After the Game Plan event yesterday, I immediately planned a meeting with my team, and we had that meeting today. Currently, my team constists of my brother-in-law, who has done all of the programs I have done, and is super ripped!(although he couldn't make it today), my mom, my friend Brittney. They are my coaches, and additionally, my brother and father also attended, and we all went through the "get started right" guides and did some game planning. I won't get into detail here, but I'll tell you I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to attend the Game Plan event because it really set the tone for what our team will be able to accomplish this year. This is our year folks, and you, too can be part of it if you want to.
Listen up, because it's this simple: we plan to stick to our workout programs, nutrition plans, and take our appropriate necessary supplements. We also plan to promote health every day by doing this and also by talking to people, throwing health parties, and introduce more people to what we are doing. The great part is that we have a strong team, and we don't have to go it alone. In this way, we are blasting this year off right, and personally, my goal is to do what it takes to make Success Club, and be making 10k a month by this time next year. If I am doing this, you can rest assured I have helped countless people to get healthy and become coaches, and I have helped these people do the same and teach their people the same, and so on. This is a health revolution, and we want to really blow the obesity out of the windy city for good!
Tomorrow, I will consider day one for this year's Game Plan, and I am starting day 1 of P90X+, and I can't wait! Please keep an eye out for an announcement for events coming soon, and thanks for reading everyone!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
My Game Plan
I'm writing a bit late tonight, but with good reason. I attended a crucial event today called the Beachbody Game Plan Road Tour event, which, to my convenience was in Rosemont, about a 15 minute drive from the North Side of Chicago where my home is. My parents came as my only guests, which was fine with me, and we met some amazing people including Beachbody celebrities Larry Zimberg (the Game Plan Guru), Mark Briggs (one of the Beachbody O.G.'s...also in P90X+...badass!), Tommy Mygrant (the "join" button on the team beachbody homepage...dude is effen ripped!), and many others. I even met Arty from the success story team who recognized me from workin on my vids! Oh, I didn't forget about you Larry and Tiko from Indiana, James from N.J., Ron G., and of course Wanda Mae who recognized me and who listened in on the challenge call that I was a guest speaker for! You all and everyone else at this event really got me extra pumped up, and I thank you all and wish you the best of health and continued fortune with Beachbody, and I hope to see you all again soon!
The really awesome thing is that my mom became a coach today, and her and my dad have made a deeper commitment to their health. I really must tell you that more than any of my accomplishments, I am the most proud of being able to help them make positive changes in their health and in their lives. My mom has dropped 4 sizes so far with Slim In 6, and my dad has been training with a bike trainer (we're cyclists) but has also made a commitment to replace one meal a day with shakeology and he will start Power 90 soon and improve his health further. Folks, if you are reading this and you or your parents are a bit older like mine (66 and 72) and you have been watching all the 50 year-olds dying on the news and want to turn the crap-shoot into a sure winner, you need to get healthy and help them get healthy TODAY and keep the people you love around! This is not a joke. If you have kids, you want to be around for them, too, right? Holler at me and let's make this a reality. Over and over I mention this call to action because it is quite possibly the most important decision you can make. Let's turn this obesity thing around and get serious about health. Do it for yourself. If you could give a crap about yourself, then do it for people who love you. If you think no one cares about you, that's a load of crap because I sure care about you even though we may have never met, and if you change your life, odds are inadvertently you will change the lives of others. Isn't that worth it? Yes it is. So chew on that for a day or two, and call me when you're ready to become the person you've always wanted to be and live the life you've always dreamed of. Thanks for reading, everyone, and enjoy the rest of your weekend!
The really awesome thing is that my mom became a coach today, and her and my dad have made a deeper commitment to their health. I really must tell you that more than any of my accomplishments, I am the most proud of being able to help them make positive changes in their health and in their lives. My mom has dropped 4 sizes so far with Slim In 6, and my dad has been training with a bike trainer (we're cyclists) but has also made a commitment to replace one meal a day with shakeology and he will start Power 90 soon and improve his health further. Folks, if you are reading this and you or your parents are a bit older like mine (66 and 72) and you have been watching all the 50 year-olds dying on the news and want to turn the crap-shoot into a sure winner, you need to get healthy and help them get healthy TODAY and keep the people you love around! This is not a joke. If you have kids, you want to be around for them, too, right? Holler at me and let's make this a reality. Over and over I mention this call to action because it is quite possibly the most important decision you can make. Let's turn this obesity thing around and get serious about health. Do it for yourself. If you could give a crap about yourself, then do it for people who love you. If you think no one cares about you, that's a load of crap because I sure care about you even though we may have never met, and if you change your life, odds are inadvertently you will change the lives of others. Isn't that worth it? Yes it is. So chew on that for a day or two, and call me when you're ready to become the person you've always wanted to be and live the life you've always dreamed of. Thanks for reading, everyone, and enjoy the rest of your weekend!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Embrace Change
I'm so glad I took today off. After a hectic work schedule and getting pumped as the guest speaker for the call last night, I definitely needed to rest up today, and now I am getting ready for the Game Plan Road Tour event tomorrow! My parents and hopefully a few other guests I have invited will show up, and I'm sure we will meet some amazing people and learn some awesome things about coaching that will really kick off this year right. I have just started to add a few coaches to my team, and together, we can really blast off in this health revolution and hopefully make a few dollars at the same time!
This is more of me getting some of my racing thoughts out than a message today, so thanks for reading anyways, but I will leave you with this: earlier this week, a good friend and actually, a great childhood friend of my wife that has become one of my good friends, Curtis, saw me on facebook and we chatted for a while. Curtis has been doing P90X, and I know he's gettin ripped up for sure! He, like Jasmine (my wife), is a nurse, and hats off to what they go through on a daily basis because it really takes a lot mentally and emotionally. Anyway, we went back and forth for a few minutes about P90X and health, etc. and he finally said, "Boy you have really changed..." Now, to me inside my head, I am the same person, but the statement really made me realize how different I really am from even about mid-year of 2008 before the flood. I started listening to myself and the things I was saying, thinking, and doing over the last few days and, in retrospect, he's damn right. I'm completely different. In a good way, of course. Actually, I choose to think of it as being the best version of myself, not a different person, although that may be one and the same, depending on how you look at it. Either way, I embrace the change that has happened and I encourage you to realize the choices you are making can and will change you, the way you look at life and health, and the way you respond to the people and challenges in your life. Don't be afraid of these because you are not a different person, you are a better person. Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great weekend!
This is more of me getting some of my racing thoughts out than a message today, so thanks for reading anyways, but I will leave you with this: earlier this week, a good friend and actually, a great childhood friend of my wife that has become one of my good friends, Curtis, saw me on facebook and we chatted for a while. Curtis has been doing P90X, and I know he's gettin ripped up for sure! He, like Jasmine (my wife), is a nurse, and hats off to what they go through on a daily basis because it really takes a lot mentally and emotionally. Anyway, we went back and forth for a few minutes about P90X and health, etc. and he finally said, "Boy you have really changed..." Now, to me inside my head, I am the same person, but the statement really made me realize how different I really am from even about mid-year of 2008 before the flood. I started listening to myself and the things I was saying, thinking, and doing over the last few days and, in retrospect, he's damn right. I'm completely different. In a good way, of course. Actually, I choose to think of it as being the best version of myself, not a different person, although that may be one and the same, depending on how you look at it. Either way, I embrace the change that has happened and I encourage you to realize the choices you are making can and will change you, the way you look at life and health, and the way you respond to the people and challenges in your life. Don't be afraid of these because you are not a different person, you are a better person. Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great weekend!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Challenge Response
Okay, I'm keepin' it short today. If you listened in to the call tonight, thanks so much! I was just a guest speaker for a challenge call where I addressed myself and what I have been through, addiction, and mindset among other topics. It went very well, and look for a posting soon to be able to listen in to the recording. I want to just say thanks so much to Jen Mangum for having me on, and thanks to everyone else for tuning in, and special thanks to Maurice for chiming in and making a comment. You guys are all awesome and you keep me going even when I don't want to push harder myself. Let's do great things this year and live healthier as a team! Nothing is impossible, and remember that baby steps are still steps forward. KEEP PRESSING PLAY!!
Mike Nickles
Mike Nickles
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Q & A
One of my new Beachbody buddies, Nessa, is just starting out on her journey toward better health, and she asked me some questions. These are probably questions many of us have, and I thought I'd address them in a blog this morning.
1. How do I get more energy? Well, initially, you have to look at where you're at. If you are someone with this question, it is most likely that your diet lacks the nutrition your body needs, and your activity level is low. Also, your sleep and rest have much do do with this as does your level of stress. However, integrating a moderate fitness program into your life while focusing on making small, better choices with your eating habits will surely help you to regain some of your lost energy. It's a wonder what a little movement and vitamin-packed foods can do for you. So don't focus on why you don't have energy so much; just know that it will come back to you soon.
2. Do I work out before I eat? Your eating definitely has a lot do do with your recovery, and scheduling both will help a ton. If your goal is to lose weight, then plan to work out 2-3 hours after eating so that your body will go into fat-burning mode. After your workout, consume an appropriate, healthy meal such as a fresh salad with greens, beans, and other vegetables along with a slice of whole-grain bread. That's just one example, but you should get the idea. Check out my recipe blog for a few salad ideas. If you plan to work out before breakfast, it's not necessarily bad, but keep this workout short and eat breakfast right after. Remember, you've been fasting all night, so you don't want to hit a wall in your workout nor do you want to be so hungry you binge. Also, if you have breakfast to start, your body can get burning again and then you will find you will be able to push a bit harder during your workout. My advice is to try different things, and when you find a routine you can stick with, stay on that schedule so your body gets used to doing activity around that time. Not only will you expect to workout at that time, but you will learn to eat at certain times and you will perform better overall. You definitely want to take in some carbs to refuel the energy in your muscles, but you also need some proteins for building and some good old-fashioned nutrients and vitamins straight from the source. If you are already and endurance athlete and are working out hard, I suggest an after-workout drink such as the P90X Results and Recovery formula. I use this, and for lunch I make a protein smoothie with soy milk, premium protein powder, cocoa powder, pumpkin, banana, almonds, and some ice to chill it, and it's around 450 calories.
