Mind Over Body Revolution Blog

Balanced Diet, Better Image

Monday, June 22, 2009

We have all been on a diet before and many of us have been off and on diets for quite some time, in fact people start a diet knowing they will go off it. However, many chose to change their eating habits alone and with no toning exercise involved. What happen in that case? The answer is a whole lot of shaky skin, flabby muscles, and cellulite that really does not reflect all the hard work that was put into losing weight in the first place.

Everyone knows the commitment one has to make to losing weight. So, while you are making a lifestyle change with your diet you might as well include an effective strength training program as well.

Working Out

Working out is important when you start new and balanced eating habit because as you lose weight you will want to improve your appearance with tighter skin and stronger muscles. This will make you look and feel much better because not only you will be thinner, but also more toned. The benefit of starting an exercise program as you begin your new lifestyle of healthy eating is that can tone as you lose. This will keep you motivated since your weight loss will appear even more dramatic because you will have a toned body.

Another benefit of working out as you begin your new lifestyle is that you can lose weight faster. This is because as you build muscle, you will burn more energy and therefore speed-up your metabolism. This results in more weight loss over the long term. Many people are confused about muscle because it weighs more than fat and therefore making their weight go up or stay the same. THE actual number on the scale is not important. Fitting in new clothes and feeling better will give you a more accurate idea about your fat loss.

Body Image: Lose FAT Not Muscles

Your overall body image, or the way you feel about yourself, will improve dramatically as you firm up and tone up. Certainly, if you have lost 20 pounds you will feel pretty good about yourself. But, how do you feel about yourself when you see your body in the mirror? Maybe not as good as you had hoped. That's because your skin is loose, your muscles aren't toned, and you don't have the body you had dreamed of even if you achieved the weight you wanted. Working out and toning up is the only way to achieve that smooth skin and tight muscles you dream of.

Many people diet and then find out that they still have not achieved their goal image even upon losing the weight and then are discouraged when they have to start an exercise program. Avoid this situation all together and include a healthy diet and workout plan in your new lifestyle. You will lose weight and tone up simultaneously giving you the body you had hoped for. And remember that losing weight does not necessarily means losing fat. Unavoidably, dieting without exercising can lead to muscle loss and decreased overall metabolism, making it worst for you to look and feel better.

Labels: body image, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, inspiration, mindful fitness

Mind Over Body Revolution Tip #3 (Night Anxiety)

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Mindful Tip: Bedtime is a common time to get night anxiety because suddenly, all of our convenient distractions from our worries are gone and it’s just us, our pillows and our worries. The key is not to panic!

Mindful Wisdom: The mind is like a wild stallion; it must be held back.

Mindful Action: while in bed do not think about things you need to do the next day while trying to sleep. It helps me to write down everything that I'm worried about on a piece of paper, tell myself I will worry about it in the morning, and give myself permission to not think about it all until then. Also, with nothing else on your mind, just focus on your breath as you lay there. Imagine nothing else existing besides your breath. Breath in as deep and as slow as you can.

Labels: body image, fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

Mind Over Body Revolution Tip #2 (Getting Ready)

Friday, May 22, 2009

Mindful Tip #2: If you are not ready, get ready!
It doesn’t matter if you are physically ready or not, what really matter is that you are mentally prepared to go the extra mile by knowing exactly what your heart is longing for. Finding your true core desire is the most important task at hand when wanting to get in shape in body and in mind.

Mindful Wisdom: Heart felt meditation and visualization are key to ones ability to discover true core desire.

Mindful Action: once a day, preferably early in the morning before doing anything else and start your day by sitting and going within, ask yourself if your true core desire is to be healthy and fit, listen, feel, and then act.

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, Inspiration Motivation, mindful fitness

Mind Over Body Revolution Tip #1 (Your Health)

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Effective May 14th 2009, we are starting a serie of Mind Over Body Revolution posts. As alway, I want poeple to truly experience and enjoy our posts in a meaningful way.

MindfulTip:Heart Smart Training - Like the ever-mounting hits on tobacco, on the flip side, its nemesis, exercise, continues to attract a growing crowd. Reports by the American Heart Association and others in Club Business International, suggest that heart attack patients who exercise regularly had a 40 percent lower risk of death as well as a 50 percent reduction in succumbing to cardiovascular disease after five years, compared to those who didn't.

Mindful Wisdom: Ego's trick is to make us lose sight of our interdependence. That kind of ego-thought gives us a perfect justification to look out only for ourselves. But that is far from the truth. In reality we all depend on each other and we have to help each other. The husband has to help his wife, the wife has to help the husband, the mother has to help her children, and the children are supposed to help the parents too, whether they want to or not.

~Gehlek Rinpoche

Mindful Action: You will hear it, you will read it, you'll probably try it but you will revert back to old conditioning so my advice to you is that you truly look inside of you and ask what do I want? See it! Beleive it! Create it!

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, inspiration, mindful fitness

The Tantra Chair

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

I wanted to post this blog about a wonderful product by ZenByDesign. The Tantra Chair is the finest chaise lounge in the world today. Handcrafted with the world's finest eco-friendly components, this amazing chaise lounge is wonderful for yoga, stretching, the Kama Sutra and general relaxation. Just ask the Discovery Channel, Men's Health Magazine and Elle Magazine....all whom speak very highly of this world class furniture design.

Labels: body image, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, mindful fitness

Reduce The Pressure!

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Reduce the Pressure - Stress can be an incredibly powerful drag on your fitness and health and study after study has found that when a person is stressed, the body reacts. Results of stress can lead to high blood pressure, tension headaches, upset stomachs, and many other ailments. Exercise is probably the most effective defense against stress in your life. But there’s a secret that most people don’t know, and the secret is this: It’s not the exercising part that’s hard. What’s hard is actually showing up to exercise and then keeping up the effort day in and day out. So I have one question for you: what keeps you from exercising and adhering to healthy habits so you can live the life you deserve? I can and I will help you change the things that most are not aware of, things that will transform you in mind, in body and in spirit. Just join my coaching program here.

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, inspiration, mindful fitness

Health as an Asset

Monday, May 11, 2009

Health insurance hasn't always been a part of an employment compensation package. It was born out of a World War II wage-freeze. Employers began looking for fringe benefits to attract employees, and health care eventually become a national benefit of employment.

While this system originally increased the number of people who had access to health care coverage, for many of us it has also functioned in loco parentis--in the place of a parent--creating an alarming lack of awareness in our own health and health care consumption.

But health care changes are brewing, and with the advent of more economics-based models, such as consumer-driven health plans, we have the opportunity to begin treating our health as the asset that it is.

Here's how:

1. Know your "bank balance." Just like not knowing the balance in your checking account, if you don't know your cholesterol, fasting glucose, blood pressure, BMI, weight, and lifestyle/genetics risk factors, you can't know when there has been a change that should concern you. Don't wait until you're overdrawn to find out what your balance is.

2. Get informed and ask questions. Before you visit with a health care professional, know what you want to get out of your appointment. Do your own research and have an idea of what you think will work for you and what won't. Your health care provider is your partner in building and maintaining your health and will likely appreciate your level of engagement.

3. Build your capital. Treat your health like an asset. Commit to taking daily actions that build this form of capital. The little actions (parking farther from the store entrance) and big actions (ready to quit smoking?) all matter.
Your health capital funds your ability to build the other forms of capital in your professional and personal visions. And the power of compounding interest doesn't just apply to your IRA.

