunity you are not going to want to let pass you by. If you want more information on Team Beachbody, please watch the following video clip. If this resonates with you and you are ready to move into a career path that is truly life changing, then I invite you to come  Join My Team. Together we can win the war on obesity...JUST PUSH PLAY!



Until December 31, 2010 Team Beachbody will be waiving the $39.95 Business Starter Kit fee. If you need more information, please feel free to contact me. I will be happy to answer any questions you might have. You can also visit our team's website at http://www.getpaid2getfit.net where you can find many answers to frequently asked questions about coaching. Just remember this is a limited offer and if your looking for an opportunity to get in the best shape of your life and help others - now is the time to join!

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Moving Away from the Fat-Zone

I am already into my second week of the Brazil Butt Lift ® and loving it. I admit the moves are somewhat challenging. Trying to convince my hips and arms their movements need to be more choreographed has been an uphill battle most nights, but still fun. Who knows, maybe with a little more practice I will develop some of those sexy dance moves to take to the New Year's Eve party this year. One thing is definitely for certain, at this point in the game...Shakira, I'm definitely NOT!

I'm still working hard on my P90X ® and TurboFire ® hybrid. I love bringing in the TurboFire ® HIIT routines. Definitely adding the "FIYA" to my "X-land" and starting to see the results. This past weekend I got to take my 60-Day Progress Photos and was really pleased. You know, I may not be the overnight sensation, but I am definitely making some noticeable changes in my body. That to me is enough to keep my motivation right on track and me pushing forward. Besides, this is a lifelong plan for me. I'm not looking for rapid results, I'm looking for LASTING RESULTS! Huge difference, especially when it comes to getting the body that I want and keeping it.


So many marketers are going to be vastly pushing the next fad diet to help shed all those unwanted holiday pounds. All I have to say here is, "buyer beware." What sometimes appears to be the simple solution, may not be all it's cracked up to be in the end. The thing about fad diets is remarkably they work to get rid of those unwanted pounds really quickly. The price you pay is usually opting on nutrition and giving into a diet that is either "low-carb" or "low-fat" and like magic the pounds seem to fade away. Eureka! Success! But is it really?

Sadly, anyone that has ever ventured on one of the latest trendy fad diets is most likely to become incredibly discouraged once they return to a more realistic way of eating. In fact, statistics prove most of these people will gain more weight than they actually lost while succumbing to the diet craze. This only leads to more self-doubt and actually feeling like a failure because they think they must have done something incredibly wrong. Can I get a show of hands on how many of you have been on this yo-yo game?

Coming from personal experience, I too have played this game many times. As a matter of fact, before becoming a Team Beachbody customer I had lost 45 pounds in as little as 3 months on that well-known eat all the meat you want diet. I won't name names here, but I think you all probably know what I'm talking about. I was certain I had found that "magic bullet" - the one sure-cure for getting thin. I just neglected to research and find out what I was actually doing in the process. I not only lost the weight, but I lost the muscle, too. Hmm, I hadn't bargained for that loss. Then, just as promised, once I started to bring those carbs back into my diet, you guessed it - BAM - twice as large and I can guarantee you it wasn't muscle that came back.

I had really reached that point where I just felt like I was done. It must be old age, genetics or maybe I was one of those people that was meant to be fat and jolly. Which by the way, does anyone really ever feel "jolly" when they're fat? Seriously, I was on a one-way track to the "morbidly obese zone." I am so thankful for people like Chalene Johnson and Turbo Jam ® . I'd hate to think what may have happened had I not caught a glimpse of that informercial that night. At that point I didn't get the concept of diet and exercise. Or even how important both are together. But over the course of time, a few setbacks and finally "grabbing a clue" I found my way to the person I am today.

Point of the story...there is NO perfect diet out there that is going to give you rapid lasting results. The true way to get where you want to go and stay there is going to take finding lifelong habits you can live with. It isn't about cutting out a specific food group - it's about eating a balanced nutrious variety of healthy foods and setting up a daily exercise regimen you enjoy. I'm glad for what I found with Team Beachbody. Just watching how far I've come and where I'm going is all the proof in the world this isn't a fad - it's a lifestyle!