3.What do I buy at the store? Wow. Well, if you're not used to eating right, this could seem daunting. What you should do is take baby steps. Move forward, but you'll have to learn to crawl before you can walk, know what I mean? For example, if you currently drink 2% milk, maybe go down to 1%, then skim. If you can go all the way first, great. It's a small change, but you will find that small steps lead to big advancements. Here are some other substitutions:
Not-So-Healthy Healthy Alternative
-------------------------
Butter Brummel & Brown
Vegetable Oil Olive Oil
Chips Baked Chips
Eggs Egg Beaters
Bread 100% Whole Grain Bread
Pasta Whole Grain Pasta
Further, think about how to make some of the unhealthy things you cook healthier. Take pizza, for example. You may order out or buy frozen pizza. Instead, try using whole grain Flatout wraps or whole wheat tortillas for the crust, use a marinara sauce, a little mozzerella, and fresh veggies such as green peppers, jalapenos, chicken sausage, etc. Bake these on a stone in the oven at 500 degrees for 5-8 minutes and you have crisp thin-crust pizza that is delicious.When you control your ingredients in anything you cook, you know that it will be fresher and healthier, and probably taste better, too. If you think you have no time, choose a day in your week and make 3-5 meals that you can refrigerate and/or freeze, and then just microwave these as needed for your family throughout your busy week. essentially, you are making your own tv dinners that are fresher and tastier.
4. How do I read the labels? Great question. Well, knowing what everything means is the hard part, but you should know what your average meal looks like, and when you do, you will know what to look for in calories per serving, fat/saturated fat, carbs, and sodium. Here's a tip here--measure the exact servings when you are consuming the products so you know you're not overdoing it, and also--the fewer the ingredients and more natural they appear to be, the better. Just a good basic rule of thumb for the most part. Here's a site where you can set up a free account and start tracking what you are eating to get a better idea of where you are at and eat toward your goals: www.myfitnesspal.com.
5. How do I get a coach? I'm so glad you asked this question, Nessa! Well, you currently have a free, but limited membership at beachbody. That said, I'll help you as a coach unofficially for now, but you should really consider becoming a club member. It's only 3 bucks a week, billed quarterly, and when you sign up by clicking on the join/upgrade tab, you can put my name or coach #27629 in where it asks you, and it'll say "mikenickles" will be your coach. Then I'll be your coach and you'll be on my team!! We will be hooked up directly, and in addition, you will get 10% off of products and have access to recipes and nutrition tools as well as many other perks and benefits. I am a club member, and I highly suggest that you become one. All you have to lose is pounds and inches!
Hope these help you, Nessa, and I hope that this Q&A session helps more of you out there. Please comment below and/or feel free to contact me by clicking on the title to this blog. Thanks for reading, everyone, and have a great day!
1. How do I get more energy? Well, initially, you have to look at where you're at. If you are someone with this question, it is most likely that your diet lacks the nutrition your body needs, and your activity level is low. Also, your sleep and rest have much do do with this as does your level of stress. However, integrating a moderate fitness program into your life while focusing on making small, better choices with your eating habits will surely help you to regain some of your lost energy. It's a wonder what a little movement and vitamin-packed foods can do for you. So don't focus on why you don't have energy so much; just know that it will come back to you soon.
2. Do I work out before I eat? Your eating definitely has a lot do do with your recovery, and scheduling both will help a ton. If your goal is to lose weight, then plan to work out 2-3 hours after eating so that your body will go into fat-burning mode. After your workout, consume an appropriate, healthy meal such as a fresh salad with greens, beans, and other vegetables along with a slice of whole-grain bread. That's just one example, but you should get the idea. Check out my recipe blog for a few salad ideas. If you plan to work out before breakfast, it's not necessarily bad, but keep this workout short and eat breakfast right after. Remember, you've been fasting all night, so you don't want to hit a wall in your workout nor do you want to be so hungry you binge. Also, if you have breakfast to start, your body can get burning again and then you will find you will be able to push a bit harder during your workout. My advice is to try different things, and when you find a routine you can stick with, stay on that schedule so your body gets used to doing activity around that time. Not only will you expect to workout at that time, but you will learn to eat at certain times and you will perform better overall. You definitely want to take in some carbs to refuel the energy in your muscles, but you also need some proteins for building and some good old-fashioned nutrients and vitamins straight from the source. If you are already and endurance athlete and are working out hard, I suggest an after-workout drink such as the P90X Results and Recovery formula. I use this, and for lunch I make a protein smoothie with soy milk, premium protein powder, cocoa powder, pumpkin, banana, almonds, and some ice to chill it, and it's around 450 calories.
3.What do I buy at the store? Wow. Well, if you're not used to eating right, this could seem daunting. What you should do is take baby steps. Move forward, but you'll have to learn to crawl before you can walk, know what I mean? For example, if you currently drink 2% milk, maybe go down to 1%, then skim. If you can go all the way first, great. It's a small change, but you will find that small steps lead to big advancements. Here are some other substitutions:
Not-So-Healthy Healthy Alternative
-------------------------
Butter Brummel & Brown
Vegetable Oil Olive Oil
Chips Baked Chips
Eggs Egg Beaters
Bread 100% Whole Grain Bread
Pasta Whole Grain Pasta
Further, think about how to make some of the unhealthy things you cook healthier. Take pizza, for example. You may order out or buy frozen pizza. Instead, try using whole grain Flatout wraps or whole wheat tortillas for the crust, use a marinara sauce, a little mozzerella, and fresh veggies such as green peppers, jalapenos, chicken sausage, etc. Bake these on a stone in the oven at 500 degrees for 5-8 minutes and you have crisp thin-crust pizza that is delicious.When you control your ingredients in anything you cook, you know that it will be fresher and healthier, and probably taste better, too. If you think you have no time, choose a day in your week and make 3-5 meals that you can refrigerate and/or freeze, and then just microwave these as needed for your family throughout your busy week. essentially, you are making your own tv dinners that are fresher and tastier.
4. How do I read the labels? Great question. Well, knowing what everything means is the hard part, but you should know what your average meal looks like, and when you do, you will know what to look for in calories per serving, fat/saturated fat, carbs, and sodium. Here's a tip here--measure the exact servings when you are consuming the products so you know you're not overdoing it, and also--the fewer the ingredients and more natural they appear to be, the better. Just a good basic rule of thumb for the most part. Here's a site where you can set up a free account and start tracking what you are eating to get a better idea of where you are at and eat toward your goals: www.myfitnesspal.com.
5. How do I get a coach? I'm so glad you asked this question, Nessa! Well, you currently have a free, but limited membership at beachbody. That said, I'll help you as a coach unofficially for now, but you should really consider becoming a club member. It's only 3 bucks a week, billed quarterly, and when you sign up by clicking on the join/upgrade tab, you can put my name or coach #27629 in where it asks you, and it'll say "mikenickles" will be your coach. Then I'll be your coach and you'll be on my team!! We will be hooked up directly, and in addition, you will get 10% off of products and have access to recipes and nutrition tools as well as many other perks and benefits. I am a club member, and I highly suggest that you become one. All you have to lose is pounds and inches!
Hope these help you, Nessa, and I hope that this Q&A session helps more of you out there. Please comment below and/or feel free to contact me by clicking on the title to this blog. Thanks for reading, everyone, and have a great day!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Where The Puck
Wow. I just want to say how much I appreciate the online support that Beachbody has to offer. Not only are we able to find buddies on here that are in various stages of their personal development with fitness, health, and life, but we are able to forge relationships that grow over time, and I feel like there really is a revolution in health. Many people have reached out to me for different reasons, and I thank you all because you really help me in ways you may not know or understand. I am still developing myself as an athlete, a coach, and a human being with a family and future, and all of the questions, feedback, and positive reinforcement really fuels me personally as I know it does you. I have to cut this short because I'm running low on time before work, (and I can't wait until my coach income surpasses my job income so I don't have to limit myself on time), but I'll leave you with this:
"...Don't go where the puck was; go where the puck is going to be..." - Walter Gretske
That is a quote told to me by a friend, but the individual, Walter Gretske, who said this was referring to a lesson he once gave his son, Wayne Gretske, the hockey legend. We can all use this quote as a metaphor for our own personal journey in health, fitness, careers, family, and overall in our lives. Please comment if you'd like to share...where will the puck lead you? Thanks for reading, everyone, and have a great day.
"...Don't go where the puck was; go where the puck is going to be..." - Walter Gretske
That is a quote told to me by a friend, but the individual, Walter Gretske, who said this was referring to a lesson he once gave his son, Wayne Gretske, the hockey legend. We can all use this quote as a metaphor for our own personal journey in health, fitness, careers, family, and overall in our lives. Please comment if you'd like to share...where will the puck lead you? Thanks for reading, everyone, and have a great day.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Feed Your Cold!
Hey guys...yesterday through last night I began experiencing cold symptoms. Sucks, but ah well. Fortunately, I recently read some tips on menshealth.com for helping your cold leave quickly so you can get on with your life! Here are some, and get the info I got by clicking the title to this blog.
1. Eat a 1200 calorie breakfast. Apparently, eating big and early can help raise your levels of gamma interferon, a natural antiviral agent, by 450%. I have to admit, I was apprehensive since this is about 3 times the calories I normally eat, and I'm trying to stay lean, but in addition to my morning smoothie, I had a warm bowl of granola cereal which has granola, almonds, and raisins. I added a scoop of protein powder and some dried cranberries, and I think I hit this calorie count.
2. Stress out your symptoms. The article says that short-term stress can raise a level of an immune system protein, which could help. For me, I will aim to study harder today for my personal training test and hopefully that will help. Lord knows, though, I have plenty of stress trying to keep these bills paid and food on the table!
3. Drink Green Tea. Yay! I love green tea and already drink it every day. I'll look to raise the amount of cups today and tomorrow. The chemical, EGCG, found at the highest level in green tea, can stop some types of cold viruses from replicating.
4. Rest it out. This means getting a straight 7-8 hours of sleep. This is my hardest obstacle, but I will do my best, and I'm going to a new schedule next week, and I think I've got it worked out there.
5. Exercise. Fit people have less respiratory infections and better immune systems; this is obvious. So I will keep up what I am doing, but for me, this week is a lighter, recovery week anyways, but I'll still fit in some good workouts throughout the week.