Labels: body image, exercise, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

Beating Hunger at Night

Saturday, May 09, 2009

Give yourself 3 hours - Yes 3 hours before going to bed. Do not consume anymore calories. As I mentioned before, your body starts to slow down as the day goes on and gets ready for sleep. You do not want to consume a lot of calories right before you go to bed, because you will end of potentially storing those calories as FAT!!!

Your body sometimes give you a false sense of being hungry as you bedtime nears. You get those 9pm cravings... And a lot of people end up hitting the Refrigerator and over consuming right before bed time...

Not good for managing your weight and body fat %. If you just can't resist the munchies, then what I do is eat a few high good fat nuts. Like unsalted Almonds skin-on (good for fiber) or a couple spoonfuls of no sugar added all natural peanut butter. Eating a good quality fat food will satisfy your craving and will keep you from binging on something with lots of bad carbohydrates or simple sugars, like ice cream, cake or cookies.

Labels: diet, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

Nordine Z Speaking at the National Institute of Whole Health in Boston

Friday, May 08, 2009

In this video clip I speak about my story. You can share it with everyone you know and who is looking to overcome obstacles. I thank both my parents for their undeniable courage. Nordine Z

Labels: body image, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, inspiration, mindful fitness

Flush it out!

Thursday, May 07, 2009

We could say that summer has already started here in Arizona but soon we will have temperatures rising all over our graet nation. So I wanted to share a little and write about water. Water does the body good when it comes to good health. Water helps flush out toxins and other unwanted things lingering in your body. Water also replenishes fluids that help lubricate the internal body, while keeping you hydrated, lowering your desire to eat, and also helps keep your skin looking smooth and young. I know it's hard to drink lots of water, but find bottled water you enjoy the taste of or filter your tap water and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. You should be drinking at least 64oz per day up to 128 oz to keep your body hydrated and working properly.

Labels: body image, diet, exercise, fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

What’s Lifestyle Got To Do With It?

Friday, May 01, 2009

It happens to everyone. That moment when you realize that it's time to do something about your weight.

It may happen when you're looking in the mirror or standing on the scale.

Your first thought is to go on a 'diet' but as quickly as that enters your mind the ghosts of a hundred diets past return...along with all the frustration.

Then you wonder, why bother?

The weight will come back, as it always has. Then you'll be back in front of the mirror as discouraged as ever.

The answer is not to go on another diet.

The answer is to change your lifestyle.

You've heard this before, and it makes sense, right? So why haven't you done it?

Your Lifestyle Obstacles. Most people resist changing their lifestyle for two reasons.

1. Change is scary. Whether you realize it or not, your life is in a constant state of change. Though you cling to the familiar, it's a futile struggle. Change always wins.

The most consistent thing in life is change. Since you'll never escape it, you might as well channel it. It's time to make the change in your life purposeful and positive.

2. Lifestyle misconception. How many times have you heard the term 'healthy lifestyle' only to picture a health nut with celery sticks in one hand and tofu in the other? The truth is that most people think that changing their lifestyle will be an extreme and unpleasant experience - and that's not true.

Improving your lifestyle does not mean swearing off chocolate or living in the gym. You don't have to eat wheat germ for lunch and you can still enjoy a nice plate of pasta. The key is moderation.

Making the Change. It's time to lose your 'all or nothing' mentality. Embrace simple, small changes that will add up to big improvements in your lifestyle. These are your main venues for change:

•What You Eat. Let's face it, most of the foods you eat aren't the healthiest. Some are downright terrible (the burger and fries you had last week). While others are simply excessive (the snacks you eat while watching TV).

The solution to cleaning up your daily diet is NOT to go back on a 'diet'. In fact, I never want you to go on a 'diet' again. (Yes, you heard me right!) Instead I want you to make permanent healthy changes to your eating habits.

Here are some practical examples:

- Choose salad over chips or fries
- Don't add butter to your food
- Eat fresh produce with every meal
- Purchase fat free dairy products
- Limit desserts to one or two per week
- Cut out mindless snacking
- Drink water, not soda

I don't expect you to eat a perfect diet every day of the week - that'd be ludicrous. You should, however, make MORE healthy choices every day than unhealthy ones.

•What You Do. Exercise is a huge component to a healthy lifestyle, and quite frankly you're not getting enough of it. How often does an entire week go by without you ever lacing up your tennis shoes? Don't disregard the importance and power of a good workout.

Your new healthy lifestyle means exercising on most days of the week. This may seem tough, but I have the perfect solution - my training programs were created for busy people just like you who only have so much time to dedicate to exercise.

I understand how hard it is to find the motivation to stay consistent and to push yourself. Make exercise a no-brainer - contact me to get started on a lifestyle enhancing program today.

Here are simple ways to move more:

- Watch less TV
- Stretch stiff muscles every day
- Play at the park with the kids
- Go for a jog
- Do some pushups every morning

While none of the above are meant as substitutes for a solid exercise routine, they are great ways to become more active and to improve your lifestyle.
Your lifestyle is the balance of all the choices that you make regarding your body. Swing the balance in your favor - make a majority of your choices health conscious.

So the next time you're in front of the mirror you won't worry about your weight.

You'll relish it.

Labels: body image, fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, inspiration

Who Are You Blaming?

Saturday, February 28, 2009

Whose fault is it that you're out of shape?

If you go by what you hear in diet ads then you believe that it's anyone's fault but yours.

The big diet companies think that if they put the blame on you, then you wouldn't buy their bogus pills. So they put the blame on your cortisol levels, your modern diet (ie fast food), or your busy schedule instead of where it belongs - which is squarely on your shoulders.

Sure, you have obstacles that get in your way - your schedule, your job, your kids, the weather, your knee injury from college...but ultimately you have the body that you accept.

I'm going to repeat that so it will really sink in.

You have the body that you accept.

Embracing the blame for your current weight is not a bad thing - it's empowering. Think about it. If it really wasn't your fault, if it really was due to a long list of variables that you have zero control over, then you'd be stuck. You'd have no way to change.

The Secret Behind 'Before and After' Pictures

Allow me to pull back the curtain for you on something that the diet industry doesn't want you to know. You've seen countless before and after pictures documenting weight loss as a result of a diet product. Well, there is more involved than just the diet product, and it's the same across the board.

Look into the eyes of any person in their before picture and you'll see that they are disturbed. The body they have is no longer in sync with the body they can accept.

They changed the body that they accept.

Now look into their eyes in the after picture - see the sweet satisfaction? They now own the body that they decided they could accept. And what a great feeling that is.

Your Time To Transform

Whether you realize it or not, you already posses everything you need to transform your body, but it all starts with taking responsibility for the body that you have today. You have your current body because until this moment you've been OK with it.

Oh sure, you aren't thrilled with it, and you even talk about losing weight and getting fit, but you haven't changed what you'll accept. Here's how to transform your body in 3 steps:

Step One: Get Disturbed

You've heard it said that emotion creates motion. This is essential when it comes to losing weight. Just like those folks in the before pictures, to transform your body you must first decide that you can't live another day in the body you currently have.

It's time to get your emotions stirred up. Make a list of all the reasons that you must lose weight and get fit. Get disturbed!

Step Two: Get Focused

Without clarity it's very hard to get where you want to go. Now that you're disturbed with the body you have, it's time to decide what the body you can accept looks like.

