Friday, December 27, 2013

Working Girl...Burn, Baby, Burn!

So with my new Polar heart rate monitor, I thought I'd start testing out how many calories I burn just during everyday activities.  Today, I wore it to work!

I work at a video store so I'm always on my feet and constantly moving and doing something.  In 4 hours, I burned 969 calories! I had an average heart rate of 103 BPM (I even got up to 142 BPM).

It's so neat to learn these little things, but, hey, if I miss a work out because I have to go to work, now I feel better about it!

Jillian Michaels Yoga Inferno Level 1 Calorie Burn

So I got a new Polar heart rate monitor for Christmas, and I decided to try it out today starting with Jillian Michaels Yoga Inferno Level 1.  The work-out from beginning to end was just under 34 minutes and I burned 340 calories--that's 10 calories a minute!  My average heart rate was 175 BPM and my maximum was 205 BPM.

However, at 5'3" and 133 lbs, I was at a fitness level for 28 min:22 sec and only 1 min:35 sec at a fat burning level, so I'll have to work on getting my heart rate up more during the cardio intervals.  I did have a few times where I had to check my heart rate monitor transmitter, though, because it had slid down a bit due to sweat, so I'll tighten it up and see what changes tomorrow.

THIS THING IS SO COOL!!  I LOVE IT!!

PS- calculated my resting heart rate at 84 BPM!

Friday, December 20, 2013

Workout Hiatus

So, I realize it's been awhile since I wrote, but I've been taking the month of December to relax.  I've spent 2 years hitting it hard with my workouts 5-6 days a week and decided that a month off might be good for me.  You don't ever need to feel bad for taking a hiatus from exercising, because sometimes the body just needs a break (sometimes your mind just needs a break).  The most important thing about working out is having the desire to do so and enjoying it, mental motivation leads to physical motivation, so if you don't have the mental motivation, step back, relax, and take some time off.  (I do, however, suggest not taking more than 4 weeks off because it takes 45 days to develop a habit, it also takes 45 days to get rid of a habit so much more than 30 days is going to hurt you.)

I'm also hoping that the shock of going from a month without working out back to 6 days a week of circuit training will shock my body into losing those last few pounds and inches!  I'm also hoping for Jillian Michael's 360 armband/heart rate monitor (the one from Biggest Loser) for Christmas so I can keep track of the calories I burn and let you all know which workouts give you the best bang for your buck...and your time and energy!

So far, in order to not gain weight, I've cut my calories a lot and I don't eat after 8 p.m. (but I go to bed at midnight, so adjust accordingly).  I haven't lost any weight but I haven't gained anything either, so I'm fine with that.  I've stayed at the same weight the whole time- maybe my scale is stuck! LOL

Anyways, as soon as I get back to working out--aka January 1st--I'm going to be starting Shaun T & Beachbody's Hip Hop Abs.  I already did month 1 in November and it didn't do anything for me because I think my fitness level is higher, so I'm jumping into month 2 in January...I'll let you know how it goes!!

Have a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year!!!  Talk to you next year! (Oh, and enjoy the Christmas feast.  It's okay!)

Thursday, October 3, 2013

September Inches

I completely forgot to post my end-of-September measurements, but ending Body Revolution and 1 week into a combo of Killer Abs and Yoga Inferno, here are my inches:

August 2013                                     September 2013              
Right bicep: 10.5 inches                             Right bicep: 10.5 inches
Left bicep:10.5 inches                                 Left bicep: 10.5 inches
Right thigh: 23.5 inches                              Right thigh: 23 inches
Left thigh: 22.5 inches                                 Left thigh: 22 inches
At my bellybutton: 32 inches                      At my bellybutton: 30.5
Hips: 35 inches                                            Hips: 34.5
Waist: 27 inches                                          Waist: 26.5 inches
Booty: 37 inches                                          Booty: 36 inches
Weight: 134.5 pounds                                Weight: 131.5 pounds

So I've only lost 3 pounds, but I lost a totally of 4.5 inches in 4 weeks!  I'm happy with my results.  Size 2 jeans, here I come!

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Yoga INFERNO!

So everyone online is talking about Jillian's new butt-kicking workout, Yoga Inferno, and of course, I had to give it a try.  I went to Target and got the last copy and WOW, Inferno is right! (Jillian filmed this DVD in the desert and they had to wear sunglasses throughout the work out because it was so bright they couldn't see anything.)

You know I'm a big fan of Jillian so I've tried all the DVDs and this one may not necessarily be the most difficult for me, but it definitely makes me sweat the most.  I've only gotten through Level 1 so far, which consists of using body weight for strength training while moving through stretches and throwing in a few 30 second cardio intervals here and there.

Your heart rate goes up and down, up and down, every muscle in your body is working through every move, and you've got sweat dripping down your body.  It's certainly a challenge to find the strength to not cheat the moves, and afterwards, every muscle in my body is weak and screaming, but thanks to the stretches throughout the workout, I didn't wake up sore the next morning.

If you're looking to step up your yoga game, if you liked Yoga Meltdown, of if you're looking for a new workout that will keep you on your toes and constantly working to improve and never let you be bored...then check out Jillian Michaels NEW Yoga Inferno!

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Killer Abs Level 3

I finally had the guts to try Jillian Michaels Killer Abs Level 3 and OH, BOY was that fun! *wink wink*

After doing Body Revolution, Level 3 didn't seem so impossible, but it's still tough!  It's not for beginners!  Even if you think you're abs are hot stuff...try Level 3 and you'll think again.

I suggest doing Level 1 for at least a week or 2, then Level 2 for a couple weeks before moving on to Level 3.  I wanted to give you a review of it, so I tried it, but now I'm going back to Level 2 until that's easy for me!
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Level 3 starts off with a much more intense warm up than the other 2 levels, and the entire work out involves jump-training, some plyometrics, and of course a lot of plank work.  Levels 1 will really make you feel it in your quads as well as abs; Level 2 will really make it in your shoulders, a little in your quads and your abs; Level 3 will make you feel it head to toe: triceps, shoulders, abs/core, quads, glutes....you're going to need to do a few extra stretches for your abs and hamstrings after her normal cool-down!

But good luck!  I enjoyed the challenge and look forward to really being able to make it through it without feeling like I might collapse! :)

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Stay Strong

It's frustrating working so hard at something and having to wait for what seems like forever for even the tiniest hint of results, but I want to tell you all to keep pushing!  I've been working out 6 days a week for the past 4 months and the shape and strength of my body has changed drastically.