Again, these are the abridged versions of the tips from the article, and I put my 2 cents in so you can see what I am doing. This cold should disappear by Wed for sure. Hopefully you don't get sick, but if you do, try some of this stuff. Thanks for reading, and have a great day!
1. Eat a 1200 calorie breakfast. Apparently, eating big and early can help raise your levels of gamma interferon, a natural antiviral agent, by 450%. I have to admit, I was apprehensive since this is about 3 times the calories I normally eat, and I'm trying to stay lean, but in addition to my morning smoothie, I had a warm bowl of granola cereal which has granola, almonds, and raisins. I added a scoop of protein powder and some dried cranberries, and I think I hit this calorie count.
2. Stress out your symptoms. The article says that short-term stress can raise a level of an immune system protein, which could help. For me, I will aim to study harder today for my personal training test and hopefully that will help. Lord knows, though, I have plenty of stress trying to keep these bills paid and food on the table!
3. Drink Green Tea. Yay! I love green tea and already drink it every day. I'll look to raise the amount of cups today and tomorrow. The chemical, EGCG, found at the highest level in green tea, can stop some types of cold viruses from replicating.
4. Rest it out. This means getting a straight 7-8 hours of sleep. This is my hardest obstacle, but I will do my best, and I'm going to a new schedule next week, and I think I've got it worked out there.
5. Exercise. Fit people have less respiratory infections and better immune systems; this is obvious. So I will keep up what I am doing, but for me, this week is a lighter, recovery week anyways, but I'll still fit in some good workouts throughout the week.
Again, these are the abridged versions of the tips from the article, and I put my 2 cents in so you can see what I am doing. This cold should disappear by Wed for sure. Hopefully you don't get sick, but if you do, try some of this stuff. Thanks for reading, and have a great day!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Stay Focused
Yesterday, I attended a birthday party for Thomas, one of my good friends and co-workers. He just turned 23, and this will be his last birthday as a civilian for a while at least. Thomas has joined the army, and though he has not been officially enlisted and hauled off to boot camp, he has made the decision to join to better the lives of himself and his wife, Lala. I knew this party was important to him, and because of that, it was important to me to show up and celebrate with him. One difficult thing I had to deal with was that I was faced with a situation where drinking was definitely part of the festivities, however, I have made a commitment to join my wife in abstaining from drinking alcohol until her birthday on February 18th, which she had made a goal for health reasons. I thought about the possibilities, even considering drinking for the occasion, which my wife supported, saying, "You can drink...I just won't go." She didn't go, but I decided to stick with my commitment. I ended up buying a case of Coors Light as a party gift for those attending, and for myself I decided to drink Miller Sharp's, a non-alcoholic beer alternative. So I had my solution: I still drank beer at the party and had fun with friends, I just didn't get drunk. In doing so I maintained my commitment to my wife, had fun with Thomas at the party, and I was confident in my drive home as well. It was easier than I thought it would be.
Since I was focused on my goal and by the commitment I made to others, my obstacle seemed like a slight bump in the road rather than a hurdle, and I easily stepped over it. This is the same focus I used when accomplishing my initial goal of sticking with P90X--I focused on my health as my ultimate goal, so sticking with my program was essentially simple. May you keep in mind your ultimate goals and your "why" for doing so, and you will find your obstacles seemingly less challenging and you should be able to stick with it and succeed. Please contact me with your questions and/or obstacles and we can overcome them together. Thanks for reading, everyone, and enjoy the rest of your weekend.
Since I was focused on my goal and by the commitment I made to others, my obstacle seemed like a slight bump in the road rather than a hurdle, and I easily stepped over it. This is the same focus I used when accomplishing my initial goal of sticking with P90X--I focused on my health as my ultimate goal, so sticking with my program was essentially simple. May you keep in mind your ultimate goals and your "why" for doing so, and you will find your obstacles seemingly less challenging and you should be able to stick with it and succeed. Please contact me with your questions and/or obstacles and we can overcome them together. Thanks for reading, everyone, and enjoy the rest of your weekend.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Wow Mom
While I was at Home Depot today, my mom called me. She was excited and exclaimed, "...I had to call you!" She had been shopping for some new pants for her "retiree job" (I know it's an oxymoron) of Teacher's Aide at a middle school in Bolingbrook where her and my dad live. She had previously worn size 16 pants, but over the past several weeks, she has been eating better and regularly working out with the awesome home fitness program "Slim In 6". She told me she wanted to try on some smaller sizes to see where she was at, and that she now fits in to a SIZE 12! I congratulated her on this huge accomplishment. She is now down to 155 lbs and her first goal is to reach 140, which she will no doubt be able to do. Everyone, I want to tell you that my mom is 66 years old, and she has always been an awesome and inspiring individual, and to witness results like this is nothing to sneeze at.
Further, earlier this week she told me about some of her friends at work, and how she's been telling them about what she has been doing, about me and my accomplishments, and that I am her coach and have been helping her out, etc. One of her friends came into work one morning and told my mom she had worked out that day because my mom had inspired her! I immediately told my mom she had no choice--she will be a coach on my team with Beachbody. Folks, you don't need to be an expert. You don't need to be a trainer. You don't even need to be extremely fit yourself. All you need to do is to want to live better and make some changes in your own lives, and naturally when you feel great, your energy and results will inspire others to believe in themselves, and it is because of this that we all can succeed together. Mom, you always tell me that you love me and that you are proud of me; well I just want to remind you that I love you so much and am so proud of you! Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great weekend...and remember...
Further, earlier this week she told me about some of her friends at work, and how she's been telling them about what she has been doing, about me and my accomplishments, and that I am her coach and have been helping her out, etc. One of her friends came into work one morning and told my mom she had worked out that day because my mom had inspired her! I immediately told my mom she had no choice--she will be a coach on my team with Beachbody. Folks, you don't need to be an expert. You don't need to be a trainer. You don't even need to be extremely fit yourself. All you need to do is to want to live better and make some changes in your own lives, and naturally when you feel great, your energy and results will inspire others to believe in themselves, and it is because of this that we all can succeed together. Mom, you always tell me that you love me and that you are proud of me; well I just want to remind you that I love you so much and am so proud of you! Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great weekend...and remember...
"What's 'WOW' upside down?...MOM!!" -Tony Horton
Friday, January 22, 2010
Kids These Days
Over the past few months, I've been working with some of my co-workers on their health and fitness, including working with them to overcome the obstacles in their lives to help them reach their goals. Recently, my buddy Luis has been integrating a home fitness video I gave him to get him going, and he also directed his girlfriend toward me so I could coach her as well. Yesterday, he told me how both of them had planned to workout together, but that his girlfriend's mom had some issues with her going to Luis's house. These kids are out of high-school but not 21, and furthermore it would seem that Luis's girlfriend's parents are very protective and conservative. Bummed but not totally discouraged, Luis planned to workout by himself when he got a phone call from his girl. She told him that she told her mom she was going to the library to study, and she told Luis she would use that white lie to excuse her from her home to go to his house as planned. They ended up working out together, and they felt a sense of accomplishment, not to mention the natural feeling of wellness after a great physical challenge.
When he told me this story, I was pleasantly surprised. Looking back to when I was 19 and 20 years old, I would sometimes lie to get out of the house to smoke a cigarette or to do other things I knew my parents wouldn't approve of (sorry mom!), but I definitely would not ever think that I would hear a tale like this one. This is a testament to what your mindset can do for you. Maybe you don't have to lie to get to the gym or work out, but certainly we can all learn from this. Next time you think of all the responsibilities and/or obstacles that seem to be keeping you from getting in your fitness routine for the day, think about this story and then think of a solution for yourself. Let's leave all of our excuses at the door, people, and make it happen. If you have to run errands all day and can only get a short workout in late, do it! If you have to miss your favorite show or decline an invitation to go out drinking so you can get enough sleep and get your workout for the next day in early, do it! Make the decision to put your health first and prioritize your nutrition and fitness before your hobbies and non-essential social events. Your health is worth it! Thanks for reading everyone, and Happy Friday!
When he told me this story, I was pleasantly surprised. Looking back to when I was 19 and 20 years old, I would sometimes lie to get out of the house to smoke a cigarette or to do other things I knew my parents wouldn't approve of (sorry mom!), but I definitely would not ever think that I would hear a tale like this one. This is a testament to what your mindset can do for you. Maybe you don't have to lie to get to the gym or work out, but certainly we can all learn from this. Next time you think of all the responsibilities and/or obstacles that seem to be keeping you from getting in your fitness routine for the day, think about this story and then think of a solution for yourself. Let's leave all of our excuses at the door, people, and make it happen. If you have to run errands all day and can only get a short workout in late, do it! If you have to miss your favorite show or decline an invitation to go out drinking so you can get enough sleep and get your workout for the next day in early, do it! Make the decision to put your health first and prioritize your nutrition and fitness before your hobbies and non-essential social events. Your health is worth it! Thanks for reading everyone, and Happy Friday!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Modify
Yesterday, my mom sent me some questions pertaining to her "Slim In 6" fitness program. I figured some of you may have similar questions and/or issues with your fitness routines, so here's a chance to get some modification ideas. Here are the questions, and I have bolded my feedback beneath each one.
1) When I use the stretchy band and try to do the full arm extensions, its hard so, when I cant do it by one arm, I use both hands/arms to do the arm extensions.
(She is referring to the 2-handle resistance band used with this and other systems, and I believe the lift is a shoulder press style lift here) Don't attempt one-arm lifts with two arms. If the band is too much, downgrade to a smaller band or smaller dumbbells. One to two pound weights are very inexpensive, and these will work well. Otherwise, try using soup or pop cans. You may not even need weight, but if you do, try those suggestions. Remember, don't sacrifice form or do a lift incorrectly because of weight. Sometimes I find myself in this situation, especially at the end of a workout or to get in the last few reps. Just remember-if you are injured, you can't work out at all!
2) when I am on the floor doing the push ups and leg lifts, my knees does not handle it very well, so I still push it but I use a cushion under my knees so it does not get in the floor.
Good call here. Even if you have carpet, your floor may seem hard. Using a fitness mat will usually help keep the strain off your knees, and certainly, using a cushion is fine as long as it doesn't keep you from doing the lift/workout properly.
3) Its very difficult to do the downward dog under the yoga, so I use a small chair to put my hands on instead of on the floor. Its very shaky when I do the exalted warrior and so on.