I want you to think in concrete and specific terms. Just like the captions under those before and after pictures - "Suzy lost 25 lbs", "Mike lost 8 inches from his waist", "Jenny went from a size 18 to a size 6" .

Get a clear picture in your mind of what you'll look like in your after picture and visualize what the caption will read.

Step Three: Get Moving

The time spent between your inspiration (now) and your action determines whether you will succeed or fail. Don't allow yourself to get stuck between inspiration and action - there is always something that you can do right now.

Don't you agree that you'll be happier living life in a fit, healthy and attractive body, rather than the body you have today? Of course you'll be happier.

I've helped scores of clients just like you finally lose their unwanted weight.

I am here to take you from your before picture to your after picture, however, you need to bring something to the table - you need to make up your mind about what you'll accept of yourself.

What will you accept?

Contact me!

Labels: body image, fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

DARRYL: THE MEDICAL STUDENT WHO HEALED HIMSELF

Sunday, January 18, 2009

When he first came to me, Darryl was a medical student suffering from acne, poor diet, lack of exercise and overweight. In addition, he felt constantly fatigued from his stressful life of studies, erratic sleep habits, exams and more studies. Although he was one of the most hyper-scheduled people I’d ever met, let alone trained, Darryl managed to carve out the time to reorganize his life, to work out, eat right and meditate for a few moments each day. The resulting evolution of his spirit, mind and body brought him radiant health, muscle gains and lasting weight loss.

Although all of my clients inspire me, Darryl was a special case because he managed to do such a good job despite severe scheduling constraints. Darryl is now a practicing physician who embodies radiant health for his patients; his case proves that even the most multi-tasking person can exercise their way to excellent condition in less than an hour or so a day. (Lack of time is one of the most common excuses people give me for not working out. I always tell them that if clients like Darryl can find the time to get in shape, then they can, too.)

Darryl used his powerful intellect to psych himself into total health. Here are some affirmations from Darryl’s mental diet:

“I will never give up because I am climbing the mountain of happiness.”
“I have the ability to love and support myself.”
“I am improving my inner world in order to change my outer world.”
“I am moving closer towards spiritual, mental and physical health.”
“I am stronger than my fears because I acknowledge them.”
“I am a well-rounded beautiful being.”
“I draw my energy from the Universal life force.”
“Life is a miracle and I am lucky to be living it.”

If you are or know of someone who's overweight, overstressed and overworked please share the story with me on this blog.

Labels: body image, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, inspiration

The Pro’s Tips For Successful Weight Loss

Saturday, December 27, 2008

I remember the moment I realized I was no longer a professional athlete. It was in 2002, a year after I had retired from the International Federation of Body-Building (IFBB). I was languishing on the treadmill in my neighborhood gym after a long day training people session after session, when a huge and ripped guy walked in and began warming up with 220 lbs before starting his legs training session and disgustingly bulging his gigantic body. I smiled weakly in his direction and thought; I used to look like that not too long ago. And of course when he passed me, I ran faster like there was no tomorrow.
Obviously, my 60-minute training sessions weren't having the same chiseling effects as the 4-hour training sessions I endured when I was in a competitive level. That's when I realized I'd have to change my stay-in-shape strategy. Here are a few of my pro-to-real-world fitness secrets.

Pro tip #1: Visualize the body you want.
Many professional athletes practice visualization, which means picturing themselves going through the motions to achieve a certain goal — complete with sounds, colors, tastes and smells — and have seen it pay off big time. During my 7 year professional career, I spent 10 minutes a day visualizing and looking at my body the way I wanted it to look and feel, the result that I mentally conceived in the visualizations were experienced in my training sessions, making them tremendously intensive and effective. Now, whenever I work out, I close my eyes and visualize my arm and leg muscles flexing, my heart pumping strong and my body looking ripped.

Pro tip #2: Set realistic goals.
You aren't likely to hear some rookie say he plans to win the Olympia championship (the highest bodybuilding competition) when they finished in last place the year before and he has yet to get off the bench. In other words, most professional athletes set realistic goals. So face it: You're not going to lose 30 pounds by your 10-year class reunion next weekend. (A more realistic goal is approximately two pounds per week.) Focus on taking one baby step at a time, keeping your ultimate goal in mind. It will be all the more rewarding when you finally get there!

Pro tip #3: Find a workout that works for you.
My challenge after retirement was to maintain the weight and body fat composition I had achieved as an elite athlete. No easy task when you're working a full-time job, right? Because keeping in shape also means aerobic activities, my body was used to fast, quick, blood-flow — something like pedaling on the stationery bike or walking/running on a treadmill couldn't match. But then I created a full body workout that uses strictly dumbbells, body bars and medicine balls, I call it the Total Body Work, I even made a DVD out of it. It was perfect for me because, in only 40 minutes, I get a cardio-toning workout equal to working out 2 hours with machines at a crowded gym. When time is an issue (and when isn't it?), you need to focus on finding workouts that give you the biggest bang for the buck.

Pro tip #4: Check your fuel gauge.
While you'd never put sugar in your gas tank, many of us put junk into our bodies on a regular basis and then wonder why we don't have the energy to get through the day. While training for the World Championships, I made myself eat healthfully because it was very obvious that my physical and my mental shape depended upon it. After I retired, however, I developed a weakness for junk food, despite the fact that it made me feel sluggish. Then my yogi master reminded me that I'd only been addressing half of my fitness dilemma. Besides focusing on exercise, I also needed to eat more wisely. Now I give in to my junk food cravings only one day a week, and my body feels and looks much better.

Pro tip #5: Make appointments with your body.
It's easy to put your body first when it's the source of your income. Still, as soon as I finished my training session, I started filling my calendar with clients’ one on one session. No wonder that at the end of most work days, I was either too zonked or too preoccupied to go to the gym. So on Sunday nights, I began checking my calendar to determine my business and social obligations for the week, then penned in when I planned to work out each day, literally making appointments with my body to exercise. And just like I faithfully stuck to the rest of my schedule, I never once canceled a workout. I made an appointment with myself.

Pro tip #6: Always be ready to work out.
As a professional athlete, competing and working out are always in the forefront of your mind. The rest of us have 28 million other things to think about, which means that we need to make exercising as convenient as possible. I joined a gym close to home, and being able to drive, run or bike there has proven effective in keeping me on a consistent schedule, regardless of the weather. For added motivation, I always keep a clean set of workout clothes in my car so I can head to the gym or the local park on a whim. (After all, if you don't go home first, you won't find excuses to stay home.) I also keep a stash of fitness gadgets in my closet, including a medicine ball, workout bands and a stability ball. These let me exercise my entire body and, because they're so different from what I usually do at the gym, I generally look forward to using them again. Plus, most of these items travel well, which allows me to workout when I'm on the road.

Pro tip #7: Great bodies think alike.
While being a pro athlete I had an entire organization looking after me— not to mention a paycheck — to motivate me to stay fit. In the real world, we have to find other sources of motivation: friends, family, even a local sports team. When you've entered into a pact with someone else, you're more likely to remain committed. Once you've found a workout partner, consider signing an agreement that outlines your fitness goals. Seeing your fitness dream written down on paper may give you the boost you need to achieve it.