I just started Killer Abs by Jillian Michaels, and I used to struggle through Level 1 and I could rarely add weights to the exercises, but now I can feel my abs getting stronger day by day (even my legs are getting stronger!) and my endurance to the plyo with weights...let's just say that thanks to Body Revolution, I'm so much stronger--body, mind and soul.  I can see the definition in my abs when I do the exercises and I actually feel like the fat is being sucked from my stomach throughout the day.  I never gave Killer Abs much of a try before BR, but now, I'm giving it my all and I feel like I could progress to Level 3 already.

For those of you not sure about the Body Revolution program...trust me...it's completely worth it!

For those of you just needing the motivation to keep going with whatever work outs you're doing, just remember, "Pain is weakness leaving the body;"  you're getting stronger every day!

Monday, September 16, 2013

Ending Body Revolution...moving on to Killer Abs

I'm finished with Body Revolution and I'm a little bit disappointed.  I only lost about 10 pounds, but I told everyone from the beginning that my goal wasn't so much to lose weight as it was to tone my body.

I saw the biggest changes in myself during month 2, but there haven't been any changes in my weight or inches or lost during month 3.  My abs do look a little tighter, though, but my before and after pictures don't look much different than the last ones I posted. (Perhaps it really was the FreezeAwayFat Cool Shapes shorts doing all the work after all...who knows?)

I think it is a great program to build strength and get into shape physically and mentally, but I personally didn't see much change.  I saw the most change in my body when I did 9 weeks of Jillian's Extreme Shed & Shred; that's the DVD I'll really stand behind.  It's an 1 hour, 25 minutes long, but it's worth it!

I've had her Killer Abs DVD for a while now and I've done it several times, but I think I'm going to stick with it 5 days a week for the next 6 weeks and see what kind of changes I get it out of it...keep you posted!!!

Thursday, September 12, 2013

FOR SALE!

I'm selling my Jillian Michael's Body Revolution and my FreezeAwayFat shorts.  I'm doing it because I've reached my goals.  You've seen my results and you know what these products when used together can do.  It was worth the money!  But, honestly, my husband and I just really need the money...times are rough and the bills are just piling up.

Check out my listings on e-bay for FAF and BR.


***email me at kristinam0530@gmail.com with your best offer for the FAF shorts.

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Garcinia Cambogia: How to Find the Right Stuff for the Best Price

You've heard about it on Dr. Oz; you've seen it advertised on the sidebar of your Facebook; you've heard all the celebrities are trying it, and I know I told you to throw the diet pills away because I didn't want you relying on them for energy or for appetite suppression, but sometimes, I believe you do need a little help so I'm going to give you the low down.  For those of you who haven't spent days/weeks researching this new miracle, not only weight loss, but fat loss, product I'm putting all the details in one place.  

Dr. Oz brought a top researcher of garcinia cambogia onto his show to tell everyone how it works and what to look for in a garcinia cambogia supplement. Although a several celebrities have admitted to taking garcinia cambogia, no celebrity will promote any one retailer of garcinia cambogia, so don't be fooled by someone promoting a brand and putting a celebrity's name in the article.  

Garcinia cabogia works as an appetite suppressant, mood enhancer, fat blocker, fat burner, and natural energy source by blocking your liver from turning carbohydrates and sugar into fat and instead converting it into energy.  With the right ingredients, garcinia camobgia will stop your body from producing fat and instead producing glycogen, which in turn burns fat.  

Now what should ingredients should you look for?  If you watched the Dr. Oz link above then you already know, but if not, then I will tell you.  Each supplement should contain a daily dosage of at least 1,000 mg. of garcinia gambogia or garcinia cambogia extract (GCE), and at least 60% hydroxycitric acid (HCA).  HCA (the ingredient found in the rind of the pumpkin shaped fruit garcinia cambogia) has been known to release seratonin in the brain which improves your mood, stops emotional eating, and even relaxes you to help you get a better sleep (all essential to weight loss).  Also, emotional eating tends to go straight to the belly, which could be why garcinia cambogia has been shown to lead to a significant decrease in belly fat.

So those are the two most important ingredients, but there are some other important factors to consider when looking at the labels.  Since potassium and/or calcium helps your body to absorb the garcinia cambogia extract, it's important the supplement contain one of the two, if not both.  

Some garcinia cambogia supplements include chromium which can't hurt you.  Chromium has been shown to help balance insulin levels which in turn helps with the appetite suppression (and for people like me with hypoglycemia, it keeps my blood sugar level without me needing to eat every 3 hours).  It also is said that it can increase fat metabolism and the building of lean body mass.  (Check out more here.

Last but not least, there should be no fillers or artificial ingredients in the supplement.  It should be 100% pure!  If you want it to be a miracle pill, then you have to pay close attention to every word on the bottle.  

So how do you not get tricked into those "risk free trials" that if not cancelled within 14 days f your order will charge you $90 a month until cancelled?  Also, how do you not shell out your entire paycheck for a few months supply?  Here's how: go to your local GNC, search e-bay or amazon, and READ THE LABELS!  Some people will say the cheap stuff is a rip-off, but  I say that the more expensive, the more the company is out to make money...not to help people.  I believe that when a company makes a product accessible to everyone, they firmly believe in their product, and integrity means a lot to me.  

Here's a sample of a brand I found that you can find cheaply online and has all the right ingredients.  I'm not promoting the brand, I'm just trying to give you all a simple sample of what to look for.  


Saturday, September 7, 2013

Final 2 Weeks of Body Revolution!

I just finished workouts 11 and 12 of BR, which means I only have 3 more times for each workout before I've finished my 90 days of kicking butt.  Phase 3 has been difficult, but fortunately for me, I've done several of Jillian's tough workouts before and a lot of the moves I've done in those are introduced into weeks 11 and 12, so I have a small advantage there, but it's still kicking my butt.  And the 3rd cardio workout...let's just say I can make it through without having to stop the DVD, but I'm still panting and working to catch my breath at certain points; unfortunately, she doesn't give you much time to do so.

I'll weigh in and measure on the 20th...my final day!


Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Throw the diet pills away!!

Today I made a tough decision...

I've had what some people would probably consider a diet pill addiction for the past couple of years, but today, I decided to throw them all away! (More like dumping them down the disposal and turning it on until they're mush.)

I stress more about taking the pills and worry whether or not they will work and then get frustrated when they don't (because most of them don't work for long-term effects) that I think I'm making my weight loss struggles worse.  So bye, bye weight loss pills and hello vitamins!

I always thought I needed the pills to control my hunger, but my lack of calories may be why I can't lose the weight I want to.  I also told myself I was just taking them for the energy, but a good B-Vitamin and Biotin is probably all I need to keep myself moving.

So to get rid of temptation, I trashed all remnants of diet pills I've taken in the past and held on to for comfort.