So what about you. Are you ready to say goodbye to the yo-yo game and hello to the happier healthier you? I'm only a mouse click away. It's that simple. Come and join me for FREE! Isn't it about time you put an end to the madness and discovered who you were truly meant to be? Team Beachbody is the solution.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Time to Shake the BUM BUM


Last week I did a Shakeology ® Cleanse and was definitely happy with the end results. In three days I managed to lose a total of 6 lbs.! I video blogged the entire process from Day 1 all the way to the very Final Results video. If you are interested in seeing how I did, you will definitely want to get over to my YouTube Channel and check it out! While you are there, be sure to leave a comment or even better subscribe to my coming videos!


I think I am seriously considering video blogging about my experience with the new Brazil Butt Lift ® .

It really was my intention to start the Brazil Butt Lift ® last week. But after not having any results with the weight loss the week before at the local YMCA Pound Plunge, I decided I needed a plateau-buster. It was the perfect opportunity to try out the Shakeology ® Cleanse to see how quickly I could turn things around and get the metabolism firing again. One of the recommendations of doing a Shakeology ® Cleanse is not to do it during a double workout program. As a matter of fact, they don't even recommend doing it with any extreme workout regimen such as the P90X ® , Insanity ® or TurboFire ® . But I was in the middle of my recovery week with the P90X ® and knew if I felt I was bonking with my program I could just stop. Surprisingly, I did quite well. I was extremely happy to see my back muscles finally starting to come through. That definitely is making me anxious for my 60-Day Progress Photos that are coming up this weekend.

With the cleanse behind me and results in the bag, it is time to step it up and add the Brazil Butt Lift ® into the mix. So for the next 4-weeks I will be finishing up the last phase of the P90X ® and adding the Brazil Butt Lift ® in the evenings. I am definitely looking to get my bottom rocking. I have the P90X ® to bring on the muscle and the Brazil Butt Lift ® to shape up and lift the caboose. I'm hoping for a little "Bootilicious" action going on.

I took those dreaded before photos. I figure if I'm going to show myself accountable I have to bring it out in the open. In all fairness, I can't really promote what I honestly don't personally know. Believe me, I am a walking product of the product. So far I've been really pleased with my programs and haven't found anything I didn't like. Just further endorsement that Team Beachbody definitely does their homework when it comes to quality programs and supplements. I most certainly expect to see good results with this program as well. So wish me luck and definitely plan to hear more about it on YouTube. This "tuchy" is about to get a top-notch bottom makeover.

Brazil Butt Lift - Slim & Shape Rotation
If you have tried the Brazil Butt Lift ® I would love to hear about the results you got. Please feel free to comment your pros and cons with the program. I'm always interested in how things are working for other people.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Shaking It Up a Bit

This week's weigh-in for the Pound Plunge showed no results. To some that may be a little discouraging. But to me, I'm just happy there wasn't a gain. It just means my body is preparing for maintenance mode. So I will not be too concerned just yet. There is also the possibility since I've been doing my program for a while now, that I'm building lean muscle mass to displace the fat.

Muscle is more dense than fat, and therefore though I can definitely see a difference in the way my clothes are fitting, I may not always see the difference on the scales. So for now I'm pretty sure by the muscle I've been able to see lately, it is a good sign as to why the scale didn't see a drop. You know those P90X ® workouts are pretty effective at changing your body very quickly. Rest assure, Tony Horton is the master when it comes to providing us with the perfect catalyst to transform our bodies. The P90X ® comes with powerful results to those that follow it's design. I've seen it many times and definitely living my own experience.

A pound of Fat compared to a pound of Muscle


 I am considering taking it up an notch this week and going to try the Shakeology Cleanse. I've heard from other customers and Team Beachbody coaches and they are getting amazing results with the cleanse. I personally love the Chocolate Shakeology ®. It is definitely my choice of meal replacement options out there. So beginning next Tuesday, I plan to post all three days of my cleanse to the blog, so be sure to check back often.