Pro tip #8: Celebrate your successes.
When I was a pro, working out regularly and being in top shape was a given. These days, I feel an incredible sense of achievement whenever I complete an ordinary 40-minute workout. Sure it’s nothing compared to the super-intensive workout sessions I use to go through when I was competing but now I am happy that I am able to keep training for fitness and for health. You can give yourself little rewards here and there — as long as it's not junk food. Instead, splurge on a bouquet of flowers or a smoothie, or celebrate your successes with something bigger, such as a pedicure, a facial, a night out with friends or even a trip!

Labels: body image, exercise, fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

5 Signs That You're Doing it Right

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Ever wonder just how effective your workout routine really is?

Maybe you saw great results when you first started to exercise, but now those results have come to a screeching halt.

Want to know why?

If the following 5 statements accurately describe your exercise routine, then fear not-you're doing it right. However, if the following 5 statements don't describe your exercise routine then listen up-there's no better time than now to rev up your routine.

1. You Make the Most of Each Move: Gone are the days when workouts lasted more than an hour and you had time to single out each muscle individually. These days time is of the essence, and compound movements deliver excellent results in less time than ever before.

Not sure if your routine includes compound movements? Any exercise that uses two or more joints is considered to be a compound movement. Squats and lunges are great examples. If you want to pack even more benefit into each move then try adding a shoulder press with your squats and a bicep curl with your lunges.

2. You Keep it Intense: Let's be honest, at one time or another you've spent time in the gym 'exercising' without ever breaking a sweat. Maybe you drifted from one machine to the next or joined an aerobics class for a few minutes, but the bottom line was that your heart wasn't into it.

Workouts that lack intensity are practically a waste of time. Your body craves a challenge, and you see the most results when you keep your intensity high. Keep your workouts concise and push yourself with each exercise.

3. You're Consistent: Anyone can have one great workout, but one workout won't translate into killer results-only consistency will do that for you. Exercise must be a part of your daily routine, plain and simple.

One of the best ways to stay consistent with your routine is to do your workout at the same time everyday. We are creatures of habit, so once your exercise schedule has been firmly set you'll find the process to be automatic, rather than an occasional afterthought.

4. You Seek a Challenge: Just like hairstyles, exercise routines quickly become outdated. That is why the best routines are dynamic, and the worst routines never change. How do you know when your routine needs to be updated?
You'll know how effective your routine is by the results, or lack there of, that you experience. If you feel that you are simply going through the motions then stop wondering about the effectiveness of your routine and start doing something new. I however think that basic exercises such as squats, curls, chest press, overhead press, etc... should be kept if you see results.

5. You're Having a Blast: Do you dread the very thought of going for a jog, but force yourself to do it simply because you've no other ideas for exercise? Stop right there. Exercise is an enjoyable activity, especially when you find the form that is best suited for your personal preferences.

If you don't like exercise there is a good chance that your technique needs help. I pride myself in showing my clients the fun side of exercise-yes, exercise is fun!

If your routine includes all of the above then congratulations – you are doing it right. You're consistent, you challenge yourself and you're seeing results. However, if your routine doesn't include the above, you now have the blueprints to do it right.

Labels: body image, fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

Small changes make a big difference

Thursday, October 02, 2008

How many times have you told yourself that you need to lose weight?

I'm not talking about a couple pounds either – I'm talking about 20 or more pounds of extra fat that you'd like to see disappear.

I've come to notice a trend. Most people psyche themselves out before they ever start losing the weight. It's as if the enormity of their goal simply puts them into shut down mode, and they give up on the idea entirely.

Has this ever happened to you? You try out a diet or exercise plan for a week or so, and then you get frustrated when your body looks the same as before. So you give up.

Weight loss isn't a speedy thing. It takes time to gain weight – many people put on weight for years and then expect to lose it in a few weeks or months. It doesn't work that way.

So instead of pressuring yourself into losing 50 pounds in two months, how about sticking with a realistic, proven way for long term weight loss: Small changes to your lifestyle over time will make the difference.

In practical terms, make it your goal to drop one pound a week.

Now, this may not seem like that much, but if you did this consistently for one year it would result in 50 lbs lost. All it takes are small changes in your daily lifestyle. Let's break the process down...

How to shed a pound a week: Burn 3500 extra calories.

It really is that simple. Try the following three steps:
Record your normal weekly exercise – look at everything from walking to participating in sports to exercising in the gym. This is your starting point. You need to burn an additional 3500 calories on top of your normal weekly exercise. If you don't currently exercise, then this step is really easy for you, a simple blank page will do.

Record your normal weekly food intake – this may be hard to do honestly, but remember that you are only cheating yourself by not recording everything. Calculate the total number of calories that you eat in an average day. In your quest for dropping inches you shouldn't exceed your normal daily caloric intake – you should, rather, work at slowly decreasing that number. Remember, we are going for a 3500 calorie deficit each week – this can be done by a combination of increased calorie exertion (exercise) as well as a decrease in calories consumed (eating less).

Chart the difference - now that you know your starting point for both calorie exertion and calorie intake it is time to turn the tables in your favor. Take every opportunity to exert more calories by increasing your physical activity, and to decrease your calorie consumption by eating fewer calories and by making healthier selections. Record your progress in a notebook and refer back to it often. You will be surprised how encouraging it is to see your progress written down on paper.

Remember, if you burn up 500 calories a day you will drop a pound in a week.

Here are some practical ways to lose calories:

If you normally...Do this instead...
Drink regular soda pop...Drink water or diet soda pop (160 calories lost)
Eat a snack from a vending machine...Enjoy an apple (180 calories lost)
Hit the snooze button in the AM...Jog for 30 minutes before work (150 calories lost)
Skip your workout...Call me for an invigorating workout (changes your life!)

Weight loss doesn't have to be allusive. Make small changes each and every day toward a healthier, fitter you. Remember that small changes make a big difference.

I'm always available to help – call or reply to this email to set up your free coaching consultation.

Labels: exercise, fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

Emotion Creates Motion

Friday, September 19, 2008

Can you remember a time when you felt completely discouraged with your body? It's easy to beat yourself up when the body that you have is miles from the one you want. When negative emotions flood over you resist the urge to get down on yourself, rather turn the tides in your favor. You may have heard the expression 'emotion creates motion'. This is a very powerful tool. Channel your dissatisfaction with your body into 'motion'. Take control of your body and put a plan into action. The choices you make always determine your destiny, you maybe heard that too but have you given a thought to it at all?

Labels: exercise, fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, inspiration

The 5 Most Outrageous Weight Loss Myths

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

These days you can't go anywhere without hearing about a new weight loss breakthrough. A pill, a cream, or a new fad diet - you name it and it's going to solve all of your weight loss problems in 30 days or less. Or not.

The truth is that most of the things you hear about weight loss are hype. Plain and simple.

Here are the top 5 myths about weight loss:

Myth #1: You can spot reduce fat from specific areas of your body
This myth is as old as the hills, yet it persists. It must be that the thought of melting fat from any desired part of the body is so appealing, however untrue it may be.

In reality your body will lose weight wherever it wants to. It's safe to assume that you'll lose fat 'last place on, first place off'. So if you put on weight first in your thighs and then on your waist, then expect it to come off your waist first and then your thighs.

Myth #2: You have to count calories for weight loss

There are so many fad diets out there that paint the picture that weight loss is a complicated process. You have to eat certain foods at certain times and avoid other foods at all costs. Of course all of these popular diets conflict over which foods you should or shouldn't eat.

The truth is that you don't have to make weight loss such a science. Simply eat healthy fresh foods that haven't been processed, and eat smaller amounts than you're eating today.