I'll stick with my Body Revolution and start eating when I'm hungry, and hopefully I start seeing some changes in the near future.

If you have a diet pill addiction (if you have been taking diet pills for more than 3-6 months and/or tell yourself the things I was then you're addicted), the easiest thing to do is go cold turkey.  You can wean yourself by cutting down how many diet pills you take by 1 every week until you're down to zero, but that may only lead to thinking you can do the same thing again in the future.  So THROW THEM AWAY, avoid surfing the internet for diet pills and start searching for lifestyle changes, and finally--DON'T GO NEAR THE DIET PILL ISLE AT WALMART (or Target, or CVS, or anywhere else you may shop).   It's going to be hard, but I'm doing it with you!  And don't make someone else do it for you...in order to TRUELY change YOU HAVE TO DO IT YOURSELF!  So throw the pills down the disposal, turn it on, and walk away until you don't hear that crunching sound anymore.  ONLY YOU CAN MAKE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE IN YOURSELF!

PS- I know you're thinking about all the money you'll be waisting if you don't at least finish the bottle before throwing it away, because I'm thinking the same thing.  But it's too late now. If you want to change and you want your body to change then you've got to forget about the money and start thinking about what's more important-  YOUR HEALTH OR MONEY!?

Sunday, August 25, 2013

How do you work out when your depressed?

I was clinically diagnosed with depression when I was 12 and have spent the last 13 years struggling with it every day.  I've been off and on several different medications, and had horrible post-pardum after having my daughter, and some days it hits me harder than it does others, but I know I have to push through it because I have a husband and a 2 year old who depend on me, plus, I depend on me to get things done.

Exercise releases endorphins in your brain which, in layman's terms, make you happier.  So whenever I feel like I just can't work out either because I feel like I can't get out of bed or because I'm just not in a good mood, I remind myself that I feel so much better not only physically but mentally after a I workout.

Depression also makes some people want to eat; for me, I get stomach aches and can't stand the thought of food, either way, it's not healthy.  So making yourself eat or making yourself stop eating (especially if you're going for the junk drawer!) when you don't want to isn't easy.  It all takes mental strength that exercise can help you with!

The harder I work, the more I accomplish and the better I feel.  

It's not a bad motto to live by.  This isn't a long or even an informative post, I just wanted to let others out there who's depression often gets in the way of them trying to keep themselves healthy and in shape know that you are definitely not alone.

Body Revolution: Phase 3

I just finished my first round of the workouts I'll be doing in weeks 9 and 10 of BR and like I said before...scary!  I'm definitely glad I went and bought some 3 pound weights, because Phase 3 is beyond my Jillian fitness level!  However, she swears by the end of weeks 9 and 10 that the workout will be easy...well, we will see about that!

Week 9 has a lot of moves from Extreme Shed and Shred so that one wasn't quite as bad as week 10 which was a lot of plyometrics with weights; just imagine this: jumping lunges with 5's, jump squats into up-right rows with 5's, rock star jumps with 3's and dumbbell swings with 8's jumping forwards and backwards ...just to name a few of my least favorites. :)

Today was cardio.  My legs already felt ready to collapse when I crawled out of bed this morning, so I wasn't too excited going into Phase 3 cardio, especially when Jillian starts the introduction with "This is one of the hardest workouts I've ever created."  Awesome.  Let me just say that anyone who says BR is nothing compared to Insanity never made it to the third month.

This month's 30 minutes of cardio consists of twenty second intervals of metabolic/jump training with several plank moves thrown in the mix. There are no breathers and barely chances to take a sip of a water...26 minutes in (meaning I only had 5 minutes left), I had to stop the DVD for a few seconds to catch my breath.  I laid on the floor for several minutes afterwards trying to find the strength to stand back up. (Thank goodness I have a seat in my shower!!!! haha)

So anyone just starting month 3 and already wishing it was over (like me), just know I'm right here with you trying to find the motivation to keep going, because the workouts are really pushing my limits.  I know I can do it...but sometimes I just don't want to.  However, I try to tell myself this is my LAST month, and this is the month that is going to make my body look like a ripped, workout machine!  So I play those words on repeat in my mind as I look in the mirror and then press play on the DVD player...

Keep it up guys!!  The fact you even show up each day, do your best to make it through, and try things you never thought you could do shows strength beyond words!

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Anyone thinking they want to start Body Revolution, go through the official website to purchase the program.  It includes a special resistance band as well as Extreme Shed and Shred (my favorite) and Killer Buns and Thighs (my next thing to do after BR) at a much better price than paying for all those things separately.

Friday, August 23, 2013

The scale won't budge!

Reaching a "plateau" is a problem that EVERYONE faces on their weight loss journey.

You all know that I've been using FreezeAwayFat Cool Shape shorts (not intended for weight loss but for fat loss), and I've been doing Jillian Michaels Body Revolution 6 days a week for the past two months.  I just started Phase 3/week 9 so it was weigh-in time, but I stepped on the scale this morning only to discover that I have gained a pound in the last 2 weeks!  I've said repeatedly that muscle weighs more than fat, and that as you lose weight and gain muscle, sometimes the number on the scale won't budge because you're weight lost and muscle gained is equalling out, but that doesn't make the fact that the number on the scale isn't going down any less frustrating.

In the first month of BR I lost about 5 pounds (which isn't a lot, but when a work out like Jillian's isn't your first rodeo, your results aren't going to be as dramatic as someone pushing themselves to their limits for the first time).  In the last month, my weight has stayed between 135-137 (give and take half a pound), and I feel like I'm losing my mind because I'm working so hard (workouts 6 days a week, 1 cheat day every other week, 1200-1500 calories a day, and currently taking the all natural weight loss supplement Fenphedrine) and seeing no results...on the scale.

Here's where my two-cents for you comes in: your body knows at what weight it feels best and at what weight it wants to stay to keep you healthiest! I know this doesn't make looking at the number on the scale any easier, but I'm learning along with all of you to stop thinking about the scale and start thinking about how I feel.  My size 4 shorts are baggy and my size 2 jeans are just right, again.  I can't deny that my hard work is working on my body fat, but body feels just right at an average of 136 pounds and that's where it wants to stay despite my efforts to get my weight down to 128 (I thought 8 pounds would be easy to get rid of, but my body doesn't want to).

I was going to wait until the end of BR to share my inches lost, but I feel like now is a good time for me to help you (and help myself) by telling you all just how much my body has changed despite the lack of change in that always-on-my-mind number I see on the scale.

You already saw the pictures, but here are the numbers: (I measure every two weeks and there have been some fluctuation as I build muscle so I'm just going to do before and now measurements.)