When it comes to the Shakeology ®, I'm most impressed by all the healthy ingredients packed into that little package. There are two different options when purchasing. You can get it in the convenient 24-pack single servings or you can purchase it in bulk, which will give you 30 servings for the same price. And if you sign up for the home-direct you will receive FREE shipping and 2 FREE gifts. Plus you will be sure to receive it without fail with the autoship option. It even comes with a 30-Day Bottom of the Bag Guarantee. That is how sure Team Beachbody is you are going to love it! It comes in two delicious flavors: Chocolate and Greenberry. Of course, if you would like more information always feel free to contact me and I will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

I posted my 30-Day P90X Progress Update this week to my YouTube Channel. In the video I give a step by step process of how I make my favorite Chocolate Power Shake for my meal replacement. So what is your favorite Shakeology ® recipe? I would love to hear your house specialty, so feel free to send me a comment.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Daring to Dream

I got the 30-Day Results photos and I have to admit I am very much pleased with my progress. I lost a total of 5 lbs and 4 inches in that 30-Day period. I also got to experience firsthand a workout session with the man himself, Tony Horton. I really think that was the one thing that propelled my determination into overdrive. There is nothing like attending one of those Team Beachbody events to super hype your enthusiasm and light your desire on FIRE! I came back from Dallas, Texas supercharged and ready for action.

This morning I had P90X ® Back & Biceps/Ab Ripper X. If ever there is a DVD that will put you into the empowerment zone, it is this one. If you like to go heavy and are looking for failure in the 6-8 reps, this is definitely your place to shine. I pushed every fiber I had to watch those muscles shake and quiver. Then when I got to the point I just didn't think my body could handle one more rep, I stopped, took a deep breath and pushed even harder for that "one more rep." Nothing more gratifying than pushing your limits and NAILING IT! Yeah, Tony, I bought tickets to the gun show...MY GUN SHOW! Let me tell you, if you can get to the end of that DVD and not want to go stand in front of the mirror and FLEX those beautifully sculpted muscles...you seriously need to reconsider how much weight you are lifting and then go HEAVIER!!! Awesome! That is what best describes that feeling at the end.

Back muscles coming through!

I think about the person I use to be when this journey first began, then I look at the person I've become. You can't even begin to put a price on what Team Beachbody has done for my fitness, health and more importantly confidence. I've learned in so many ways I am a person of worth and value. I always was. But isn't it crazy how down on ourselves we become when we feel like we don't measure up to someone elses standards? I have one really important bit of advice for those of you just beginning this journey, "Be YOURSELF!" I know really simple, but it is so true. Don't worry that you don't keep up with the person next to you at the gym. Don't worry that you're not a perfect size 2. Don't worry about all the craziness that envy can bring. There is not anyone human being in your entire universe that is more important than YOU. Because only, and I say this sincerely, when you learn to truly embrace the power of who you are and how uniquely special you are do you learn to love and appreciate the uniqueness of others. It is so empowering to be able to look at a beautiful well-defined woman or man and admire their efforts for what they have accomplished rather than feel overwhelmed with guilt for not being them. Envy is the root of all evil.

So if I leave you with one thought today let it be, you are a person of value and you deserve to be happy, healthy and fit. You and you alone are in control of the steps you must take to get there. Make today the day you stand up and take charge of who you are, who you were meant to be and who you will become. Believe in yourself and dare to dream. Because it is when we dare to dream, the once impossible becomes possible!


Day 1 Top - Day 30 Bottom - P90X Progress Photos
Keep Bringing It!

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

P90X with Tony Horton!

My goodness, has it been that long since I've been in here? Hmm, I guess it has. Well, I apologize. It must mean that I have one heck of a busy life and a busy life is a good sign. No, seriously there have been a ton of things going on in my world and now I'm ready to get back on a roll with the blogpost.


First, I want to tell everyone about the absolutely amazing time I had at the P90X Super Saturday Event with Tony Horton in Dallas, Texas. I'm telling you that if you ever have the opportunity to attend one of these events - GO! You won't be disappointed. It was so electrically charged with people from all levels of fitness coming together for the opportunity to workout with the one and only master of fitness himself, Tony Horton. The guy is a pistol! And yes, he looks just as amazing in person as he does on those videos. There is definitely no special effects and lighting going on. It all the total package deal...he is 100% genuine and real. If I sound like a groupie, I totally am! This man has changed my life and way of thinking in more way imaginable. To finally meet him in person had me totally mesmerized and at an absolute loss for words. Just ask my son and he will tell you. I totally burst into tears when I finally got through the hundreds of people in line to have their pictures taken with him. *Sigh* So worth it!

