Today is a beautiful, sunny day and it may approach 40 degrees today! Tomorrow we're destined for sleet/snow/rain but today? Beautiful.
So, as there's just a bit of a hint of Spring in the air (after all Groundhog Day is Saturday), it got me to thinking of when it's time to switch to iced coffee from hot coffee at DD.
In New England many people drink iced coffee all year long and, thankfully, DD complies by serving it all year long. However, there are also many people who drink their coffee hot in the fall/winter and switch to iced coffee for the spring/summer. And, maybe I'm weird this way (it's definitely possible), but I make the switch when I feel the next season coming on. (Also known as I'm sick of winter and itching for Spring/Summer to hurry up and arrive!)
There's also a period of time where some of us vascalate back and forth as the season change since our weather could seriously be 65 one day and 25 the next.
Today? Still on hot coffee. Saturday when it's supposed to be over 50 degrees? Probably iced.
So, do you swap between iced and hot coffee? And, if you do, how do you decide when it's time to switch?
Inquiring minds want to know!
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Why I'm like Jillian on the Biggest L*ser and more for a Wednesday!
Ah Wednesdays...the middle of the week. And, to top it off, it's potluck night around here!
This week has seen classes being packed, but quiet. My friend reminded me that this passed Monday was "Blue Monday" aka "the day all the holidays bills start arriving" so I guess I can see why folks are in a pensive mood.
Last night's Biggest L*ser was yet another twist in the plot. No more 'duos' but now they are playing Black vs. Blue aka Jillian vs. Bob. (Sidebar: I really cannot stand the host, Allison. She is truly obnoxious during the challenges, giving us the play by play though we can SEE what is happening. Oh and her 'way' of 'rubbing things in' with the comments? Are there writers for this show? If so, STOP doing that to the contestants! It's maddening!)
Now, those who know me as a instructor/trainer know that I am, well, a drill sargeant to put it mildly. I never mind that monikor since my Dad was also known as "Sargeant" in his day. So, frankly, I kind of like it. But, I digress...
As you all also know, I watch the Biggest L*ser religiously. Why? Well, when it started I wanted to watch it to mock the show in my classes but, alas, it was truly motivational, gave solid exercise and nutrition advice and, basically, I fell in love with it. And, there was Jillian and Bob, the trainers on the show. (Sorry, but I never liked Kim from the last couple seasons...)
I like to think of myself as a mix of Jillian and Bob-part drill sargeant, part friend. Really, it's the "J" way to be anyway. However, truth be told, I really emulate Jillian most of all. I truly believe if you push someone past where they 'think' they can go, they can really reach their true potential. I know this because it happened to me. K pushed me hard (really hard) during my mentoring process and, lo and behold, I can handle anything (so far...13 years later) and we are best buds and business partners. There were times I cursed her name...and times I hugged her. For me, that's how I feel about my clients. I want to push you all as hard as I can because I know you can accomplish anything you set your minds to. And, all our instructors push in different ways-showing their unique and wonderful personalities along the way.
Just like Jillian on the show, she gets 'in your face' and pushes you... and you win. And by winning it's not about the game on that show, it's about your L I F E-your healthy, happy life.
You have to 'dig deep' to really find out what you're made of.
And, for me, there's nothing better than when one of you comes to me and tells me how you hiked with your family, fit into your 'skinny jeans' again or just feel better about yourself. If I wasn't so busy being strong on the outside, you'd see the tears of joy I shed later (after you've left the Center) for you. I know how that feels and I will never forget. For me, doing this work is just paying it forward.
I got those feelings and accomplished my goals with the help of my "J" instructors and K along the way and I'm just trying to give you all the same thing.
So, here's to fun classes, a great potluck night and all of us achieving our healthy goals in 2008!
This week has seen classes being packed, but quiet. My friend reminded me that this passed Monday was "Blue Monday" aka "the day all the holidays bills start arriving" so I guess I can see why folks are in a pensive mood.
Last night's Biggest L*ser was yet another twist in the plot. No more 'duos' but now they are playing Black vs. Blue aka Jillian vs. Bob. (Sidebar: I really cannot stand the host, Allison. She is truly obnoxious during the challenges, giving us the play by play though we can SEE what is happening. Oh and her 'way' of 'rubbing things in' with the comments? Are there writers for this show? If so, STOP doing that to the contestants! It's maddening!)
Now, those who know me as a instructor/trainer know that I am, well, a drill sargeant to put it mildly. I never mind that monikor since my Dad was also known as "Sargeant" in his day. So, frankly, I kind of like it. But, I digress...
As you all also know, I watch the Biggest L*ser religiously. Why? Well, when it started I wanted to watch it to mock the show in my classes but, alas, it was truly motivational, gave solid exercise and nutrition advice and, basically, I fell in love with it. And, there was Jillian and Bob, the trainers on the show. (Sorry, but I never liked Kim from the last couple seasons...)
I like to think of myself as a mix of Jillian and Bob-part drill sargeant, part friend. Really, it's the "J" way to be anyway. However, truth be told, I really emulate Jillian most of all. I truly believe if you push someone past where they 'think' they can go, they can really reach their true potential. I know this because it happened to me. K pushed me hard (really hard) during my mentoring process and, lo and behold, I can handle anything (so far...13 years later) and we are best buds and business partners. There were times I cursed her name...and times I hugged her. For me, that's how I feel about my clients. I want to push you all as hard as I can because I know you can accomplish anything you set your minds to. And, all our instructors push in different ways-showing their unique and wonderful personalities along the way.
Just like Jillian on the show, she gets 'in your face' and pushes you... and you win. And by winning it's not about the game on that show, it's about your L I F E-your healthy, happy life.
You have to 'dig deep' to really find out what you're made of.