Yoga is very difficult, and especially considering your flexibility level, the moves and poses may seem impossible at times. Once again, this is a great way to modify, as long as you are getting a good stretch in. Just always remember to breathe deeply to oxygenate the muscles, and when you are ready to modify less or do the pose as presented, you will know. I applaud your efforts when many people would quit or give up.
Hopefully these questions and solutions may help you by giving you ideas on how to modify your routine, whether it be in the gym or at home. Keep challenging yourself, and if you are struggling with a certain lift, move, or pose, modify it to make it work for you, and you are sure to get the results you want. Feel free to comment below or click on the title to this blog to connect to my coach page and contact me with any questions you have. Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great day!
1) When I use the stretchy band and try to do the full arm extensions, its hard so, when I cant do it by one arm, I use both hands/arms to do the arm extensions.
(She is referring to the 2-handle resistance band used with this and other systems, and I believe the lift is a shoulder press style lift here) Don't attempt one-arm lifts with two arms. If the band is too much, downgrade to a smaller band or smaller dumbbells. One to two pound weights are very inexpensive, and these will work well. Otherwise, try using soup or pop cans. You may not even need weight, but if you do, try those suggestions. Remember, don't sacrifice form or do a lift incorrectly because of weight. Sometimes I find myself in this situation, especially at the end of a workout or to get in the last few reps. Just remember-if you are injured, you can't work out at all!
2) when I am on the floor doing the push ups and leg lifts, my knees does not handle it very well, so I still push it but I use a cushion under my knees so it does not get in the floor.
Good call here. Even if you have carpet, your floor may seem hard. Using a fitness mat will usually help keep the strain off your knees, and certainly, using a cushion is fine as long as it doesn't keep you from doing the lift/workout properly.
3) Its very difficult to do the downward dog under the yoga, so I use a small chair to put my hands on instead of on the floor. Its very shaky when I do the exalted warrior and so on.
Yoga is very difficult, and especially considering your flexibility level, the moves and poses may seem impossible at times. Once again, this is a great way to modify, as long as you are getting a good stretch in. Just always remember to breathe deeply to oxygenate the muscles, and when you are ready to modify less or do the pose as presented, you will know. I applaud your efforts when many people would quit or give up.
Hopefully these questions and solutions may help you by giving you ideas on how to modify your routine, whether it be in the gym or at home. Keep challenging yourself, and if you are struggling with a certain lift, move, or pose, modify it to make it work for you, and you are sure to get the results you want. Feel free to comment below or click on the title to this blog to connect to my coach page and contact me with any questions you have. Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great day!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Four To One
No, I'm not talking about the odds against the Bears getting to the playoffs next season. Actually, I'm talking about the ratio of carbs to protein that is crucial for muscle rebuilding and increasing endurance. Apparently, researchers at the University of Texas found that consuming a sports drink with added protein allowed participants to cycle for a longer period of time than when using only the sports drink. Also, after your workout, this crucial combo also helps to rebuild your muscles while helping to replace the glycogen (the energy stored in your muscles that has been depleted) stores in your muscles from the carbohydrates.
Many of you know that I got my results and continue to progress in fitness primarily by following the P90X system. So it should come as no surprise that the good folks at Beachbody have designed a supplement for during and post-workout called the "P90X Results and Recovery Formula". This delicious, smooth-orange flavored powder utilizes the exact principle of delivering the 4:1 ratio of carbs to protein along with an elite blend of antioxidants, electrolytes, other vitamins, and some creatine to help your body recover faster and to optimize performance and results. I haven't skipped a day of this stuff in over a year, and my results certainly speak for themselves. I use this blend after my workouts, and during I usually use G2, (low-calorie Gatorade). I have experimented during my workout by putting a small scoop of protein (equalling about 7 grams of protein) to the G2 and this has helped during my extreme workouts. If money was no object, I would just use the P90X formula, though, because it is much more complete. You can learn more about this drink, the P90X system, my story, and other home fitness products by clicking on the title to this link which will take you to my official coach page. Please contact me with any questions. Thanks for reading, everyone!
Many of you know that I got my results and continue to progress in fitness primarily by following the P90X system. So it should come as no surprise that the good folks at Beachbody have designed a supplement for during and post-workout called the "P90X Results and Recovery Formula". This delicious, smooth-orange flavored powder utilizes the exact principle of delivering the 4:1 ratio of carbs to protein along with an elite blend of antioxidants, electrolytes, other vitamins, and some creatine to help your body recover faster and to optimize performance and results. I haven't skipped a day of this stuff in over a year, and my results certainly speak for themselves. I use this blend after my workouts, and during I usually use G2, (low-calorie Gatorade). I have experimented during my workout by putting a small scoop of protein (equalling about 7 grams of protein) to the G2 and this has helped during my extreme workouts. If money was no object, I would just use the P90X formula, though, because it is much more complete. You can learn more about this drink, the P90X system, my story, and other home fitness products by clicking on the title to this link which will take you to my official coach page. Please contact me with any questions. Thanks for reading, everyone!
Dress For The Job You Want
I'm late on the blog today, so I apologize, but I want to mention something briefly. Yesterday, my buddy Luis was telling me how his girlfriend got a new haircut and totally changed her style. He said she had been working toward a new job role, and that it was the whole "dress for the job you want, not for the job you have" mentality, and I thought this was very relevant for many situations. Working for a restaurant in a high-end health club, I often notice trainers and members who are in great shape eating very healthily, and they definitely look the part. On the other hand, there are people that work out regularly that I see, and if you saw them in the street, you would never guess they ever stepped one foot inside of a gym. How can this be? Perhaps they are wondering the same thing, but I think I have an idea of what's going on. They are not "dressing the part" so to speak. People who aren't getting results or are hitting physical plateaus may have one of a few issues. One is that they are complacent in their workouts, and they don't change up their routines and/or they only do what they are comfortable doing, which will not yield results over time. However, the more likely scenario is that they eat way too many calories, even if they might eat generally more healthily than many people. I am always saying, "If you want to look like an athlete, you must eat like an athlete." I could not phrase it much better than this, and it's true. People that eat burgers and fries and drink pop all day will most likely pack on more fat than people who drink water and eat foods high in whole grains and vegetables and keep their saturated fats down. Just makes sense, really. So if you want to be an athlete, don't waste your hard work in the gym by feeding your body garbage. Would you put cheap gas in a Ferrari? Think about it, and check out how you're doing by setting up a free profile on http://www.myfitnesspal.com. Here you will be able to find out if your diet is appropriate for your goals. Feel free to contact me by clicking on the title to this blog and visiting my coach page, and I can help you find a home fitness program that will challenge you and help you achieve the results you aren't getting in the gym. Thanks for reading, everyone!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Staggering
Yesterday during my errands and waiting for Lola(my dog) to get finished grooming, I made a stop into GNC. I was initially just browsing, but then I got curious and asked about pre-workout supplements, namely nitric oxide boosters. I have been eating a few pickled beets before some workouts, and I'm not sure if this really helped, but the nitrates in beets can help boost your nitric oxide levels and deliver more oxygen to your muscles and get the blood pumping through your veins. I mentioned this, and actually, this guy told me that it does help to drink a glass of beet juice per day, but for pre-workouts, he recommended some products. I decided to go with his recommendation of "Muscleprime", a supplement designed to increase your energy, boost your nitric oxide levels, and help you get more work done in your workouts. In addition to my purchase, he gave me a copy of "Musle & Body" magazine, a GNC in-house publication loaded with ads but definitely featuring some good articles.
I read some of this magazine last night, and an article about staggered cardio caught my eye. Currently, I have been experimenting with pre and post workout exhaustion techniques, and I do this by combining P90X workouts with Insanity workouts, so I benefit from extreme strength and muscle endurance routines combined with MAX Interval cardio training. The article advised that instead of running for a half hour to an hour at a slow and steady pace, you should run (or do other cardio)for 10 minutes at 80-90% of your max hr, then do 20 minutes of strength training, then 10 more minutes of intense cardio, another 20 minutes of strength training, and finish up with 10 minutes of intense cardio. This was intriguing because I hadn't tried this, so I decided to customize my routine by flip-flopping back and forth with the Insanity 10-minute warmup which got my hr up, stretched out, did half of the P90X Chest, Shoulders, and Triceps workout, a 10-minute interval circuit, the last half of the P90X workout, and I finished up with the final 10-minute interval of the Insanity Strentgth and Resistance workout, stretched it out, and I was done. Wow, it was awesome! Apparently, working out this way will help you burn more calories from fat than a single, long cardio workout will. I definitely suggest this if you are ready to take your fitness to the next level, and please click on the title of this blog to go to my coach page and contact me if you want to hear more about this technique and/or home fitness programs that I work with. Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great day!
I read some of this magazine last night, and an article about staggered cardio caught my eye. Currently, I have been experimenting with pre and post workout exhaustion techniques, and I do this by combining P90X workouts with Insanity workouts, so I benefit from extreme strength and muscle endurance routines combined with MAX Interval cardio training. The article advised that instead of running for a half hour to an hour at a slow and steady pace, you should run (or do other cardio)for 10 minutes at 80-90% of your max hr, then do 20 minutes of strength training, then 10 more minutes of intense cardio, another 20 minutes of strength training, and finish up with 10 minutes of intense cardio. This was intriguing because I hadn't tried this, so I decided to customize my routine by flip-flopping back and forth with the Insanity 10-minute warmup which got my hr up, stretched out, did half of the P90X Chest, Shoulders, and Triceps workout, a 10-minute interval circuit, the last half of the P90X workout, and I finished up with the final 10-minute interval of the Insanity Strentgth and Resistance workout, stretched it out, and I was done. Wow, it was awesome! Apparently, working out this way will help you burn more calories from fat than a single, long cardio workout will. I definitely suggest this if you are ready to take your fitness to the next level, and please click on the title of this blog to go to my coach page and contact me if you want to hear more about this technique and/or home fitness programs that I work with. Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great day!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Get Your Serve On
Today is my official 100th blog. One day I just decided to start blogging for myself, for the people that have been now looking to me for help and advice, and for people that read my blogs that I don't even have a connection with. I feel that if some of the words I am typing from the top of my head can make a difference and/or a positive impact in our lives, then it is worth it. I encourage all of you to write a journal and/or blog. You might be surprised at who you help and what you, yourself will learn from yourself if you get your thoughts out and document some of your experiences. Anyways, this one isn't about my century mark, but I wanted to give it an intro regarding my desire to serve.