No brain science there, just results.

Myth #3: You will bulk up with resistance training

I can't tell you how many times I've heard women tell me that they won't do resistance training because they don't want to bulk up. Each time I have to hide my smile.

You see, the process of bulking your muscles takes a lot of hard work. You have to consume high amounts of protein and you have to consistently tax your muscles to fatigue. And you have to have the male hormone testosterone coursing through your body. In short, there is no way to accidentally bulk up.

Myth #4: You can get a six pack from crunches

Just focusing on crunches will not make your midsection chiseled. Hey, ab crunches are great, and you should do them, but don't rely on them to get into great shape.

A trim midsection will only come as a result of proper nutrition, effective cardio and consistent resistance training.

Myth #5: Cardio is the most important exercise for fat loss

Most people think of cardiovascular activities when they think of working out. Going for a run, riding a stationary bike, or taking an aerobics class. Well, times have changed and so should your workout.

The benefits of resistance training now trump straight cardiovascular training. Resistance training strengthens your heart while toning muscles and increasing bone density.

Cardio workouts are not completely a thing of the past, they should fit into your overall plan for health and wellness. The benefits of resistance training, especially in fat loss, are astounding.

Do you have other weight loss beliefs that simply aren't delivering results? Call or email me today and I'll help you bust the myths, discover the truth, and create a fitness and fat loss program that will give you the body that you deserve.

Labels: body image, fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

Is Your Goal Smart?

Friday, August 15, 2008

The much anticipated 2008 Beijing Olympic games are now in full swing. I find it inspiring to watch athletes perform at the top of their game, don't you?

It's amazing to see what the human body is capable of when it's trained for a particular event.

Every athlete in the Olympics has trained for thousands of hours in a very specific way for their sport. These athletes know precisely what they want their bodies to do and they train in a focused manner to be the best. You can bet that they see a gold medal every time they close their eyes. Now that's focus.

What about you? What do you train for?

You see, whether you realize it or not, you too are training for a specific reason. Maybe your goals are more in line with losing 15 pounds rather than winning a gold medal, but your training needs to be just as specific in order to achieve your desired results.

Do you know why you exercise? Is it to lose weight? Is it to lower your blood pressure? Is it to shrink your waist? Is it to pick up a bag of groceries with more ease?

The first step toward getting the body of your dreams is to set a goal. This simple act, when done correctly, will instantly calm your frustrations and fill you with hope.

Here's how to make your goals SMART.

Specific: Ask yourself questions like: How many inches do I want to lose? What pant size do I want to be? Be painstakingly specific with yourself. It has been proven that the more specific your goal is the more likely you are to achieve it.

Measurable: You've got to be able to measure your results. It could be in pounds or body fat percentage or inches. It could even be fitting into a particular pair of pants that you haven't worn in years. The key is that you need to be able to physically measure your progress.

Attainable: If you have fifty pounds to lose it won't all come off in one month. Setting unattainable goals simply sets you up for failure. If you have a major fat loss goal then break it down into small attainable goals. As you achieve each smaller goal you will reinforce your progress and ultimately can attain any desired goal.

Realistic: This step is all about knowing yourself. What type of program would you realistically stick with? If you despise running then don't base your weight loss program on 6am jogs. Look honestly at your abilities, but don't underestimate yourself either. You'll need to push yourself to achieve your goal.

Timely: Every great goal is set on a timeline. Keeping the above steps in mind, give yourself an exact date and time that your goal needs to be accomplished by.

Now it's time to get to work. Write down your SMART goal and place it somewhere that you see often then tell three people of importance in your life about your goal.

Have the focus and the drive to pursue your SMART goal, just like the Olympians, and go make yourself proud!

I love nothing more than seeing my clients achieve their goals. Call me at the number above or reply to this email to get started on a fitness program that is specific to your goal.

Labels: body image, fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, inspiration, mindful fitness

TV Interview with Nordine

Thursday, July 10, 2008

In this interview, I explain the theory behing my book Mind Over Body.

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

Summer time means one thing – it's barbecue time!

Thursday, June 26, 2008

While outdoor cookouts are a great opportunity to relax and visit with friends and family did you know that the average barbecue meal exceeds 1500 calories? That's almost an entire day's worth of calories in one meal.

That can really added unwanted inches to your waist line over the course of the summer.

The good news is that barbecue season doesn't have to be fattening. In fact, with a few small changes to your barbecue menu you can turn summer into the perfect opportunity for weight loss.

So before you slather on the sun screen and fire up your grill, read the following tips to lighten up this summer.

On the Grill: Believe it or not, grilling is actually a very healthy way to cook meat. Of course the type of meat that you choose will make all of the difference. Burgers and hot dogs are traditional barbecue meats, though they aren't the healthiest. Try the following:

- Choose lean cuts of beef, pork or poultry
- Marinade with low fat dressing
- Make hamburgers with extra-lean ground beef
- Take the skin off chicken before grilling
- Replace beef patties with ground turkey patties
- Grill up salmon or cod
- Forego the meat and grill veggie burgers

Side Dishes: This is where most people run into trouble. Barbecue side dishes are typically filled with one thing - fat. Creamy coleslaw and potato salads can hold as much as 15 grams of fat per serving. Try the following:

- Make veggie kabobs and grill them
- Replace the mayo in your salads with low-fat mayo
- Serve fresh salad with light vinaigrette
- Try whole-grain macaroni for your pasta salad
- Grill up corn on the cob
- Put out a veggie tray with low fat dip

Drinks: Most people don't realize that beverages play a big role in summer weight gain. Margaritas, beer, soda pop and punch all contain tons of empty calories. Try the following:

- Drink water, it is always your healthiest option
- Stick with light beer (if you really want to drink beer)
- If you have to have a soda pop stick with diet
- Brew unsweetened ice tea and serve with lemon

Dessert: Yes, there are ways to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying healthy. Think outside of the box instead of turning to the typical fattening options like ice cream, pie, cake or cookies. Try the following:

- Grill mango, banana and pineapple on kabobs
- Stick with sorbet instead of ice cream
- Replace peach pie with grilled peach halves
- Choose light ice cream over regular

Remember, it's ok to splurge every once in a while. Enjoy yourself. Just keep in mind that by taking a few of the above suggestions you can enjoy great food while getting back into great shape.

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

The Mind Over Body Solution

Monday, June 02, 2008

You see dieting is not just what you eat. What are you really feeding your body? What is your mind feeding it? What is your spirit feeding it? This will all eventually show up in your physical state of being.Your fitness level is very much controlled by how you think and feel. Your body is a direct reflection of the inner soul. What are you really carrying around? It may be more than a few extra pounds. Blocking emotion and carrying negative thoughts can cause you to carry extra weight. Weight can actually be an armor built up to create a wall that actually keeps you from being who you really want to be. Break through that wall and you will begin to create the physical body you want to achieve. If our physical being is our car that we ride in, it is the mind and the spirit that drives it.

Most people think losing weight, looking great, and getting fit has to do only with exercise and diet and this is really only a tiny part of success-only a tiny piece of the puzzle. It’s a behavioral pattern caused by a certain belief system or old conditioning that is responsible for past failures. The Mind Over Body Solution is a new approach that will reprogram your life, the way you think and feel and in turn affect the way you look.What I’m talking about here is a process I developed of total health and fitness that includes physical, mental and physical aspects. The biggest secret I’ve learned and the reason most people don’t succeed in getting fit, losing weight or even achieving a happy contented life (and remember I’ve trained thousands) is that these people try to start from the outside-in (ego-thought causing certain behavioral patterns by using external motivation) rather than from the inside out (soul-energy fueling your inspiration).