Before BR                                          Now
Right Bicep: 11 inches                       Right Bicep: 10.5 inches (-.5)
Left Bicep: 11                                       Left Bicep: 10.5 (-.5)
Right Thigh: 23                                    Right Thigh: 22.5 (-.5)
Left Thigh: 24                                       Left Thigh: 23.5 (-.5)
Waist: 28                                               Waist: 27 (-1)
At Bellybutton: 34                                At Bellybutton: 32 (-2)
Hips: 36                                                Hips: 35 (-1)
Booty: 38.5                                           Booty: 37 (-1.5)
Weight: 137.5 pounds                        Weight: 136 pounds


As you can see, there was only a loss of 1.5 pounds in the last 2 months, but a total of 7.5 inches!  So while I can complain about my weight all I want, every time I look in the mirror I see tighter thighs, definition in my upper and lower back, and those nice little curves between my obliques and abs that gives my flat stomach some definition of muscle.

I still have some stubborn fat to lose, so I'm not going to quit working out or stop wearing my frosty pants (as my husband likes to call them), but it's not just because I want to look good, it's because I enjoy working out and watching my body change and get stronger.

I'm only 25, but I want to live to be 100, and Jillian with her butt-kicking workouts are going to get me there in tip-top shape!!!!  (I'm gonna be the hottest mom in kindergarten and the hottest grandma on the block! haha)



Saturday, August 17, 2013

Body Revolution Weeks 7 & 8

So up until now, Body Revolution was making my feel strong with how much I could accomplish during the workouts: how I could do military style push-ups now, and use 5 pound weights when everyone in the video was using 3 pounds, etc.  But then came weeks 7 & 8 and I'm dying!

I know that the point is to progress the work outs and progress your fitness level but crow push-ups into 5 minutes of plank work with only 30 seconds of rest in boat pose is NOT fun!  And that's only circuit 1!

I've just finished my 3rd go around and so I only have 1 more time with each exercise before moving on to Phase 3...needless to say, I'm  a little scared!

So for those of you trying BR, I'm right there with you pushing through!  Don't give up and I won't either!  You can always e-mail me with any questions or if you think you need some motivation: kristinam0530@gmail.com 

I am here for you!

Friday, August 9, 2013

First Set of Before and After Photos

(edited Monday, August 19, 2013)

I am halfway through Body Revolution and just finished my first 5 weeks of FreezeAwayFat Cool Shapes shorts, so I thought that I would post some before and after pictures for you. You'll notice that the photos of my back show how much I've built my upper back to make my waist look smaller--told you it works!

And the Cool Shapes shorts have REALLY shrunk the stubborn fat on my stomach. (I've lost 3 inches total from my hips to my waist!) I went from my stomach sticking out, to FLAT!  Totally awesome!  (I've still got some lower abdominal fat that needs an extra push, but that's what having babies does, right?) I really recommend combining the FreezeAwayFat Cool Shapes shorts to any diet or exercise program...I'm keeping a healthy weight, building muscle with BR, and watching the inches freeze off!


                                                  
                                      

Thursday, August 8, 2013

FreezeAwayFat Update

Yes, I cut out candy.
Yes, I'm doing Jillian Michael's Body Revolution.
Yes, I haven't even lost 10 lbs, yet.
BUT I've lost 1 inch around each thigh;  1.5 inches around my belly button; a quarter of an inch around my butt and half and inch around my hips and it hasn't even been the full 5 weeks!!!  I can't wait to see what a few months of wearing these shorts will do (I can actually see me abs!!  I've got a visible 2 pack and I'm proud of it!!)

It's worth every penny!



PS- I start weeks 7 & 8 of BR and it's really getting intense.  I know that on the reviews of BR vs. Insanity, a lot of people think BR is slow and that they enjoy REALLY sweating like you do with Insanity.  Try turning the air off and not using a fan (like hot Yoga), and have patience, because phase 2 of BR will have you sweating like a pig!  I have it dripping off my legs and into my eyes after only 28 minutes of her cardio exercises and I still get a good, hard work out and nice sweat with her front and back of body exercises.  I've always been her biggest fan and her biggest advocate after all she's done to push me to lose those 60 pounds, and the bonus of FreezeAwayFat has helped me start to actually see my abs and have a mention my legs, because MAN ARE THEY TIGHT!!  Like Jillian says: "I want you to have sex with the lights on!"

SO KEEP ON PUSHING!  I KNOW YOU CAN DO IT!

I've never offered this before, but decided it was time to really help, so if any of you have any questions or would like some advice, I will do my best to answer them and help in any way I know how, so feel free to e-mail me at krisitnam0530@gmail.com.  Just give me you first name (or an alias if you aren't comfortable, and details about whatever problems your having...I will answer you HONESTLY and if I don't have an answer, I will consult a professional.  Ask me about diet, proper ways  to do exercise moves, why you've plateaued, and even about supplements (trust me, I've tried A LOT of them).

Friday, July 26, 2013

End of Body Revolution Month 1

Today, I officially moved on to Phase 2 (month 2) of Jillian Michaels Body Revolution, and I wanted to share my end of Phase 1 Results.  I've overall only lost a couple inches, but my shorts definitely feel looser around my waist and my thighs, and I've lost 9 pounds.  I don't have much more weight to lose because I'm mostly looking to just tone up my problem areas.    Hopefully the next couple months will get me to my toned body!

I've also been using the Cool Shapes shorts and I think those are working, even though sometimes it's so cold I can sit outside in 90 degree weather and I'm still a little chilly! LOL

I have been taking Relacore.  Mostly, it's been great for suppressing my anxiety and depression; so whether or not it helps with weight loss, I don't know...I just take it to improve my mood.

I wanted to share a tip with you: If you're workout feels like it's getting easier for you (that's great!) but it also means you need to start using heavier weights.  In order to see results, a good rule of thumb: make sure you're straining on your last couple of reps.  As painful as it's been, I upped my weights to 8's (which is the heaviest Jillian goes in BR, but you can go heavier if you want), and that's when I started to really SEE the changes.

My second tip: Use heavier weights to work your back and lighter weights to work your biceps.  You're biceps are still working during back moves so you don't want to wear them out with heavy weights.  Heavy weights during back exercises will build up your back which gives the illusion of a small waist (and a sexy back!).


Thursday, July 18, 2013

MyFitness Pal

I've heard things about the MyFitness Pal for years, but just never thought it would honestly help me want to keep track of what I eat.  Well, like Jillian keeps saying during her BR workouts, you never know until you try (like I never thought I could do military push-ups, but I can), so I gave it a try and I actually found it kind of cool keeping track of everything on my phone.  You can look up thousands of foods or create your own; you can add how much water you drink, and you can even add your exercise for the day and it tells you how many calories you've eaten, and how many you have left.  It also tells you how many carbs, protein, fats, etc. you should be aiming for and adds up all the information from your foods for the day to let you know if you're over or under that amount.  It's really nifty!