Early this week as I walked into work, I noticed a flyer on the door to the back office that stated something like, "Text 'Haiti' to...and donate $10 to the relief fund." Ignorantly, I had not read or seen much news to know the terrible disaster that had happened recently, and I probably made some shrewd comment as well, which I am terribly sorry about doing. Throughout the week I learned from work chatter about the devastating earthquake and the countless lives lost and unmeasurable damage that has recently happened in Haiti, and today in Church, there were several mentions of the event and how we could contribute to the relief. We took a separate offering for this relief, and I gave my 10 bucks that I should have texted earlier in the week, and I also learned how else to help. UMCOR, or the United Methodist Committee On Relief, is the organization that the church goes through for this relief, but obviously there are countless other organizations that you can donate money and supplies to as well. One way we can help is by making "Relief Kits" which consist of:
1 hand towel
1 washcloth
1 comb
1 nail file or fingernail clippers
1 bath-size bar of soap
1 toothbrush (single in packaging)
6 adhesive plastic strip sterile bandages
All these should be placed inside of a sealed 1-gallon plastic bag, and these kits can be dropped off at certain locations including Berry United Methodist Church in Lincoln Square, or shipped (along with $1 for toothpaste) to:
UMCOR SAGER BROWN DEPOT
P.O. BOX 850 131 SAGER BROWN ROAD
BALDWIN, LA 70514-0850
You can learn more about this organization and the relief effort by clicking on the title to this blog. In addition to this, I'd like to mention something regarding the message today. Being that we are celebrating the life of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., there were some relevant references to his life, his teachings, and his mission to unite everyone. I will end with this excerpt from "The Drum Major Instinct":
There is much more, but let that be an example to all of us. Let's be greater than we ever thought capable. Let's get our serve on! May God bless the Haitian people, those who are serving in relief, each of us, and may we always appreciate what we do have, even in tough times, because we have a marvelous gift of life that we should always cherish no matter how long or short it may be. Thanks for reading everyone.
Early this week as I walked into work, I noticed a flyer on the door to the back office that stated something like, "Text 'Haiti' to...and donate $10 to the relief fund." Ignorantly, I had not read or seen much news to know the terrible disaster that had happened recently, and I probably made some shrewd comment as well, which I am terribly sorry about doing. Throughout the week I learned from work chatter about the devastating earthquake and the countless lives lost and unmeasurable damage that has recently happened in Haiti, and today in Church, there were several mentions of the event and how we could contribute to the relief. We took a separate offering for this relief, and I gave my 10 bucks that I should have texted earlier in the week, and I also learned how else to help. UMCOR, or the United Methodist Committee On Relief, is the organization that the church goes through for this relief, but obviously there are countless other organizations that you can donate money and supplies to as well. One way we can help is by making "Relief Kits" which consist of:
1 hand towel
1 washcloth
1 comb
1 nail file or fingernail clippers
1 bath-size bar of soap
1 toothbrush (single in packaging)
6 adhesive plastic strip sterile bandages
All these should be placed inside of a sealed 1-gallon plastic bag, and these kits can be dropped off at certain locations including Berry United Methodist Church in Lincoln Square, or shipped (along with $1 for toothpaste) to:
UMCOR SAGER BROWN DEPOT
P.O. BOX 850 131 SAGER BROWN ROAD
BALDWIN, LA 70514-0850
You can learn more about this organization and the relief effort by clicking on the title to this blog. In addition to this, I'd like to mention something regarding the message today. Being that we are celebrating the life of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., there were some relevant references to his life, his teachings, and his mission to unite everyone. I will end with this excerpt from "The Drum Major Instinct":
"And so Jesus gave us a new norm of greatness: If you want to be important--wonderful; if you want to be recognized--wonderful; if you want to be great--wonderful. But recognize that he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. That's a new definition of greatness."
There is much more, but let that be an example to all of us. Let's be greater than we ever thought capable. Let's get our serve on! May God bless the Haitian people, those who are serving in relief, each of us, and may we always appreciate what we do have, even in tough times, because we have a marvelous gift of life that we should always cherish no matter how long or short it may be. Thanks for reading everyone.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Nice Guy
Short one today, everyone, but I want to share a story from earlier this week. Wednesday as I walked off the L train, I noticed that the girl sitting across from me had gotten up and dropped her glove on the floor of the train on her way out. I picked it up and attempted to get her attention, but she was fast! I could've said, "oh well" and left it with the conductor or attendant, but the odds of figuring out where her glove might be were low. I quickly walked and weaved through the crowd down the stairs (that were on the opposite end of where I was originally headed) to follow her, and I did catch up to her. "Miss, you dropped your glove," I said to her. She turned and had a funny look, probably because she realized I had to basically chase her to catch up, and simply said "Thanks". It is hard to imagine that a gesture so simple could have an impact, but I felt good that I was able to get the glove back to her, and she probably had a funny yet positive story to tell, if at least once. If I brought her even a moment where she said, "wow...that was nice," and inspired a happy thought or a smile, than I feel that I had a successful day. Let's aim for making these small changes in the people that we are associated voluntarily or involuntarily with, and the small positive results will yield bigger and more positive outcomes in the future. You do have the power to inspire and change peoples lives, and it starts with what actions you decide to take, whether large or small. Have a great weekend everyone!
Friday, January 15, 2010
Squad Up!
I'm pumped!! Each day I am still in awe of how much of an impact improving my own life has had on others. This morning I officially gained a new Beachbody Coach and team member, my friend Brittney. Brittney and I worked together at Wamu, (Washington Mutual Bank), where we were both personal bankers. I actually trained Brittney from a teller to a banker, and she was great at it! Truthfully, Brittney is a bright and loving person with a big heart and a great attitude. She loves people, and that is why she will be an awesome coach, and I'm excited to be working with her once again and personally helping her get healthy and achieve her personal health and fitness goals.
Beachbody often hosts conference calls or "webinars" with celebrity trainers, and one of them that I actually was able to fit in featured Chalene Johnson. Now, we may or may not be conscious all the time about what we do that makes us successful, but the one thing she said that always sticks in my head is this: "Take an interest in people." Simple, but it is exactly the thing that we need to focus on. After all, we aren't in a fitness business. We aren't in a nutrition business. Many of you have jobs and maybe you work retail, sales, hospitality, etc, but you aren't in those named businesses either. We are in the "people business". Once you approach your life and your profession this way and actually listen to people and take a genuine interest on what people need, your sales, tips, etc, will come. Sales in particular is not stressful because it is sales, but it is because management pushes an agenda to hit higher and higher goals, and though it is not bad to shoot for goals, it is stressful to try to push people past their comfort zones so that you can keep your job.
The way I approach this Beachbody Coach business is to live the example by focusing on making my health the best it can be, and when people are inspired by me or other factors in their life and they are ready, then I am ready to listen to what they need and the obstacles they have, and only then can I attempt to make a relevant recommendation for their health goals. I focus on building relationships and friendships, and this makes my life and business more rewarding and meaningful. If you try to do the same, you will most likely agree. Please contact me by clicking on the title to this blog when you are ready to begin your quest to good health and/or when you are ready to help others and be in a true "people business." Thanks for reading everyone, and happy Friday!
Beachbody often hosts conference calls or "webinars" with celebrity trainers, and one of them that I actually was able to fit in featured Chalene Johnson. Now, we may or may not be conscious all the time about what we do that makes us successful, but the one thing she said that always sticks in my head is this: "Take an interest in people." Simple, but it is exactly the thing that we need to focus on. After all, we aren't in a fitness business. We aren't in a nutrition business. Many of you have jobs and maybe you work retail, sales, hospitality, etc, but you aren't in those named businesses either. We are in the "people business". Once you approach your life and your profession this way and actually listen to people and take a genuine interest on what people need, your sales, tips, etc, will come. Sales in particular is not stressful because it is sales, but it is because management pushes an agenda to hit higher and higher goals, and though it is not bad to shoot for goals, it is stressful to try to push people past their comfort zones so that you can keep your job.
The way I approach this Beachbody Coach business is to live the example by focusing on making my health the best it can be, and when people are inspired by me or other factors in their life and they are ready, then I am ready to listen to what they need and the obstacles they have, and only then can I attempt to make a relevant recommendation for their health goals. I focus on building relationships and friendships, and this makes my life and business more rewarding and meaningful. If you try to do the same, you will most likely agree. Please contact me by clicking on the title to this blog when you are ready to begin your quest to good health and/or when you are ready to help others and be in a true "people business." Thanks for reading everyone, and happy Friday!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Stay In School
I remember growing up and going to elementary school, middle school, and on to high school. Throughout my childhood, I always had this thought that I couldn't wait to get done with school so I could just get a job and make money. What a naive way to think! It's definitely ironic since now more than ever, I have such a hunger for knowledge to better myself as an individual and also a health professional. I'm sure all of you can attest that besides school we have learned the most from our individual situations, experiences, interacting with our parents, family, and friends, and the jobs we've taken on and all the b.s. that comes along with.
I find that now, though, it is so important that I focus on always having a "student's mentality" meaning we are always looking forward, absorbing the knowledge we gain from every day life, and staying humble. Also, I encourage you to keep learning through books, magazines, internet, and through other professionals in your field as well. I am currently reading "The Omnivore's Dilemma" which is a narrative tracing the origins of our meals, and I have just started but I am learning very thoroughly about the history and industrialization of corn right now. One of my friends and trainees has suggested another book as well, called "The 7 Pillars of Health". In addition, I am always looking to learn more about health and fitness, and I do not pretend to know everything, but I am eager to help my trainees and others learn more so that they, too are empowered through education.
I encourage all of you to learn and keep learning and maintain a student's mentality for not just health, but for whatever you love to do (hopefully your chosen profession). When you approach it this way, your passion will seem only to increase, and you will want to be great at whatever you are doing, learn more, and even want to help others more. We can all grow together as individuals and as a people if we approached life this way. I'll leave you with this:
"Everyday do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow." -Doug Firebaugh
Have a great day everyone!