If you have tried diet after diet, hired trainer after trainer, bought program after program but still failed, then give yourself a chance and join the Mind Over Body Solution Coaching Program. I promise you will not fail!

http://www.nordinez.com/coaching

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

The Inner Diet

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Find Out Why You Are Not Losing Weight!!!

My good friend Dr. John Sklare , Ed.D, President Inner Resource Corporation and creator of The Inner Diet have made a joint effort to bring you the best assessment tool available today. The Inner Diet is not simply a product that I sell…it's a program that I believe in. If you're tired of yo-yo dieting and making poor health choices, I recommend that you incorporate The Inner Diet into your weight loss and wellness program. This personalized program will provide you with the awareness, the understanding and the direction that you need to create real change…from the inside.

As The Inner Diet so aptly states, you can't change your weight until you change your mind! I couldn't agree more!! The Inner Diet is a personalized tool that addresses emotional eating. After completing the questionnaire, your answers are computer analyzed. The result is your own unique Inner Diet Personal Profile.

This profile will do three things for you. First, it will specifically identify which of the six Inner Diet "emotional triggers" are causing you to overeat. Second, it will provide you with an explanation of your six scores. And finally, The Inner Diet Activity Book will provide you with specific instruction on how to effectively address those underlying issues. Combined with the application of the process of my book Mind over Body: the Key to Lasting Weight Loss Is All in Your Head, you will have no more excuse left and will be way ahead of the weight loss inner game you have been playing all along.

Click here to get started!

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

Backward Fitness

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

As you can imagine, I hear a ton of excuses from people on why they don't exercise.

Sometimes the reason is self inflicted: I don't have the time.

Other times the reason is procrastination: I'm going to start as soon as tax season ends.

And occasionally the reason is downright funny: The dog ate my gym shorts.

I usually point out to these well meaning folks that, despite their reason, exercise is a very important activity that will dramatically improve their life. I bring up the health benefits and describe how many of their physical ailments would improve. I talk about how great they will feel dropping excess weight and rediscovering a slender figure.

However, there was always an excuse that would get me.

The devious excuse of 'being active': Oh, I don't need to exercise in a gym - I'm very active. I play tennis and hike in the summer and I ski in the winter.

Well, they have a point, right? Tennis, hiking and skiing are all active sports that burn calories. Maybe they can be fit without doing any other exercise, especially if they are at a reasonable weight.

Then I started to notice a trend.

The 'active' people couldn't touch their toes in a simple flexibility test. The 'tennis players' couldn't jump rope for 60 seconds. The 'hikers' needed a week to recover from a one mile jog. The 'skiers' encountered injury after injury. And then it hit me.

You don't become fit by simply being active. That's backward fitness.

Only by being fit can you become more active.

To become and maintain a level of fitness there is no replacement for a consistent exercise program. It's the only way.

True fitness is when your body can do whatever you ask of it. This means having flexibility, strength and endurance.

Do you exercise? Or are you fooling yourself with the excuse of 'being active'?

How happy are you with your level of fitness? Are you able to meet all of the functional demands of life? Or do you find yourself opting out of experiences or situations that you know would be too challenging?

If you've used the excuse of 'being active' in the past, it's time to reconsider your options. Don't practice backward fitness with the hope of true results.

Contact me to get started on a program that will make you truly fit. And if you're furthest from active and simply want to lose those extra inches and pounds, make the decision to take action today.

After all, there's no trial run in the game of life.
Be Excellent
The most important aspect in becoming and staying fit is to be persistent. You can exercise every day for a week, but if you follow that week with a month of no exercise then you've lost all ground. Find an exercise program that you are able to consistently do and then stick with it. In the words of Aristotle, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

Why Aren’t You Inspired?

Friday, April 11, 2008

A good dose of inspiration can change your life almost overnight.

The best part of my job is seeing clients achieve amazing results. Whether they drop a few sizes, lose the baby weight, get off their blood pressure meds, or shrink their waist the excitement is always contagious.

There really isn't a clear way to describe the euphoria that settles in once you've realized your fitness goal. You have to experience it.

Though each successful client is unique with different goals one element unites them.

They are all highly inspired.

You see, I am in a unique position. I know how to get you (or anyone else who walks through my door) into great shape, in mind body and spirit. I can coach you through a 50 pound weight loss therefore regain control of your life. I can guide you to a healthier body and reclaim the happiness you thought you've lost. I can even train you into a toned athlete and do things you've never thought possible.

But there is one catch

You'll need to be inspired, not motived, inspired.

See, saying that you want to get into great shape isn't enough. You need inner inspiration-and that's just half of the equation. The other part (and the most important) is ACTION.

Nothing happens until you take action.

You can want it, think about it, mull it over, ponder it, plan it, and then re-plan it. But nothing happens until you take action.

While I may not know your story-it's probably safe to assume that you are dissatisfied with your body and know that you can improve your fitness level. You want to look better, to have more energy, to experience fewer aches and pains, and to enjoy sweet satisfaction as you achieve your goals once and for all.

I know that all of my successful clients were once in your shoes. They wanted to change their bodies. They felt urgency. And then they did what most fail to do. They took action and contacted me.

But there is more to it than that. They then committed to a program, put in the exercise, stuck to their diet and met their goals. There's nothing more gratifying than getting back into those jeans that now sit in the back of your closet.

Those that take massive action get massive rewards. And those that simply talk about losing weight will continue to put weight on, pound after pound. I hate to put that way, but it's the truth.

So what do you want?

To get rid of stress

To drop 20 pounds

To feel younger

To look better in your birthday suit

How bad do you want it? How much inspiration do you have? Enough to take MASSIVE ACTION?

Remember that inspiration is looking inside for the strength to go on. Motivation is merely the art of looking outside for things that only last a short while.

Look inside, the rewards are great IF you do.

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

The Inner Action Taker

Saturday, March 15, 2008

Spring is here and that means one thing - it's time for spring cleaning.

The word alone conjures up the image of a garage too filled with junk to walk through, let alone park a car, and closets filled to capacity.

When things get this out of hand it's easy to just give up.

Why put your shoes on the rack when you'd have to climb over a stack of newspapers to reach it? It's easier to throw them down by the door. Why hang your coat up when the closet is a disaster area? It's easier to drop it over the back of a chair.

What does this have to do with fitness and weight loss? It's actually a striking analogy for where many of my clients are before they find me.

They've given up.

Why eat a salad when you're thirty pounds overweight? It's easier to enjoy a heaping plate of pasta. Why go to the gym after work when it will just make you sore? It's easier to relax on the couch.

Living life with unwanted excess weight is like allowing your garage to stay clogged with junk. It's a discouraging place to be.

The good news is that you aren't stuck.

In the same way that you take a weekend to roll up your sleeves and get that garage cleaned out, it's time to take a month or two (or more depending on where you are in relation to your goals) and drop down to your ideal weight.

I know I'm making it sound easy, and when you approach it this way it is easy.

Beware: There are two ways to approach weight loss, one will leave you discouraged and frustrated while the other will get you fit. Which approach do you use? Read on to find out...