I also like that since it's on my phone, it gives me something to do on there besides play CandyCrush! LOL  And it has every name brand or store brand food you can think of!  It makes things super easy...the only bad part is that if you don't have a heart monitor, it's hard to accurately put in your exercise, especially when you work out at home and don't have a machine to help you guesstimate.

I've made some pretty big investments recently, so I can't afford a heart rate monitor right now, but it's on my Christmas list. I suggest the ones used on the Biggest Loser and in some of Jillian's newer DVDs: BodyFit Media armbands count calories burned, calories consumed, and sleep efficiency and the results can either be linked to your phone via Bluetooth or downloaded with a USB cord to your computer...pretty awesome!!!  (*hint hint* to my husband!)

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

FreezeAwayFat Cool Shapes

You all know that I ordered my Cool Shapes shorts last week and they came in the mail today!  My investment was $173 but shipping was free!  The package came with 6 gel packs (only 4 are included in the $150 offer) and a mesh case to help them freeze correctly while in the freezer, 1 pair of compression shorts with 8 pockets, and a carrying/storing case for the shorts.

I think they're pretty neat.  You place the gel packs in the mesh case and place them in the freezer for 2 hours before putting on your shorts and placing the gel packs in the appropriate pockets.

I had to wear a sweatshirt while wearing them because it was kind of cold (I wasn't about to make my husband and kids suffer in the 90 degree weather with no air conditioning--but if you're home alone, you could probably save on your electric bill!).  However, it  really wasn't uncomfortable (especially since you only wear them for 30 minutes), it's just like wearing compression shorts when you work out except there's no slimy sweat dripping down them!  Now, there's no immediate results of course, but I took my measurements, so we'll see where I am in a week or two.

How many calories a day should you eat to lose weight? And how do you deal with the hunger?

One of the biggest struggles of losing weight is dealing with the hunger that comes after a good work out (because you burned a ton of calories, oh yeah!) and the hunger that sneaks up on you late at night.  While doing Jillian Michaels Body Revolution (each work out is said to boost metabolism for 16 hours!), I've noticed that my usually small appetite has grown, and finding the balance between too little and not enough is very tough.  (If you can follow her meal plan, I suggest doing it, because it'll make things a lot easier on you!)

The first step is to figure out how many calories your body needs in order for you to lose weight, and you start by finding your basal metabolic rate or BMR (this calculator will make it easier), in order to determine how many calories you need to eat to maintain your current body weight.  (Mine is 1,432 calories/day.)

Next, multiply your BMR by your daily activity:
     BMR x 1.2 if you do little to no exercise
     BMR x 1.375 if you do light activity 1-3 days a week
     BMR x 1.55 if you do moderate activity 3-5 days a week
     BMR x1.725 if you are very active
     BMR x 1.9 if you do more than the above mentioned, such playing intense sports, having a physical job, training twice a day, or just going above and beyond normal exercise

Now, take the number you get from multiplying your BMR by your activity (mine is about 2,350) and subtract 500 and that's how many calories you need to eat to lose about 1-2 pounds a week.

With Jillian, she suggests eating a 400 calorie breakfast, a 400 calorie lunch, a 400 calorie snack and 300 calorie dinner, which is only 1,500 calories a day for anyone who does her program, however, her program is to meant to push your body to lose extreme weight and get in extreme shape in just 90 days.  So you can push yourself to follow a 1,500 calorie a day diet, or you can just do the basics.

So how do you cut back on the calories?  Well, weight loss is a slow process, so don't be discouraged if you can't cut back that many calories with the snap of your fingers.

Tip 1: Drink at least 8 oz. of water before each meal. I suggest a full 16 oz. if you can, but not only does this help you get your daily water intake, but water makes you feel fuller which will help you eat less.

Tip 2: Take 20 minutes to eat the food on your plate.  It takes you brain 20 minutes to tell your stomach you're full, so the slower you eat, the less you'll eat.

Tip 3: Keep a journal.  I am the WORST at doing this, but keeping a journal of what you eat and now many calories you consume honestly helps more than anything else.  You can find an app on your phone to use, or do it the old fashioned way on pen and paper, whatever is easiest.

Tip 4: Go to bed earlier.  Whenever you start feeling hungry at night, drink a bottle of water while getting ready for bed, then go to bed early so you won't eat.  (This works double for helping you get the sleep your body needs.  A good night sleep is essential to losing weight.)

Tip 5: Get up and move. If you feel like you want to start snacking, instead, focus your mind on jogging in place, doing mountain climbers or a running man move.  You can do cross-punches in a half squat, or march in place, etc...just do SOMETHING PHYSICAL to get your heart rate up and make you not think about food.  This will also help put some more activity into your day to day life.  (I do one of these exercises about 4 times a day...but the more, the better!)

Thursday, July 11, 2013

Tip #4: Drinking Water

Did you know that ICE COLD water burns 9 more calories than room temperature water? (That must be where they started with the whole "freezing off fat" thing!)  So keep extra cool this summer!! (and fall, winter, spring...and so on! *wink*)

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Can you really freeze away fat?

Edited Wednesday, July 17, 2014, at 5:30 p.m.

All this new research has come up in the last few years that freezing fat can be an invasive (non-surgical) way to minimize those "problem areas, and until recently, it could only be done by professionals, but now it can be done at home with compression shorts and ice packs!?

"Scientists around the world have discovered that fat cells are highly sensitive to cold.  Brown fat cells, the kind we want, react to cold by becoming more active and burning more calories.  White fat cells, the stubborn fat we want less of, react to cold by withering and dying." according to the FreezeAwayFat website.  So that means the fat is PERMANENTLY gone!?  Sounds good to me!

This product is meant for people, like me, who have reached their ideal weight and are pretty close to their ideal shape, they just have a few stubborn problem areas.  I eat right, I exercise hard, but I still have belly fat on my lower abdominal area that I have spent my whole life trying to get rid of...my hips will shrink by my belly won't budge! (It'll just bulge...blah!)  I'm a sucker to try anything with a money-back guarantee so I ordered my pair with an extra set of gel packs (for a total of 6).

There are 8 pockets to place the freezer packs in that focus on a woman's main problem areas (I'll focus on stomach, love handles, and inner thighs and buttocks).  The product is to be worn for only 30 minutes but every day, and the website claims that if you follow the rules, one can lose about an inch (in each area) in 5 weeks.  (The catch is that the money-back guarantee is only for 30 days after your purchase.)  So I'm going to give it a shot and see how my pants feel after a few weeks of wearing them to determine whether or not I like them, but the research seems to suggest that this is a legitimate idea...now, we just need a real life guinea pig to see if it works! (Guess that's me!)