I find that now, though, it is so important that I focus on always having a "student's mentality" meaning we are always looking forward, absorbing the knowledge we gain from every day life, and staying humble. Also, I encourage you to keep learning through books, magazines, internet, and through other professionals in your field as well. I am currently reading "The Omnivore's Dilemma" which is a narrative tracing the origins of our meals, and I have just started but I am learning very thoroughly about the history and industrialization of corn right now. One of my friends and trainees has suggested another book as well, called "The 7 Pillars of Health". In addition, I am always looking to learn more about health and fitness, and I do not pretend to know everything, but I am eager to help my trainees and others learn more so that they, too are empowered through education.
I encourage all of you to learn and keep learning and maintain a student's mentality for not just health, but for whatever you love to do (hopefully your chosen profession). When you approach it this way, your passion will seem only to increase, and you will want to be great at whatever you are doing, learn more, and even want to help others more. We can all grow together as individuals and as a people if we approached life this way. I'll leave you with this:
"Everyday do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow." -Doug Firebaugh
Have a great day everyone!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
My MVP
This morning when I walked into the kitchen to make breakfast, I noticed some new flowers in a vase on the table, but didn't think much of it. I proceeded to peel a couple oranges for juice, and when I brought Jasmine her glass, she told me that she was voted "MVP" on her floor at work. Jasmine works as a nurse in the ICU at Illinois Masonic Hospital, and I tell people, "she saves lives everyday". What a job description! It's true, though, and if you are a nurse or know someone who is, you know how physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging it can be. Truly these nurses, the 0nes who really care, are special people with big hearts.
I love my wife very much, and she is a unique individual. She cares deeply for her family while also taking an interest in her patients lives and families, and unfortunately, often witnesses people that don't make it out of the ICU, and sometimes she is really shaken up for the patient and the family. So today, when she gave me the news that her co-workers had voted for her as the most valuable player, I was not surprised, but I felt so proud to be married to such a wonderful person. She is the reason that I get up every morning and try my best to screw my head on straight. She makes me want to be a better person; she is my MVP.
Of course, my entire family, friends, and the other people that care about me and that have helped shape the person I am today are all my MVPs. Also, the people that I have inspired to do better are definitely some of my most cherished MVPs. Their success really gets me pumped to challenge myself more and helps keep me focused fitness-wise. Think of the MVPs in your life; if there is someone that influences you this way, cling on to that person and let them be your inspiration. Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great day!
I love my wife very much, and she is a unique individual. She cares deeply for her family while also taking an interest in her patients lives and families, and unfortunately, often witnesses people that don't make it out of the ICU, and sometimes she is really shaken up for the patient and the family. So today, when she gave me the news that her co-workers had voted for her as the most valuable player, I was not surprised, but I felt so proud to be married to such a wonderful person. She is the reason that I get up every morning and try my best to screw my head on straight. She makes me want to be a better person; she is my MVP.
Of course, my entire family, friends, and the other people that care about me and that have helped shape the person I am today are all my MVPs. Also, the people that I have inspired to do better are definitely some of my most cherished MVPs. Their success really gets me pumped to challenge myself more and helps keep me focused fitness-wise. Think of the MVPs in your life; if there is someone that influences you this way, cling on to that person and let them be your inspiration. Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great day!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Nike + Training
I mentioned in a previous blog that I registered for the Fleet Feet 10-mile run out of Soldier Field on May 29th. As a refresher, I signed up for this to get a friend motivated, but I'm not really a runner. I have been training with P90X, Insanity, and a combination of other home fitness training programs including some of my own extreme interval concoctions, so I am definitely fit. I recently purchased the Nike plus accessory to help me with my running training, and luckily, we do have a treadmill so I can get in some indoor running in this harsh cold winter we're having.
Today was my first run, and I used the new Nike plus stuff with my ipod. Let me give you a review:
I don't currently own the Nike plus running shoes, which have a compartment under the insole where you put the small transmitter, but I did pick up a tiny nylon sleeve that hooks onto your shoelaces at the top of the shoe, and it worked great. I also picked up an armband to strap my ipod nano to my forearm, and then hooked the receiver piece to the ipod, and it synched up just fine. The system allows for tracking of your pace, distance, time, etc, and there are different modes, but today I decided to do a 60 minute run. Every 5 minutes my music volume would decrease so that the "trainer's" voice would let me know how much time had elapsed, and halfway through it began telling me how much time was left. Also, you can press the middle button to get your other info like pace, distance, etc, which is cool, and you can even set a "power song" (I don't need to explain this!) and all I have to do is hold down the center button and it comes on. For my training, I started at 6 miles per hour and every 5 minutes I would increase the speed by 1/2 mile per hour, and I did this with the treadmill level for the first 30 minutes. I also was able to track my heart rate with my (separate) heart rate monitor, and this helped let me know where I was at as far as my optimal zone was concerned. Halfway through the run I slowed down to a walk to sip some water, then decided to increase the grade and start the gradual speed increase from 6 mph all over again. For the last 5 mins, I put my power song on and did a downward-ladder type of interval, running at a steep grade at 10 mph for a minute, then about a 60 sec break, followed by a 45 sec, then finishing up with a 30 sec interval. What an awesome running workout. The nike plus told me I paced an 8:28 minute mile, (cool), and I ran 7.21 miles in the 61 minutes, which was great, and told me I burned 802 calories!!
What's really cool is that I synched up my ipod with my computer and it loaded the data to the nike plus site, where I learned I could see my run graphically, set goals and milestones, set custom programs, take on running challenges, and more! Oh wow, I'm really geeked now about this running thing. Click on the title to this blog to check out the nike plus site, and if you're on there, look for me. I'm new, but my screen name is mnicks31. Hope this encourages some runners and some "tryin'-to-be" runners like me! Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great day!
Today was my first run, and I used the new Nike plus stuff with my ipod. Let me give you a review:
I don't currently own the Nike plus running shoes, which have a compartment under the insole where you put the small transmitter, but I did pick up a tiny nylon sleeve that hooks onto your shoelaces at the top of the shoe, and it worked great. I also picked up an armband to strap my ipod nano to my forearm, and then hooked the receiver piece to the ipod, and it synched up just fine. The system allows for tracking of your pace, distance, time, etc, and there are different modes, but today I decided to do a 60 minute run. Every 5 minutes my music volume would decrease so that the "trainer's" voice would let me know how much time had elapsed, and halfway through it began telling me how much time was left. Also, you can press the middle button to get your other info like pace, distance, etc, which is cool, and you can even set a "power song" (I don't need to explain this!) and all I have to do is hold down the center button and it comes on. For my training, I started at 6 miles per hour and every 5 minutes I would increase the speed by 1/2 mile per hour, and I did this with the treadmill level for the first 30 minutes. I also was able to track my heart rate with my (separate) heart rate monitor, and this helped let me know where I was at as far as my optimal zone was concerned. Halfway through the run I slowed down to a walk to sip some water, then decided to increase the grade and start the gradual speed increase from 6 mph all over again. For the last 5 mins, I put my power song on and did a downward-ladder type of interval, running at a steep grade at 10 mph for a minute, then about a 60 sec break, followed by a 45 sec, then finishing up with a 30 sec interval. What an awesome running workout. The nike plus told me I paced an 8:28 minute mile, (cool), and I ran 7.21 miles in the 61 minutes, which was great, and told me I burned 802 calories!!
What's really cool is that I synched up my ipod with my computer and it loaded the data to the nike plus site, where I learned I could see my run graphically, set goals and milestones, set custom programs, take on running challenges, and more! Oh wow, I'm really geeked now about this running thing. Click on the title to this blog to check out the nike plus site, and if you're on there, look for me. I'm new, but my screen name is mnicks31. Hope this encourages some runners and some "tryin'-to-be" runners like me! Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great day!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Namaste Partner
Yesterday morning, we stayed home from church. My mother-in-law and brother-in-law weren't going, and my wife wasn't feeling the greatest. I originally planned to attend by myself, but I enjoy it more when I go with a family member, so I ended up staying, too. However, Jasmine (my wife) did agree to do Yoga X with me, so we set a time for 11 am. That way, we wouldn't push it back, and we would be sure to fit it into the day. Around 11, I was getting some office work done, and really wouldn't have minded pushing the workout back, but Jasmine told me that if we were to work out, we'd better do it then because she was getting hungry, and believe me, I don't want to deal with her if she's really hungry, especially in the middle of a yoga routine! So I put all of my stuff away and we did the Yoga X routine together. We both enjoyed doing this together--it was like having a private yoga class in our home, and we were spending time together, too, which was great. I noticed also that some of my balanced postures were better in form, and I felt I focused harder on the "yoga belly 7" segment among other improvements. Jasmine mentioned that she also did better and was more focused.
So we can definitely learn from this. Nothing new, though, but it does reinforce the fact that having a partner to work out with will not only help you stay on track, but you will actually perform better as a team as well. Also, it helps you to stick with your normal plan if the people that you do activities with don't cancel or decide not to go, as in the church example, too. So when you need to get something done, it will seriously help you to collaborate with a friend, co-worker, etc, to get these tasks accomplished and hit your goals together. Thanks for reading, everyone! Have a great day!
So we can definitely learn from this. Nothing new, though, but it does reinforce the fact that having a partner to work out with will not only help you stay on track, but you will actually perform better as a team as well. Also, it helps you to stick with your normal plan if the people that you do activities with don't cancel or decide not to go, as in the church example, too. So when you need to get something done, it will seriously help you to collaborate with a friend, co-worker, etc, to get these tasks accomplished and hit your goals together. Thanks for reading, everyone! Have a great day!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
The Game Plan
Beachbody is coming to Chicago! This is more of an invitation than a blog, but let me tell you what's goin on very soon! On Saturday, January 30th, Beachbody's Game Plan Road tour is coming to Chicago! This is the first time that there will be a Beachbody event in the midwest. I would like to personally invite all of my current trainees, coaches, and anyone who wants to learn more about Beachbody and/or get with the Beachbody health revolution to attend! Just contact me by connecting to my coach page (click on the title to this blog) and clicking the "contact me" link. The event will be held at the Hyatt in Rosemont, and I am sure that people will be here from all over the country, and it will be a blast! Check out this message from Carl Deikeler, The CEO of Beachbody, about the coaching opportunity, and how you may be able to get financially fit with Team Beachbody.