The Diet Dabbler

You know this person. Every month they are trying out a new diet, one week they can't eat carbs and the next week they are only eating soup. They feel guilt about food and are unable to experience the results that they want.

Exercise is equally as spotty and is done in bursts. One month they power walk on their lunch break, a few months later they try taking a class at the gym. Results aren't achieved and the programs are abandoned.

Maybe you can relate.

The entire problem with the Diet Dabbler mentality is their lack of consistency. The only thing consistent is that their frustration grows with every failed attempt and their weight continues to rise.

The Action Taker

You also know this person. This is that guy or gal who buckled down and lost the weight with the use of a massive plan of action. They teamed up with a professional, they stuck with a diet plan and they exercised hard. And in a short time their body was transformed.

Guess what? Now that Action Taker is in maintenance mode-the best place to be. They look great, they feel great, their cloths fit just right and they're loving every minute of it.

Maybe you're thinking "I tried to lose the weight and it didn't work, so this won't work for me either." Forgive me for putting it bluntly, but you're wrong.

Maybe you've dabbled with diets and exercise only to come away frustrated. I understand. Many of my clients have experienced that same frustration before they found me.

Here's the bottom line: it's time to tap into your inner Action Taker, roll up your sleeves and do what it takes to drop down to your ideal weight.

Get serious about your results and begin the last weight loss program that you'll ever do. Contact me today to get started on a program that will deliver results.

Then you can kick your diet dabbling days to the curb.

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

Do Your Kids Exercise?

Thursday, February 21, 2008

A recent study from the University of Washington showed that more and more 2-year olds are regularly watching television. This sets the stage for a sedentary life with an increased risk for obesity and heart disease.

Now that last statement wasn't from the study - that was my own prediction.

But really, the statistics don't lie - a study done at Johns Hopkins concluded that a child's weight increases with the number of hours they spend in front of the television each day.

Are you cringing yet? What parent hasn't popped in a DVD to occupy the kids for a few hours?

And what about your child's diet? How often do you find yourself in the drive thru line ordering another cheeseburger and fries?

Childhood obesity is now described as an epidemic. It puts your child's health at risk, and makes them more susceptible to problems involving their cardiovascular systems, endocrine systems, and even their mental health. Type 2 diabetes mellitus, depression, and low self-esteem are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the problems looming over the heads of overweight children.

I'm not telling you anything that you don't already know. It doesn't take a study done at Johns Hopkins to discover that kids today are putting on weight in ways that we never did - you just have to open your eyes to notice.

The 'why' is simple. It goes back to the basic equation for weight gain: energy in versus energy out. Kids eat too much and do too little.

But I have to ask... are you setting a good example by your eating habits? This may be a painful question to want to answer - but the truth sometimes hurts (and is good for us).

Maybe you've noticed that your child has begun to put on a little extra weight - what do you do about it? No matter what age your child is - weight is a sensitive issue.

What do your kids eat?

Think about your child's diet. Do they eat three balanced meals a day? Do they eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day? Are they limited in their servings of fried, processed, and sugary foods?

Maybe you aren't sure what your kids are eating. Do some investigation by observing and talking to them about what they eat.

Identify the foods your kids are eating that are rich in calories but lacking in nutritional value. Examples: candy, fast food, chips, cookies, soda pop, and pizza. Replace these foods with fresh nutrient dense foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats and low fat dairy.

How much activity do your kids get?

Computers, video games, and satellite T.V. are our children's latest and greatest toys. Who has time to play outside when you are about to beat the hardest level, or your favorite show is about to start? Our kids participate in less physical activity and are more sedentary than any generation before.

Do you know how much physical activity your kids get each day? Some parents may think that kids are getting an hour of P.E. each day, only to find out that the school has dropped its P.E. classes.

A great way to encourage activity is to limit the time your children spend on sedentary activities, such as T.V and video games. Sign your kids up on a local sports team so that they can run and be active with other kids. Take the whole family to the park on a weekend instead of gathering in front of the T.V.

Monkey see monkey do

This issue really boils down to one factor: Parental Example. Your kids watch what you do even when you wish they wouldn't, and this is certainly true when it comes to diet and exercise.

Do you model good eating habits, or do your kids see you indulge? Do you exercise regularly, or do your kids see you on the couch in front of the television all weekend?

As a parent, it is your unique responsibility to teach your children the habits that lead to good health. Since you know that obese children have a greater chance of remaining obese into adulthood, thus greatly increasing the likelihood of serious health problems, this isn't a responsibility that you take lightly.

If your eating habits and activity level have slipped it may be time for you to turn things around. It's never too late to set a positive example for your kids - the key is to act now.

Contact me today to get started on a program that will transform your body and renew your lifestyle. There's nothing better for motivation than dropping a few sizes!

Labels: fitness, Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

The 12 minutes Corporate Warrior Workout

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Physical exercise is the most important beneficial factor in maintaining the balanced dose of positive mental and physical energy that allows a corporate person to face any challenges while travelling. Here are some tips to help you stay energized throughout your days:

Be realistic

You probably won't be able to fit in your normal weekly workouts, and that's okay. Shoot for completing at least 50% of your normal regimen.

Plan ahead

Before leaving town, find out what type of workout facilities your accommodations will have or if there is a nearby park or jogging track (weather permitting, of course).

Scope out local gyms

If you are staying somewhere that doesn't provide a workout area, then inquire at nearby fitness centers for their rates. Often they offer day passes for minimal fees.

Pack a pair of light dumbbells or Tubing in your suitcase

The dumbbells or Tubing take up very little space, yet can provide you with an entire upper and lower body workout routine.

Be creative

Find unique, fun ways to exercise instead of doing the same routine you do when you are at home. Try biking, hiking, water-skiing, beach volleyball, etc. Effective workouts aren't limited to the standard walking, jogging and fitness machines.

Try out your travel routine at least once at home

A new workout that you've never done before will require more time and preparation. You can either hire a personal trainer to show you the routine once or twice, or buy a video DVD like the Total Body Work that I created and made available at the #1 Spa/Resort in the World, Miraval Life In Balance. Being prepared help you avoid any frustration and the temptation leading to use it as an excuse not to workout.

Prepare your snacks.

If your journey includes a lot of time in the in the plane or in the car, be sure to pack some healthy snacks so you aren't forced to eat at the fast food and convenience shops along the way. The key to success in maintaining a balanced energy level is to eat 5 to 6 small meals spaced every three hours, rather that 1 or 2 big ones.

Fool around in the pool

If lounging poolside is part of your vacation plans, then jump in the pool every 20 minutes for 5-10 minutes of pool walking or running.

Here is a quick, simple 12 minute circuit workout that only requires dumbbells or a resistance band and can be done anywhere. Complete at least one set of 12 to 20 reps of each exercise. Rest minimally between sets. This workout should not take you more than 12 minutes.

Push-up: 20 repetitions

Overhead Shoulder Press: 20 repetitions

Biceps Curls: 20 repetitions

Triceps Dips: 20 repetitions

Bend-Over Rows: 20 repetitions

Front Raises: 20 repetitions

Lunges: 20 repetitions

Calf Heel-raises: 20 repetitions

Hamstring dead lifts: 20 repetitions

Abdominal crunches: 20 repetitions

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

When Holiday Tips Fall Short

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Another day another article on Holiday weight loss tips. Have you ever wondered why everyone you know still gains weight this time of year - despite the fact that Holiday weight loss tips are passed around in greater numbers than Christmas cookies?