Go to http://www.freezeawayfat.com/ to check out more information and maybe even try your own pair...just remember, it's not a miracle, you will always need diet and exercise to lose weight and burn off fat, this just might help you get those final results you've been waiting for.

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Jillian Michaels: Body Revolution

I started Jillian Michaels 90-day Body Revolution program yesterday (it's more like 97 days, because she gives you an optional kick-off week to really jumpstart your metabolism).  I decided to start with her Kick-start week which includes two 30 minute work-outs a day (morning and evening) and a lower caloric intake than the rest of the 90 days for that first week.  You do have the option to skip the Kick-start week and go right into week one, but I wanted to see what this first week could do for me (Jillian claims you can drop 1 jean size in 1 week if you follow the meal and exercise plan).

The Body Revolution workouts use HIIT (high intensity interval training) and PHA (peripheral heart action) which causes blood flow to go from top to bottom, bottom to top, back and forth to speed up your heart rate.  These work outs are said to rev up your metabolism for 16 hours after a workout!  (I don't have any scientific proof of this, but I believe it because my appetite has increased already.)  With the kick-start week you're doing two workouts per day to make your metabolism work extra through the day and night, keeping your body burning calories at its max 24 hours a day!  This is a good jumpstart to your metabolism and your stamina for the next 90 days.

If you're a Jillian beginner, really listen to her and don't push yourself too hard the first couple weeks...just get used to her, her moves, and your body's abilities.  If you're experience with Jillian (like me) the workouts may seem boring at first so she'll give you ways to spice things up with resistance, but still enjoy the easier moves (I am, because I know how she operates, and things WILL get A LOT harder).  Even though it feels like beginner work, I'm definitely feeling a little sore, so I know I'm still getting a good workout.

Now let's talk about the food: I'm a picky eater who is horrible at diets, lactose intolerant, and doesn't like to cook, but I do like to eat as healthy as I can under my circumstances, and I am good at remembering to count my calories.  Thus, instead of following the 75-page book of recipes that comes with the program (I might actually give some of the recipes a try when I'm bored with my food; I'm sure they're delicious for people who have a different palate than mine), I've just decided to count my calories and make my calories count!  I bought some Greek yogurt for snacks (and some regular for when I just want a side dish to a meal), celery, low-fat peanut butter, carrots, bananas, tuna, some Weight Watchers frozen meals (I know the sodium in them is bad, so I'm doubling up my water intake to flush it out), and of course, I'm still drinking my Muscle Milk.

Eating healthy when you've got two kids and a husband who can eat whatever they want, whenever they want and not ever have to worry isn't always easy. There are cookies, cokes, and candy in the house that I have to train myself to avoid (out of sight, out of mind is my best tactic).

As for eating healthy when you're on a budget, if you live near a Kroger or Ruler Foods, you can get their brand of foods and save A LOT.  Muscle Milk also now comes in a powder form giving me a months worth of shakes for the cost of what used to only get me through a couple weeks.  It's the same price as Whey protein, but it tastes a lot better!  In fact, sometimes I drink one when I'm craving ice cream or a milkshake, or when I just want something sweet.

And if you're thinking you want to go the diet pill route as a supplement for an extra boost, try Relacore or Slimquick without caffeine.  Caffeine will boost your metabolism, but I know from personal experience that spending too long on diet pills or relying too much on caffeine can actually destroy your natural metabolism, cause an addiction and/or anxiety, and give you horrible withdrawal headaches, and make you sleepy when you can't get "enough."  Jillian suggests no more than 400 mg of caffeine a day, I suggest even less than that if you do it.  My biggest regret is depending on diet pills for way too long, so I've switch to filling my body with vitamins that will help me inside and out: Fish Oil with Omega 3, Biotin, pure Rasberry Ketones, DHEA, and Niacin.  It may seem more expensive than taking 1 pill, but considering the average bottle of diet pills lasts you 10-15 days, the vitamins will last you at least twice as long (but take the full recommended doses).

I know it's quite an investment spending $100 for Body Revolution, $12 for a resistance band, and then about $50 on 3, 5, and 8 pound weights (you'll need them to advance the moves and challenge yourself...some people might even need a set of 10's), and then having to replace your unhealthy foods with healthy ones, but let me tell you how worth it is...I've already lost 1 pound in 24 hours! My stomach even looks flatter already! :)



Monday, July 1, 2013

Giving Up on a Program

I started doing Insanity because of all the hype it got, but after a lot of research and reviews, I found that most people doing Insanity were already fitness instructors, or ex-military, or people who really didn't have a lot of FAT to lose, just people wanting to tone.  Thus, after 2 grueling weeks of Insanity and really pushing myself, I've decided that I don't think it's the work out for me.  My goal is fat loss; I don't need super-defined abs or arms like Superman, I just want to look lean.

I spent the entire day today doing my homework on fat loss work outs, and (no surprise here) the number 1 at home work out is Jillian Michael's Body Revolution.  Now, I've known about Body Revolution for awhile (as you know, I'm a big Jillian fan), but it was 90 days where as Insanity was only 60; however, I'm ashamed that I didn't do more homework before deciding which work out to start with.  

Now, most websites and success stories will tell you that they didn't start seeing results with Insanity until month 2, and I was willing to stick it out and keep going, until I realized that all I'm doing is bulking up muscle on top of my fat instead of replacing the fat with muscle.  In 2 weeks I've gained almost 4 pounds; I may tell people not to focus on what the scale says and instead focus on how you feel, but I've been feeling like I've gained weight and the scale proved it. 

I HATE being a quitter, but I've decided to stop Insanity and start Jillian's Body Revolution (her new technique in these DVD's is said to increase your metabolism for up to 12 hours after each work out!), and then after I've finished her 90 day program, I'll go back to Insanity for more muscle building.  I'm not saying Insanity isn't great and can't do wonders for your body inside and out, but I don't think it's the work out I'm looking for right now.  Let's get rid of the stubborn belly fat, then we'll start talking about a 6 pack.

So in honor of my new work out, I took new before photos...but I'm going to make you all sweat it out and post them with the after pictures!  Wish me luck...I'll keep you posted!

Sunday, June 23, 2013

End of Insanity Week 1: Getting through the Soreness

Today was the end of week 1 of my 60 Day Insanity Challenge (besides tomorrow's rest day), and I can tell you that it wasn't easy, but it was definitely worth pushing myself.

What motivates me to do the workouts is reminding myself that I have to push myself to my limits for only 20 minutes, and I KNOW I can do that.  The first 10 minutes or so of the dvd is a warm-up and stretching before it goes into 15-20 minutes of intensity.  