Absolutely My 15 Seconds of Glory!
Only one other person holds my attention just as much. Ok, you all know that I'm talking about the one and only Steven Tyler. Yes, my worship of Aerosmith goes back decades, but I'm telling you Mr. Doc Horton has the same effect on me. Now if Tony could add some Aerosmith tunes to super P90X ® me, I would be all over that in a heartbeat. What can I say? Both of these guys totally ROCK my world and set me on fire to do better and push harder. Steven for his music and Tony, no doubt for his knock out workouts that are totally giving me back the chance to have that ROCKSTAR body. And don't you think there is just a little rockstar in all of us?

I also want to than Melissa and Robert Hudgens for hosting the event! They made the whole thing possible and it was done Team Beachbody Perfect! There were two breakout sessions in which we were privileged to see and hear some remarkable transformation stories. We also got to hear Tony's "11 Laws of Health & Fitness." Definitely some good stuff in there that I will be sharing with the Cinderella Pact and undoubtedly in here as well. Simply because when Tony talks, people listen...and take notes. Trust me, I did. Just the same as the night he turned my nutrition world upside down with his challenge that inspired the Cinderella Pact in the first place.

Look, I could go on and on about the difference this has made in my life, but I know you really want to see the results. Well, come Friday I will be posting those 30 Day Progress Photos. All I can say is this round has me definitely feeling the strength and seeing some muscle peak around the layers of fat that seem to be melting away. I may not make the super model transformation, but my fitness and health have improved leaps and bounds. So when people ask me, "Does it work?" Proudly I say, "Just look at where I was and where I am now."When people tell you Team Beachbody is changing lives...I am most definitely one of them!

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Low-Impact Can Still Mean High-Intensity

Today was a great workout with the TurboFire ® Fire Class 45 EZ. I'm finding it extremely difficult to hold back the strong urge to let my feet leave the ground. Sometimes I think that the intensity is even magnified just fighting the impulse that builds inside me as the music and Chalene Johnson make me just want to JUMP! 1..2..3..4..I just have to stop myself and count to ten each time. I can do this low-impact. But with all honesty...it is hard.


The scary part for me at this moment is realizing that jumping is no longer an option for me. I truly do understand the consequences of such an action. My knee has been through a lot. The thought of heading into surgery again keeps my feet firmly planted on the ground even though my heart really wants to cop the air and touch the ceiling. But I'm making the adjustment. I'm watching, learning and finding ways to not let my limitations keep me from making the most of my workout. Just because it has to be low-impact doesn't mean it can't be high-intensity. One of the reasons I am truly thankful that Chalene did include a modifier with TurboFire ® . And let me say, just because it's low-impact for me, don't think I can't still bring a sweat. I totally ROCK the sweat-factory!

The nutrition is going well. My husband is about Veganed-out. But for me, it has helped me overcome a hurdle and plateau. Not to mention I actually ENJOY all the new menu items. It really has gotten me out of my comfort zone and made me explore all the fresh fruits and vegetables my diet was really lacking. The great thing is - I like it. It is fun going to the produce aisle and exploring all the vegetables I've never even thought of preparing. Now I find myself almost seeking out something different so I can experiment with it in some new recipe. For the most part, I've been really pleased with my creations like the Italian Chickpea Artichoke Stew. I even took a sample to work with me and shared with my boss. She loved it! I can't help but think how far my life has come since Tony Horton made that infamous challenge in the chatroom that night, "No alcohol; No caffeine; No refined sugar or white flour; No wheat products or gluten; No dairy products; No meat or animal products for two weeks." My life was forever changed. That was the pivotal moment that set the wheels in motion and finally it all clicked. Nutrition and Exercise are the whole equation for a HEALTHIER HAPPIER YOU! I actually do "think" before eating now. Food has become Fuel!