Don't get me wrong - weight loss tips are great. I love to find creative ways to cut calories and increase activity during the most fattening time of the year. In fact, here are 10 great tips that will prevent you from gaining weight over the holidays:

Limit your intake of calorie laden beverages. Eggnog, champagne, mochas, and hot chocolate all have one thing in common: they are packed with empty calories - avoid these beverages and load up on water instead.
Officially schedule exercise into your calendar. It's just too easy to let workouts slide this time of year - make a commitment to exercise and keep it.
Forego the goodie making. By keeping your home free from Holiday treats you will undoubtedly gain fewer pounds. However, if you simply have to make those Christmas cookies then chew gum during the baking process to prevent snacking.
Have fun being active. Winter is a great time to burn calories outdoors. Go skiing for a day or take the kids sledding. No snow in sight? No problem - take a brisk bike ride or power walk through the mall.
Use healthy ingredients. Your Holiday meal will taste even better when you seek out fresh, organic and low fat ingredients - and you'll feel better too.
Learn to compromise. Dying to have that peppermint mocha? Go ahead - but have it with nonfat milk and pass on the whipped cream.
Don't go hungry. The Holidays are a dangerous time for your metabolism. Focus on eating small balanced meals every few hours to keep your metabolism going strong.
Enjoy a sample. No one says you have to completely avoid the appetizers and desserts at your Holiday party - just enjoy in moderation.
Focus on family not food. Let's face it, this time of year is big on two things: family and food. Make an effort to place your focus primarily on your family.
Stick to your strategy. The best way to gain weight over the Holidays is to approach them without a plan. Using the above tips, write down the ways in which you plan to avoid weight gain this year - then periodically check up on yourself.

The truth is that if you follow these tips you will see a drop in Holiday pounds and you may even lose a pound or two...but don't expect to reshape your figure with them.

Let's be honest, you want to lose more than a pound or two. You want to lose all of those extra pounds while reshaping your body. Simply avoiding certain foods or burning a few extra calories won't produce the breathtaking results that you crave.

Here's the bottom line: To transform your body you must know what you trully desire and you must commit to that desire then and only then you can introduce new and challenging exercise to your routine.

You may feel that the secret to achieving weight loss is just that - a secret. A mystery. You try, and try, and try but your goals are never met. Your dream body continues to stay out of reach.

In my experience the people who are unable to lose weight aren't failing due to laziness. In fact, those frustrated with their weight often put in a lot of effort - but on the wrong things. They emphasis on the practical stuff, they never trully take the time to make the connection between their body and their mind in order to find what they trully desire.

You try a new fad diet. The latest exercise gizmo. An ineffective routine at the gym. It's not that you aren't willing to put in the effort - you're just doing the wrong thing...you're just thinking the wrong way.Think about this for a moment...

What if 2008 was the year that you took control of your body? The year that you threw your fat clothes away...the year that you were proud to put on a bathing suit…the year that your doctor congratulated you on your improved health...the year that your family and friends - and that special someone - showered you with compliments.

It's possible. Even more possible than you think.The thing is that you need to direct your effort in an effective way. It all comes back to introducing a new focus, an new approach, a new aspect on life and of course challenging exercises into your routine.

This is where I come in. You see, for me weight loss isn't a mystery. It's my passion. I have a proven method that will dramatically transform your body into one that you are proud to be seen in. However, I can't promise that it will be easy, I'm just saying IT WILL BE EASIER!

You'll work hard but it will be quick, you'll sweat and you'll even feel sore. And before you know it you will be telling everyone you know about the amazing results you've achieved.In this season of gift giving don't miss the opportunity to give yourself the gift that you really want – a new strong desire to be fit, a new body. A tight body. A stronger body. A healthier body.

Get a copy of my new book Mind Over Body: The Key To Lasting Weight Loss Is All In Your Head!

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Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation, mindful fitness

Holiday Eating Tips

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

It's that time of year again - holiday season! Here's something to look forward to: between Turkey day and the New Year the average person will gain between 7 and 10 pounds. The good news is that you can avoid these additional pounds with a little know how.

For most of us the holiday pounds start with Thanksgiving dinner. Did you know that the average person consumes around 3,500 calories on this day alone? Yikes. That equals one pound in extra calories - not to mention the leftovers you will be eating days afterward. Take these tips and make Thanksgiving a guilt free day this year:

Tip #1: Take 2 steps to start your day right.

Step One: Eat breakfast. You see, most people skip breakfast on Turkey day in order to 'save room' for the feast - maybe you have done this yourself. When you eat a healthy breakfast that is high in both fiber and protein two great things happen.

Your metabolism is started early in the day, thus catapulting you into full fledged calorie burning mode. This will come in handy later in the day.

You won't be famished when you sit down for dinner, so you will have less room to binge. (This means fewer calories land on your waist.)

Step Two: Exercise for 30-60 minutes. I know exercise is the last thing on your mind on a busy holiday, however it is worth your effort. You will negate some of the extra holiday calories and your metabolism will climb even higher.

Tip #2: Lighten the menu.

If you're in charge of the menu this year then you are in luck. As chef you can make a few modifications to the meal that will drastically reduce the fat and calorie intake of each guest. Do the following to lighten your feast:

Instead of cream-based dip for your veggie platter, use dip made from nonfat yogurt or nonfat sour cream.

Replace traditional stuffing with an assortment of chopped vegetables. Fill your turkey with mushrooms, eggplant, onions and celery. Or replace half of your traditional stuffing with chopped vegetables.

Flavor your mashed potatoes with roasted garlic instead of butter. Or serve baked sweet potatoes instead of butter laden mashed potatoes.

Roast vegetables without oil - use cooking spray instead and toss them with dill.

Use unsweetened apple sauce or pureed plums instead of butter or oil in dessert recipes.

Put out an assortment of fruit for dessert instead of pies.

Make the recipe for Low Fat Thanksgiving Green Bean Casserole below.

Tip #3: Use strategy.

Traditional Thanksgiving food items weren't all created equal - nutritionally that is. Roasted white turkey meat (without skin) is a great source of lean protein. Vegetable dishes (without added fats) are also very healthy.

On the other hand, buttery mashed potatoes, white bread rolls, cream based dishes, and heavy gravy are all packed with fat and calories.

Fill your stomach with the healthy items first - white turkey meat and plenty of vegetables. Then simply 'sample' the less healthy items in small portions. This simple strategy will save you tons of extra calories and it won't leave you feeling cheated.

Tip #4: Pace yourself.

Most people get into trouble at Thanksgiving dinner by eating full speed ahead until they finally realize that they are full (after their second and third helping). The trouble with this method is the lag time in communication between your stomach and brain.

You see, you may have satiated your hunger with the first helping, but it takes a little while for your stomach to communicate that message to your brain. And during that lag time you took the opportunity to your second and third plate of food.

This year sit calmly in your chair after that first plate and wait at least 20 minutes before getting seconds. You will be surprised to find that the thought of more food doesn't sound good anymore - and you will have saved yourself unnecessary weight gain.

Well, there you have it - four tips that will get you off to a fit and healthy holiday season.
Want to make this holiday season extra special? Join my online training program at http://www.fitnessprograms4life.com/ . Together we will keep the holiday pounds away.

Labels: Fitness Diet Inspiration Motivation

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