Yes, I did have to stop and take a few extra rests, and the first few days I thought my calves were going to break in half (I could hardly walk for 4 days), but I pushed through the workouts, and, sure, my entire body is sore, but I feel GREAT about that soreness...like I really accomplished something.  And actively recovering my muscles (meaning working out those sore muscles) actually helped with the soreness.  I also added a few extra stretches of my own to the end of the workouts, since I think Shaun T tends to forget to stretch your calves or any part of your upper body.

Also, a banana before my workout and a protein shake directly afterwards will help your muscles recover quicker; you need potassium and protein to help rebuild those muscles you just broke down, plus protein supplements (such as Whey protein shakes, etc.) digest quicker than solid foods and you need to consume a decent amount of protein within an hour of your workout to help with your recovery.

So those of you trying Insanity and thinking you just can't survive the sore muscles, try bananas, Muscle Milk (my personal choice bought at your local Wal-Mart or Target), EXTRA stretching, and focus on how good you feel about what you just accomplished!

"Pain is weakness leaving the body."

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Insanity: Day 1: Fit Test

I decided that I finally needed a little switch up from Jillian Michaels; however, I'm a huge fan or interval training, so I wanted to a work-out that still focused on the interval training.

I decided to take a 2 week vacation from working out while I went to California with my family, and while I was there, I saw so many infomercials about Insanity while I was watching TV at night (I don't have cable at home, so I'd never seen these before, I'd only heard about the Insanity Challenge).

I've already had several friends who have tried Insanity and seen awesome results, but I never thought I was strong enough to do it.  After watching how some people started out doing Insanity at all different stages of life, I decided to stop using excuses and just start doing it, so today, I started the 60 Day Insanity Challenge! (I'm borrowing the DVDs from a friend until mine gets here in the mail.)

During the Insanity 60 Day Challenge, you'll start with a Fit Test (which is done every 2 weeks to track your progress), and then you move on to various types of exercises averaging 45 minutes a day for 6 days a week (you get Sundays to rest).  At the end of 60 days, you can send in a before and after picture and receive an Insanity t-shirt to show everyone you had the strength to do it (although I think that the results of a strong body is enough for me).

So I'm going to track my results online to make myself push harder and show you all that you can do it, too!  Compare your results to mine, post your results in the comments, and show me that you can kick my butt!  I'm up for the challenge! :)
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During the DVD you'll have 1 minute to do as many of these as possible.
Switch Kicks: 87
Power Jacks: 35
Power Knees: 68
Power Jumps: 27
Globe Jumps: 8
Suicide Jumps: 15
Push-up Jacks: 15
Plank Oblique: 25
Weight: 139.5


I always modified Push-up Jacks during Jillian workouts because I assumed I didn't have the upper body strength to do them...clearly, I can at least do 15 in a minute, and I'm proud to say I tried and I pushed myself!  However, by the end of this less than 25 minute workout, I felt weak, tired, sweaty, and about ready to die!  LOL  But that's what this work out is all about...you'v got to be INSANE to do it!


 BEFORE picture taken a few days ago. In 60 days, I'll post an AFTER picture!

Thursday, May 2, 2013

My Progress of Shedding Inches

I decided that I probably should have posted these a while ago.  How can I give you advice if I don't show you examples of practicing what I preach.  So here are some photos of the progress I've made.

July 2011 after the birth of my daughter at 184 pounds and wearing a size 14 (all you'll see in photos from this time are of my face!)

Our wedding in January 2012 at 153 pounds and wearing a size 8

July 2012 (me on the far left) at 138 pounds and wearing a size 4

6 months ago at a wedding at 128 pounds and wearing a size 2

So, you can see the difference, even though my weight changes weren't dramatic.  I've always been focused on how I FEEL as opposed to what the scale says since I know that I'm building muscle which weighs more than fat.  I have put on a  few pounds since this last photo, but I still feel great and I still fit comfortably in my size 2 jeans (however, my quad and glute muscles are getting larger/stronger so they're a little tight in those areas, but I have to wear a belt to keep them on my waist and a flat stomach IS my goal!)  

I'll post another bathing suit picture after my trip to California next month...that's the deadline I've given myself.  :/  YIKES!!  But I know I can do it, and you can reach your goals, too!  It may take time, but you've got to have patience!  

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Tip #3: Did you know...

You can flatten your stomach and strengthen your abs just be constantly sucking in your stomach while doing every day things!

I have been standing/sitting up straight and sucking my stomach in 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year (despite when I'm sleeping and it's out of my control) since I was 14 and I've always looked like I have a flat stomach underneath my clothes!  If you slouch and stick your stomach out, your muscles slowly start to form that way--sticking out--which you'll regret later.  So work on your posture first, then work on constantly thinking about sucking your belly button in and DO IT!

It's so awesome...just the most simple tricks can make you look and feel your best!

I Want a Hard Body!

I forgot that while I was giving you a review of Jillian's new DVD Hard Body, I forgot to give you a list of the workouts!  Instead of her coveted 3-2-1 system, or her other popular technique of one circuit of moves repeated twice before moving on to the next circuit, this DVD has 6 circuits of combination moves done once all the way through and then repeated.  (There is a combination of kick-boxing, some yoga, and, of course, cardio in these circuits.)

Jillian suggests using a range of weights from 3 lbs. to 8 lbs. (going lighter at some points and heavier at others), but I only have one set of 5's, so although that makes some of the moves easier on me, it makes others harder which evens everything out and still gives me a massive burn!

(Some of the moves sound intimidating, but remember, Jillian always provides you with a beginner modification...or you can just do the super-advanced!  My tip is to LISTEN to what Jillian says instead of watching the girls, because some of the girls are a little off on doing the poses right when Jillian isn't looking.)

This is LEVEL 1:

Warm Up: 
-Over-hand jumping jacks
-Alternating step-back planks
-Twisting front kicks
-River-dance
-Skaters in chair pose

Circuit 1:
-Speed squats
-Push-ups
-Speed Rope
-Sit-up/Superman combo

Circuit 2:
-Row into lunge and curl
-Suicides
-Crunch with scissor kicks
-Chest press, chest fly, triceps banger in bridge

Circuit 3:
-Calf raise with a shoulder press in sumo
-Donkey kicks
-Weighted burpee
-Curl in crescent pose into a kick-back in warrior 3

Circuit 4:
-Side lunge with a  row into chair pose with a shoulder raise
-Skiers
-Traveling push-ups with lateral jumps

Circuit 5:
-Push-up with a row into mountain climbers
-Jump-kicks in crab
-Alternating lunges with a punch using weights

Circuit 6:
-Surrenders with mermaid
-Squat (with a curl) spinners
-Oblique raise with a side crunch
-Lat pull with a pelvic thrust

Repeat Circuit 1-6 then Cool Down

(Even though I just gave you a run-down of the moves, I ALWAYS suggest buying the DVD for modifications, motivation, and guidance.)