I know I sure can't wait until this weekend to finally meet Tony Horton in person. WOW! Sometimes I have to pinch myself to think this is actually my reality. I would of never guessed in a million years that I would find myself actually making a career doing something I totally enjoy. But it has become such a passion. I wake up each morning eager to get to the basement and slam in the DVD for some "go-time". All the while knowing that I'm giving my body the best attention it has ever had. I mean, I'm actually starting to see muscles...ME...I'm getting muscles. I don't know for sure if I've ever had them. I know that sounds silly, but as long as I can remember I've always been "soft." LOL. Even when I was considerably thin, I don't recall ever seeing the outline of a muscle. The more I see it now, the more encouraged I am to keep "PUSHING PLAY." It is like an addiction, but the kind I'm willing to accept.

The best thing about all of this is having a great community of Team Beachbody members and coaches to share it with. I've made some really fantastic friends along the way. These people started out being my "buddies" and have ended up being my "life support!" I know whatever it is I'm feeling or dealing with, there is someone who is going to help me through it or going to give me that 'attaboy' for getting it done. You can't help but be inspired by the sheer determination and team spirit which truly runs rampant on the message board threads. Just watching any one the thousands of transformations that are happening on a daily basis is enough to lift you up and get you going. I'm definitely so proud to be part of this movement in lifelong health and fitness. It feels great to know that in some small way, I'm contributing to an even grander scale.

We will win the war on obesity...one pound, one inch, one person at a time!

Monday, September 13, 2010

Italian Chickpea Artichoke Stew

Ingredients

3 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 medium White Onion, diced
1 medium Green Bell Pepper, diced
2 stalks Celery, sliced thin

8 cups Water
1 Not-Chick'n Gluten Free Vegan Bouillon Cube
1 tbsp Ground Garlic
1 tbsp Ground Basil
1 tbsp Ground Oregano
1 tbsp Ground Black Pepper
3 medium Potatoes, peeled and diced
2 medium Parsnips, peeled and diced
2 medium Carrots, peeled and diced
1 15.5 oz. can Chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 14 oz. can Artichoke Hearts, packed in water
2 14.5 oz. cans Peeled and Diced Italian Style Tomatoes

Sea Salt to taste

Directions

In large stockpot heat olive oil over low heat. Stir in onions, peppers and celery and saute until tender.

Pour in water. Add in bouillon cube and spices and bring to a rapid boil. Add potatoes, parsnips, carrots and chickpeas. Cook for 20 minutes over medium high heat covering pot with airtight lid.

Drain artichoke hearts and add to stew. Pour in two cans Italian style tomatoes and juices. Reduce heat to simmer and cook an additional 20 minutes.

Salt to taste. Makes approximately 8 1-1/2 cup servings.


Serving size: 1.5 cups
Approximately: 8 Servings

Nutritional Info
Calories: 226 Total Fat: 7 g Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 642 mg Potassium: 621 mg Carbs: 38 g
Dietary Fiber: 9 g Sugar: 6 g Protein: 6 g

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Going Green to Get Lean

Just recently I registered to do the 21 Day Vegan Kickstart. I'm happy to say that I am now on day four and really enjoying the variety. I've been trying very hard to keep up with a Vegan/Vegetarian diet for sometime now. This site was interesting to me because it offered a menu planning feature. So it is like taking all the guess work out of that famous question, "what's for dinner?" The nice thing I've noticed about the site is it outlines the menu items, gives you the option of printing a handy shopping list for the week and the recipes are only a mouse click away. Doesn't get any easier than that.

I've even managed to try something new. This week I bought couscous. This is one of the easiest things on the planet to make. OMG! Pour the box in a large bowl, add two cups of boiling water, stir, cover and in 5 minutes it is done to perfection! WOW! Where have I been all this time? The recipe for the Couscous Confetti Salad was great! I made enough of this stuff that I even took it for lunch today. I will admit, I made a couple of alterations. I used chopped red onion in place of the green onion, and green bell pepper instead of the red (that was really a price factor thing - why are red bell peppers ALWAYS twice as much as the green ones?) and I used Craisins instead of raisins. But it was still very good.