So ask yourself, "What's my game plan for 2010?" If you don't have a clue or want to know a great way to get healthy and be successful, holler at me and let's go as a team! Thanks everyone, and have a great week! I hope to hear from you soon!
So ask yourself, "What's my game plan for 2010?" If you don't have a clue or want to know a great way to get healthy and be successful, holler at me and let's go as a team! Thanks everyone, and have a great week! I hope to hear from you soon!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Berry Good
Today I attended a meeting with an outreach ministry team at my church, Berry United Methodist on Lawrence near Lincoln Square. I attend the church services when I can, but am not a member and do not even know many people. What I will say is that to me anyway, the people seem very welcoming, and when I do attend, I enjoy the service and can participate openly. Pastor Sherrie and the church itself are very liberal in thought, which is why I definitely like it. It just seems that we the congregation aren't caught up in all of the perceived conventional rules, taboos, or even who is and isn't attending weekly or who is on what committee, etc. I enjoy going and consider it my "spiritual workout".
Anyways, recently a church member had mentioned something about having a passion and sharing that passion and stewardship was needed, so I made a decision that I would try to help out in the health department. If I can sample out some of what I have been learning through my transformation to help others, that would be awesome. I have said this before, and I'll say it again: if I can inspire one more person to make one positive change in their life, then I feel that all of my hard work has been totally worth it. The statement itself is comprehensive in nature, so I will always be in pursuit of another life to impact, and I will always be grateful to God for what He has allowed me to accomplish through the gifts and talents He has given me.
So now I found myself in a meeting with people I am at best vaguely acquainted with, but again everyone was welcoming, and we all have one thing in common: we care about people. In the meeting I learned a lot about how processes work and am excited help out where I can with the other things we discussed as an outreach team. Really, it is what it sounds like--we plan to reach out to the people in our congregation, the community, and our families and friends to help and offer fellowship and also grow the church by doing this. We plan to do good, "Berry Good". Thanks for reading everyone!
Anyways, recently a church member had mentioned something about having a passion and sharing that passion and stewardship was needed, so I made a decision that I would try to help out in the health department. If I can sample out some of what I have been learning through my transformation to help others, that would be awesome. I have said this before, and I'll say it again: if I can inspire one more person to make one positive change in their life, then I feel that all of my hard work has been totally worth it. The statement itself is comprehensive in nature, so I will always be in pursuit of another life to impact, and I will always be grateful to God for what He has allowed me to accomplish through the gifts and talents He has given me.
So now I found myself in a meeting with people I am at best vaguely acquainted with, but again everyone was welcoming, and we all have one thing in common: we care about people. In the meeting I learned a lot about how processes work and am excited help out where I can with the other things we discussed as an outreach team. Really, it is what it sounds like--we plan to reach out to the people in our congregation, the community, and our families and friends to help and offer fellowship and also grow the church by doing this. We plan to do good, "Berry Good". Thanks for reading everyone!
Friday, January 8, 2010
Thanks!
Another short one today, peeps. I've been packing the last couple days full of tasks, but this blog is still one of the most important things I do, so I'm taking time today to say "Thanks" to all of you readers and supporters out there. You are my friends, my family, my co-workers, my Beachbody "buddies", my trainees, etc. From yesterdays post and the mass-email I sent, I got a lot of responses, and the content of the responses was what I hoped for: genuine call for help for people who realize I have accomplished what they are trying to or hope to do. Yes, everyone, you are right in assuming that since I have done what seems impossible, I do know what it takes, and I am 100% committed to helping you out. As long as you follow my direction and are coachable, we will succeed together. So please contact me, go to my site, so on...(see my December blog "everyone's doin it" for step-by-step instructions) and let me know how I can help you, or even how you can help me, ok?
Special thanks to God, my wife and family, friends, trainees, Berry United Methodist Church, New Life Lutheran Church, Beachbody, Tony Horton, Shaun T, Debbie Siebers, Carl Deikeler, Chalene Johnson, fellow coaches like Jen Mangum, Jessica Pippen, and all my Beachbody Buds. If you are reading this (even for the first time) thank you too and best wishes and love to you all. God Bless.
Special thanks to God, my wife and family, friends, trainees, Berry United Methodist Church, New Life Lutheran Church, Beachbody, Tony Horton, Shaun T, Debbie Siebers, Carl Deikeler, Chalene Johnson, fellow coaches like Jen Mangum, Jessica Pippen, and all my Beachbody Buds. If you are reading this (even for the first time) thank you too and best wishes and love to you all. God Bless.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
YES, I AM AN INFOMERCIAL!!
Okay, guys, I today I'm taking a break from writing, because Beachbody has done the work. This is my second "Vlog". Check out this video on how I transformed my life and won money doing it. This is real. I am real. Health is real. When will you real-ize and join my team and put your health and yourself first? Thanks for watching everyone!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Fight it!
Well, today's a short one! Last night I stayed up extra late to get some things done online, so naturally today, I woke up and had breakfast, but tried to fit in some extra rest and though my body was telling me to stay in bed, I have made a commitment to my fitness, and if I don't get it in, I will have faltered on that commitment, and that is something I cannot accept. If any of you are in this situation or a similar one...FIGHT IT!! and do what it takes to follow through and make great things happen. I'll end with a quote today:
"It is the nature of man to rise to greatness if greatness is expected of him." -John Steinbeck
Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great day!
"It is the nature of man to rise to greatness if greatness is expected of him." -John Steinbeck
Thanks for reading everyone, and have a great day!
Trade-Offs
On New Year's Day, my wife had a realization about occasional binge drinking, or rather the day after binge drinking--the health costs aren't worth it. There have admittedly been some times recently where it has caused some issues, and also she hasn't seen as many physical results from fitness and otherwise good nutrition, which can most likely be attributed to the drinking on nights where she would have the next day off. So she came up with her own challenge--she has decided to abstain from drinking until her birthday, which is on February the 18th. This is only about a month and a half, but it is a long time considering she was drinking a couple times a week, and I am proud to support her in her challenge. In addition, she has started the Shakeology system--a revolutionary meal replacement shake that combines over 70 nutritious ingredients to promote necessary nutrients, digestive regularity, healthy cholesterol, weight loss...and it tastes delicious, too! She has started to integrate various home fitness routines along with this, and the combination of these factors will surely yield great results she will feel and see. Though I don't drink as much, I have also committed with her to abstain from drinking until her birthday, and we have agreed to celebrate both birthdays by going out for real Chicago style pizza (she made me agree to indulge!!) and we may have a drink or two.
In certain situations where you are forced to sacrifice things you love and may ordinarily do on a regular basis, remember there is always a trade-off. In our case, we will be reaping incredible health benefits and save money by giving up a few adult beverages. Also, we will use some money saved to go on a few "dry" dates together, and I know we will have no problem having a good time not to mention be confident and safe if driving to movies, restaurants, etc. Hopefully you can see how this same principle applies in sacrifices that you make and may choose to make in the future, such as spending an hour working out instead of extra time on facebook, or sacrificing junk food for healthy alternatives. Both of these scenarios will yield health benefits as well as a feeling of accomplishment. Please comment and share some of your trade-offs! Thanks for reading everyone!
In certain situations where you are forced to sacrifice things you love and may ordinarily do on a regular basis, remember there is always a trade-off. In our case, we will be reaping incredible health benefits and save money by giving up a few adult beverages. Also, we will use some money saved to go on a few "dry" dates together, and I know we will have no problem having a good time not to mention be confident and safe if driving to movies, restaurants, etc. Hopefully you can see how this same principle applies in sacrifices that you make and may choose to make in the future, such as spending an hour working out instead of extra time on facebook, or sacrificing junk food for healthy alternatives. Both of these scenarios will yield health benefits as well as a feeling of accomplishment. Please comment and share some of your trade-offs! Thanks for reading everyone!
Monday, January 4, 2010
Back To The Grind
First of all, I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays and got a chance to spend some quality time with your families as I did. This week marks the beginning of a normal workweek for many of us who are employed and have had days off, and going in you may be thinking, "I never want to go back to that place..." LOL!! All joking aside, it is time to get "back to the grind" so to speak and so let's start off strong! Go to work today (or perform your normal productive activities) with a smile and new enthusiasm. If you don't have it, find it. In the same way that we find our "why" to maintain a healthy eating and fitness schedule, remind yourself "why" you are going to work. If you're like me, you're not employed part or full time because you are independently wealthy and need something to do in your free time. I am working to supplement my wife's income so we can try to keep up with our bills until I either get certified and find a job as a personal trainer or more importantly, I am focused to build a strong team of fitness coaches through Beachbody and reach my financial goals as well as my fitness goals and help many people out in the process. So I'm ready for work today, and I'll be as enthusiastic and motivated as ever because I want to make 2010 the best year of my life! Are you ready?
*side note: if you are interested in being healthy and getting paid for helping others do the same, please contact me about joining my team as a coach. This may be your opportunity to reach all of your fitness and financial goals as well, and believe me, I would love nothing more than to help you make that happen. Thanks for reading everyone! Have a great week!
*side note: if you are interested in being healthy and getting paid for helping others do the same, please contact me about joining my team as a coach. This may be your opportunity to reach all of your fitness and financial goals as well, and believe me, I would love nothing more than to help you make that happen. Thanks for reading everyone! Have a great week!
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Finish The Race
When facing new challenges, namely in fitness, some of my trainees have been sharing some feedback with me, and I wanted to address the issues head-on for everyone. As you may or may not know, I specialize and train with home fitness products from Beachbody which can be very intense and challenging. My mom recently moved up from her "Start It Up" DVD from the "Slim In 6" program to the "Ramp It Up" video which is more challenging. She asked me, "Should I now go back and forth between videos since the intensity is higher?" Not a bad thought, but if some of you are in the same boat, I would say that once you move to a new intensity level, rather than move back down, just modify what you are doing in the new routine such as take longer breaks, less reps, etc, and gradually you will find yourself getting through the workout as originally designed. This way, you will keep challenging yourself and won't allow yourself to "dog" it.
Another popular thing I hear is: "Man, I couldn't get through the whole workout..." Some people are starting a routine, then give up after a certain period of time because they are worn out and feel they simply cannot finish. This is a mistake. Don't sell yourself short by not following through with the routine because there are most likely lifts and moves later in the workout that you will miss, and some muscles and/or muscle groups will get neglected this way. Instead, press "pause" (if working out at home) or take longer breaks in between sets otherwise. Modify moves and intensity to not sacrifice form, and follow through by completing the workout, even if it takes longer. In this way at least you will be familiar with the workouts and know what to expect and how you might prepare better mentally, nutritionally, and also be able to pace yourself a bit more at the beginning if necessary.