The Firm (An Oldie but Goodie)

So, I decided that I needed a little switch-up again from all the Jillian Michaels (by the way, after only 5 days of Hard Body, my stomach is flatter; I gained about a pound, but I'm positive it's just muscle--after all, muscle weighs more than fat, so remember how you feel and ignore what the scale tells you!). I went to the local library and rented one of my favorite dance videos by the The Firm -Cardio Dance Club which consists of 3 different dance segments (Club, Latin, and Caribbean) that are each 20 minutes long.

The reason I like this video is #1 because it promises results in 10 workouts or less and #2 it's super easy if your a beginner, or if your more advanced (like me) you can spice it up!

The results in 10 workouts or less I believe to be completely true!  On the days that I'm too worn out to do a Jillian DVD, I do and hour of Cardio Dance Club (adding 1.5 pound kickboxing hand weights for a little burn) and I still feel like I did something for the day, and I really do notice a difference (with out without the addition of Jillian).

So if you're looking to flatten your stomach quickly (because this is mostly a core/cardio dance DVD) , then I suggest Cardio Dance Club.  And like I said earlier, it's easy and fun so ANYONE can do it and be able to enjoy it without having to think too much into the moves.

(I have been doing Level 1 of Hard Body which is 40 minutes, and adding one dance section from Cardio Dance Club which is 20 minutes, for a calorie blasting 60 minute workout!  And instead of taking a full "rest" day, I do at least 1 dance section or sometimes I even do the whole 60 minutes.)
________________________________________________________

The Firm has been around for awhile, and a lot of people swear by their DVD's the same way I swear by Jillian Michaels, and I really have enjoyed the DVD's I've tried.  Their a step down from Jillian, so they're good for beginners.  The moves are simple, but the workouts will still make you sweat; so check out your local library and rent a few DVD's by The Firm and find one that you like!  I suggest adding at least one of their DVD's to your workout routine.

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Jillian Michael's Hard Body DVD

Jillian Michael's newest DVD Hard Body is a now out and kicking butts all over the place!  I just got it, so, so far, I've only tried level 1 twice, but it's already kicking my butt!  You can burn about an average of 350 calories in 40 minutes while sweating like a pig!

1. Remember my tip to work out in shorts and a sports bra in front of a mirror and keep your tummy tucked in!

2. Also, work out without a fan, and you'll sweat more which means you'll loose more water weight.  (I did Ripped in 30 level 1 and Killer Abs level 1 back to back and burned off 2 lbs of just water weight.  It's amazing how great you can feel after a nice, hard sweat!)

3. Add 3 lb weights or even just hand weights or ankle weights to that exercise you love but doesn't make you feel challenged anymore.  That will really spice things up and make you feel challenged again...plus you won't have to find a new work out to do!  (I dance or do Zumba with 1.5 lb hand weights; I also started back at level 1 on all my Jillian Michael's DVDs but upped the weights.)


Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Fact or Fiction: Caffeine is bad for you

Fiction.
Consuming 200 mg of caffeine 40 minutes before a work out is said to not only enhance performance while you work out, but is said to help the body burn more calories.   Jillian Michaels recently supported this statement in an article published in Health magazine. (She suggested drinking an espresso 40 minutes before a work out.)

I take Stacker XLPC 3 with either breakfast or lunch, because one capsule contains the suggested 200 mg of caffeine and it revs me up for my work outs.  Now, caffeine isn't something you should get too used to, but it can enhance your body's ability to burn fat; thus, I suggest only consuming a diet pill such as the Stacker XLPC 3 or an espresso before you intend on exercising, otherwise, you could end up twitchy or unable to sleep that night.  (Oh yeah, avoid caffeine 5 hours before bedtime!!)

Check out more about what caffeine can do for your fat loss!

Thursday, January 10, 2013

Tip 2: ZUMBA!

I'm sure by now that everyone has heard of Zumba, but I've been doing it for 5 years, and I still love it. 

I originally started with classes at my college gym, but after college, I couldn't afford classes, so I got online and got a used copy of Zumba Fitness: PARTY for Nintendo Wii.  It's a good workout, fun, and it calculates your calories based on your energy (you wear a belt on your hips that holds the Wii remote so it knows how your moving, how much, and how fast.)  The only thing I do not like is that you have to unlock levels to do the longer workouts, and they are all pretty much the same dances, they just sometimes go in a different order based on the length and intensity of the "class."  They have, however, come out with the Core workout for the Wii that I haven't tried, yet.  Also, the avatars are weird and it's still fun to do, but boring to watch.

Now, the Zumba Fitness: RUSH for Xbox Kinect is AWESOME!  (I'm saving up for the Zumba Fitness: CORE workout next.)  This game has several different dances, several different mixes, 10+ "classes" to choose from and "real" avatars in various settings that is fun to watch.  Also, with the Kinect, it shows in the bottom left corner how you're moving, so it's kind of like a mirror (and we all know that when working out in front of a mirror makes everyone work a little harder!).  This game, too, calculates your calories burned based on how much you move and the energy you exert.  In a mid-length, medium intensity class, I burned 376 calories; in a full-length, medium intensity class I burned 1,372 calories; in a mid-length high intensity class I burned 1,734 calories.  HOW AWESOME IS THAT!?  I'll let you know how much I've burned off whenever I get to the other class combinations!

If you don't have a Wii or Kinect, I can guarantee that you can find a class in your area to try out.  If it's something you really enjoy doing, then I suggest going to Game Stop and getting a used console and a used game.  (It'll save you time and money in the end when you can work out at home!)

I'm a working girl, too!

So, I am currently the acting manager at the Picture Me Portrait Studio in Walmart in Henderson, KY (just few minutes past the bridge from Evansville on Barrett Blvd) and I am in DESPERATE need of models for photos to be shown ONLY in my store to customers as samples of poses and photographic effects that my studio can do. I need models of all ages, so anyone can come in! (I need babies, toddlers, big kids, couples, families, etc.) Mention this blog post and receive 20% off anything you purchase. Call 270-826-1117 and book within the next 2 weeks and also receive a FREE 8x10!
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
All my friends, please post this to anyone you think would be interested. Or you, yourself can text or call me to come in! My studio is currently at the bottom of the list as far as sits and sales in my district because it has changed hands so many times and I am trying to change that. I REALLY need to show my new district manager what I can do if I want a promotion!!!! :) Thanks!!!