As a matter of fact when I came home last night my husband was like, "please no more vegetables!" I think he is almost Veganed-out, poor guy. But he loved what we had for dinner (he always does) and ate it down like a champ with no complaints. We made the Southern Beans and Greens with a side of the Coucous Confetti Salad and threw in some homemade Vegan-friendly cornbread muffins.It really was a terrific meal.

The more I explore eating Vegan/Vegetarian the more I am convinced I'm doing something really good for my body. After years of processed foods loaded with preservatives and things I can't even pronounce, it is nice to see the solution was always there in front of me. It is all about eating a balanced diet. About going back to our upbringing when once upon a time families actually sat around the dinner table and ate REAL food. Not just something that was nuked on high for 3 minutes and thrown in a bowl to woof down sitting in front of the television set. It's about actually going to the produce section in the grocery store and exploring all those fabulous fresh fruits and vegetables just waiting to be crafted into the latest piece of edible table art for your family's nutritional enjoyment. Okay, Martha Stewart I'm not - but I could probably do a mean Rachel Ray with my EVVO in hand!

I have people email me all the time wanting to know what is the best diet plan I can recommend. It is easy and no big secret...a BALANCED diet! If you want to lose weight and keep it off, you have to eat properly and exercise daily. This means eating a diet that has lean healthy proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats and getting a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise everyday.  You may not lose it quickly, but trust me the weight will come off and you will begin to feel so much better. Besides, it isn't about how quickly you get there - it's about developing lifelong habits to help you stay there! I know I'm not breaking record strides in going from fat to fabulous, but I'm okay just knowing I'm moving closer to healthy and keeping the weight off. Slow and steady really does win the race.

Saturday, September 4, 2010

No One is Messing with My Chi

I got up this morning and was actually excited to get the YogaX going while the rest of my family lay all snug in their beds. It had been awhile. I wasn't really sure how my body would take it. Was I going to be all over the mat? What about my balance? And the knee, yeah can't forget about the knee. I could feel a little anxiety starting to build as I went to the kitchen to prepare my water glass. But I had a great week. I saw all those "blue" marks on my WOWY SuperGym Calendar.

"I can do this! And even if I don't make all those vinyasas perfect I will simply do my best and forget the rest."

I am so proud of myself. Today I did YogaX like never before. I was amazed at how much I've improved. I still struggled with a few of the moves. My half moon has definitely come along way, it ain't pretty, but it ain't bad either. Every move I tried hard to "clear my mind and stay focused in the NOW." I knew I had a lot on my plate later, so many things to do, but I would get to those AFTER I had time to give my body a real treat. After all that is what Tony says YogaX is, right? A real treat for your body. Heck, I believe it.

I really went out of my comfort zone a couple of times today. My attempt at crane still has me struggling...the butt still gets in the way of things...lol. I will definitely have to work on that one more. But I was impressed with most of my poses. I will give credit to doing the TurboFire ® Core 20 Class/Stretch 40 Class every other day for the last couple of weeks. It really has increased my flexibility and endurance. Definitely it showed today with the YogaX. I totally ENJOYED the entire workout!

Look I know some of you think the YogaX is too hard or you just don't need it. Think again. The YogaX is one of the most important things you can do for your body to improve your athleticism. It allows you to stretch your muscles, improve your strength, flexibility and balance. It helps you improve your core and posture. You can even improve you concentration and ability to focus. Not to mention, actually lower your blood pressure and improve your mood. YogaX has so many good things going on that it is hard to list them all. But if nothing else, it will help you BRING IT even better in those killer P90X ® workouts. Now if that doesn't make it important, I don't know what else will.

Look, no one is expecting you to get out there and slap your palms to floor with your heel stretched to the ceiling or wrap your legs into a pretzel. All Tony ever asks is that, "you do your best and forget the rest."  

YogaX - it's in the rotation for a reason...keep it there. Do what you can that day and make a commitment with yourself to try harder each week. You will get there...you just have to "KEEP PUSHING PLAY!"

It is said that your "chi" is the devine essence of being, that invisible life energy that surrounds us. Martial artist combine their chi with strength and power to overcome their opponents. Though I am by far no martial artist, I'm definitely calling on all powers to put my husband in his place...after all I have a bet to win. Yeah, you better believe me..."no one is messing with my chi!"