So "finish the race". Lets say you start a marathon with a sprint. Obviously, you will be worn out and may not be able to finish. In the same way, you wouldn't jog at the beginning of a short race because you will sell yourself short and lose. So the best way to approach either of these is to run at an appropriate pace for the race at hand. Regardless of the workout, race, challenge, etc, being prepared is key, but finishing will always make you stronger physically and mentally. Please comment below on your successes/challenges as it will help me and will help others as well. Thanks for reading everyone!
Another popular thing I hear is: "Man, I couldn't get through the whole workout..." Some people are starting a routine, then give up after a certain period of time because they are worn out and feel they simply cannot finish. This is a mistake. Don't sell yourself short by not following through with the routine because there are most likely lifts and moves later in the workout that you will miss, and some muscles and/or muscle groups will get neglected this way. Instead, press "pause" (if working out at home) or take longer breaks in between sets otherwise. Modify moves and intensity to not sacrifice form, and follow through by completing the workout, even if it takes longer. In this way at least you will be familiar with the workouts and know what to expect and how you might prepare better mentally, nutritionally, and also be able to pace yourself a bit more at the beginning if necessary.
So "finish the race". Lets say you start a marathon with a sprint. Obviously, you will be worn out and may not be able to finish. In the same way, you wouldn't jog at the beginning of a short race because you will sell yourself short and lose. So the best way to approach either of these is to run at an appropriate pace for the race at hand. Regardless of the workout, race, challenge, etc, being prepared is key, but finishing will always make you stronger physically and mentally. Please comment below on your successes/challenges as it will help me and will help others as well. Thanks for reading everyone!
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Food For Thought
Often times when we approach eating better or more nutritiously, we may think of sacrificing flavor or certain tastes. People often ask me, "So you can't eat _______?" and "You have to give up ________?" Insert your own foods into the blanks, but you should get the idea. This amuses me at times, because it's actually the other way around. When you choose to eat chicken fingers and fries, for example, instead of maybe a grilled chicken sandwich with lettuce and tomato on whole-wheat bread or a multigrain wrap, with a side of tabbouleh, you are actually sacrificing calories filled with essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other nutrients that you need for calories of fat, which, other than the fact that may taste good and give you satiety (the feeling of fullness), it's doing little or nothing for you. When you start to see that you can actually enjoy foods you may like by making them better and more nutritious, you will find it is fun to see how healthy you can eat and the feeling of wellness that you will benefit from.
For example, on New Years Eve, my wife had made a menu, and one of the items on the menu was artichoke and spinach cheese dip, which I have never personally made, but I know starts with a cream cheese base and contains artichokes, spinach, and maybe some other elements and is usually served with tortilla chips. Now, the veggies make this dish a bit better than, say, a nacho cheese dip, but still the cheese usually contains a lot of milkfat and the chips are usually deep-fried which yields yet more fat. So, to trim this down a bit, I started with a package of fat-free Philadelphia cream cheese, put more, fresh vegetables in it, and even included a couple different vegetable purees to add nutrition. I served it with whole-grain bakery bread, celery, and carrots, and the outcome was a delicious and healthier version of a classic dip. If you click on the title of this blog, I have provided an appoximate recipe. (I say approximate because I don't really measure things out, but these should be close). Think of some foods you love to make and eat, and then think of ways to make them better, and you will love the results! Thanks for reading everyone!
For example, on New Years Eve, my wife had made a menu, and one of the items on the menu was artichoke and spinach cheese dip, which I have never personally made, but I know starts with a cream cheese base and contains artichokes, spinach, and maybe some other elements and is usually served with tortilla chips. Now, the veggies make this dish a bit better than, say, a nacho cheese dip, but still the cheese usually contains a lot of milkfat and the chips are usually deep-fried which yields yet more fat. So, to trim this down a bit, I started with a package of fat-free Philadelphia cream cheese, put more, fresh vegetables in it, and even included a couple different vegetable purees to add nutrition. I served it with whole-grain bakery bread, celery, and carrots, and the outcome was a delicious and healthier version of a classic dip. If you click on the title of this blog, I have provided an appoximate recipe. (I say approximate because I don't really measure things out, but these should be close). Think of some foods you love to make and eat, and then think of ways to make them better, and you will love the results! Thanks for reading everyone!
Friday, January 1, 2010
Kickin' Off 2010 Proper
Happy New Year everyone! I hope you're excited as I am for the New Year, and though I stayed up late, ate and drank more than I should have, it was indeed a celebratory time. The new year, though as simple as a change of date, symbolizes much more, and it is important to start off right. So when I woke up and my wife begged me to stay in bed and not go through with my normal fitness routine, I kind of chuckled because I knew that was crazy talk. Instead, I started off right by doing my normally scheduled insane stacked 2 hour extreme workout, had my recovery drink, showered, and got ready for the day. My wife was a bit sick from the night before, so my mother-in-law and brother-in-law and I proceeded out as we had planned--to go to Cinemark in Woodridge to watch "Avatar" in IMAX 3-D. My brother-in-law had decided a few days ago to treat us all to this event, which was appropriate, and definitely proved a great way to spend New Year's afternoon.
Avatar was an awesome film, both visually stunning and spiritually and emotionally moving. I am not going to break down the whole movie, because it is very complex, but I do urge you to go and see this with an open mind as it is worth the experience. The movie says a lot about humanity and the type of destruction that seems is in our nature, and if I can tie that into this blog as a message for our health concerns, I will say that it seems we are naturally prone to wanting to cause this same destruction to our own bodies. I mean, think about it. God (or nature) has given us so much. A beautiful planet teeming with life. Water, green vegetation, fruits, vegetables, and a visually stunning landscape including plains, hills, mountains, and valleys among other wonders. From this Earth we are born, and our minds seem the greatest source of our future possibilites as well as our imminent self-destruction. Instead of working synergistically as a people with the planet, we choose to exploit its resources and destroy it and each other at the same time. I'm not going to elaborate on that thought, but let me take it down a notch and just focus on our own personal struggles with health today.
Most of us are capable of intelligent thought. So why would we choose to eat fatty, greasy, oversweetened, non-nutritious and logically disgusting foods when we can eat natural whole grains and cereals and pastas made from these grains, real fruits and vegetables, lean, unprocessed meats, beans, nuts, and seeds, etc? Because...you tell me. I'm not really sure anymore. Since I started eating healthy, nutritious foods in an appropriate manner, I have little or no cravings for foods that do nothing for me. I feel so great and so "high on life" because I am integrating great, essential nutrition with an equally stimulating fitness regimen that my mind and body seem to be on such a level that I couldn't achieve otherwise. I'm not gonna lie, though, occasionally I will indulge on a Holiday and have some extra calories, or something I wouldn't normally eat, but actually believe it or not, this helps me to get back to my healthy eating schedule because I don't feel great afterward. If you're reading this and wondering, "How do you live without french fries, Italian beef, pork sausage, cakes and other fattening pastries, etc?" then ask yourself, "How healthy am I and how good does this stuff actually make me feel?"
You know what? I was going to try and put a comparison in there, but I can't because every person may not identify with the one I choose, but ask yourself this: If I only know a certain level of greatness in my life, then how do I know what a greater level feels like? Do yourself a favor this year and attempt to live greater and treat yourself better than you have before. Integrate better nutrition and fitness in your lifestyle, and I assure you that if you strive for greatness, you will achieve it and your life will change for the better. But maybe I am crazy and the path to heart disease is better. Decide for yourself, and I am here for you if you choose to live better. Thanks for reading everyone! I wish you the best year in 2010!!
Avatar was an awesome film, both visually stunning and spiritually and emotionally moving. I am not going to break down the whole movie, because it is very complex, but I do urge you to go and see this with an open mind as it is worth the experience. The movie says a lot about humanity and the type of destruction that seems is in our nature, and if I can tie that into this blog as a message for our health concerns, I will say that it seems we are naturally prone to wanting to cause this same destruction to our own bodies. I mean, think about it. God (or nature) has given us so much. A beautiful planet teeming with life. Water, green vegetation, fruits, vegetables, and a visually stunning landscape including plains, hills, mountains, and valleys among other wonders. From this Earth we are born, and our minds seem the greatest source of our future possibilites as well as our imminent self-destruction. Instead of working synergistically as a people with the planet, we choose to exploit its resources and destroy it and each other at the same time. I'm not going to elaborate on that thought, but let me take it down a notch and just focus on our own personal struggles with health today.
Most of us are capable of intelligent thought. So why would we choose to eat fatty, greasy, oversweetened, non-nutritious and logically disgusting foods when we can eat natural whole grains and cereals and pastas made from these grains, real fruits and vegetables, lean, unprocessed meats, beans, nuts, and seeds, etc? Because...you tell me. I'm not really sure anymore. Since I started eating healthy, nutritious foods in an appropriate manner, I have little or no cravings for foods that do nothing for me. I feel so great and so "high on life" because I am integrating great, essential nutrition with an equally stimulating fitness regimen that my mind and body seem to be on such a level that I couldn't achieve otherwise. I'm not gonna lie, though, occasionally I will indulge on a Holiday and have some extra calories, or something I wouldn't normally eat, but actually believe it or not, this helps me to get back to my healthy eating schedule because I don't feel great afterward. If you're reading this and wondering, "How do you live without french fries, Italian beef, pork sausage, cakes and other fattening pastries, etc?" then ask yourself, "How healthy am I and how good does this stuff actually make me feel?"
You know what? I was going to try and put a comparison in there, but I can't because every person may not identify with the one I choose, but ask yourself this: If I only know a certain level of greatness in my life, then how do I know what a greater level feels like? Do yourself a favor this year and attempt to live greater and treat yourself better than you have before. Integrate better nutrition and fitness in your lifestyle, and I assure you that if you strive for greatness, you will achieve it and your life will change for the better. But maybe I am crazy and the path to heart disease is better. Decide for yourself, and I am here for you if you choose to live better. Thanks for reading everyone! I wish you the best year in 2010!!
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