And, for me, there's nothing better than when one of you comes to me and tells me how you hiked with your family, fit into your 'skinny jeans' again or just feel better about yourself. If I wasn't so busy being strong on the outside, you'd see the tears of joy I shed later (after you've left the Center) for you. I know how that feels and I will never forget. For me, doing this work is just paying it forward.
I got those feelings and accomplished my goals with the help of my "J" instructors and K along the way and I'm just trying to give you all the same thing.
So, here's to fun classes, a great potluck night and all of us achieving our healthy goals in 2008!
Monday, January 28, 2008
I love the 90's Part Deux
Ok, first it was the return of High waisted jeans. Please. No. No woman (unless she has the figure of H. Klum herself) looks good in these things. Let me help you-your rear end looks about the size of TEXAS in those things. Take. Them. Off. Forever. (Oh and to make matters worse, they are also tapering some of them again too. So not only does your rear look like the size of a State but you look like an ice cream cone with legs.) Lord.
Now?
I heard this on the radio (the news no less) today and I almost couldn't believe it.
It's the return of New Kids on the Block.
For real.
Now, it's not that I wasn't an "NKOTB" fan back in the day. I was a little bit older than most fans but we did dance to some of it in class, so that's my excuse. Really, it was great dance music- so there!
Anyway...it makes you think. Why *do* things come back around like they do? The mini skirt, the VW beetle, the large sedans, Candies shoes...what next, shoulder pads???
Maybe it's because we all want to remember back to a simpler time in our lives and each generation brings back those things they remember from childhood. I mean, they still play 70's and 80's music on many stations and, those of us of a certain age, we love it, right?
So if you care to share, what are some things you would like to see 'come back'?
Me? Decent sitcom TV. (a la Friends, Raymond, Will & Grace)
And, well, there was this ice cream topping (the name escapes me) that you put on your ice cream and it would harden. Not like a thin shell (they have that out now), but it made a thick layer of chocolate on top, like a lid almost. Now that can come back and I'll be happy. (Though my waistline certainly would not be happy to see it!)
Oh, and let's not forget that our program-the almost 40 year old "J" is still alive and kicking and always has been. It's no 'comeback kid' but it certainly does remind us all of simpler times and, maybe that's why folks return so often, even after years away. And, of course, the fact that it works!
And maybe, just maybe we will have some new "NKOTB" music to look forward to dancing to in the near future!
Now?
I heard this on the radio (the news no less) today and I almost couldn't believe it.
It's the return of New Kids on the Block.
For real.
Now, it's not that I wasn't an "NKOTB" fan back in the day. I was a little bit older than most fans but we did dance to some of it in class, so that's my excuse. Really, it was great dance music- so there!
Anyway...it makes you think. Why *do* things come back around like they do? The mini skirt, the VW beetle, the large sedans, Candies shoes...what next, shoulder pads???
Maybe it's because we all want to remember back to a simpler time in our lives and each generation brings back those things they remember from childhood. I mean, they still play 70's and 80's music on many stations and, those of us of a certain age, we love it, right?
So if you care to share, what are some things you would like to see 'come back'?
Me? Decent sitcom TV. (a la Friends, Raymond, Will & Grace)
And, well, there was this ice cream topping (the name escapes me) that you put on your ice cream and it would harden. Not like a thin shell (they have that out now), but it made a thick layer of chocolate on top, like a lid almost. Now that can come back and I'll be happy. (Though my waistline certainly would not be happy to see it!)
Oh, and let's not forget that our program-the almost 40 year old "J" is still alive and kicking and always has been. It's no 'comeback kid' but it certainly does remind us all of simpler times and, maybe that's why folks return so often, even after years away. And, of course, the fact that it works!
And maybe, just maybe we will have some new "NKOTB" music to look forward to dancing to in the near future!
Friday, January 25, 2008
Thank God it's Friday?
I'm sure we're all glad it's Friday-from those who work outside the home to those who are SAHMs...Friday seems to be a day we're all glad to see arrive each week!
In working with PT clients, the weekends seem to bring a certain amount of stress when it comes to keeping to eating well. The exercise component doesn't seem to be a problem-our weekend classes are the largest of the week but the food part? Not so much.
When weekends include family parties, going out and the upcoming BIG weekend (Superbowl Sunday) everyone wonders...how can I keep to my nutrition plan when I have all these fun things going on and all those food temptations to navigate???
Well, try this-K.I.S.S. (Keep it simple sista!) Do your best with eating Monday through Friday whether you are at the office or at home. Never skip meals and drink that water. Then, on the weekends you can go a bit 'nuts' without blowing your healthy eating. Keep to your exercise schedule and get to class 3-5x per week and VOILA! you're ok. That way, you can have that beer during the game and those nachos on Saturday or Sunday (or both) and get back to it (better nutrition) on Monday! I think we all try and make things more complicated than they need to be sometimes-I know I do that! But, when I break things down to the simplest form, I can easily do what I need to do.
Because, after all, we want to enjoy life while we're trying to get and stay fit and denying yourself those treats when you want them isn't going to work long-term. So, finish out your healthy eating today, grab some special treats for the weekend BEFORE the big game and we'll see you in class this weekend!
And never forget...you are worth it!
In working with PT clients, the weekends seem to bring a certain amount of stress when it comes to keeping to eating well. The exercise component doesn't seem to be a problem-our weekend classes are the largest of the week but the food part? Not so much.
When weekends include family parties, going out and the upcoming BIG weekend (Superbowl Sunday) everyone wonders...how can I keep to my nutrition plan when I have all these fun things going on and all those food temptations to navigate???
Well, try this-K.I.S.S. (Keep it simple sista!) Do your best with eating Monday through Friday whether you are at the office or at home. Never skip meals and drink that water. Then, on the weekends you can go a bit 'nuts' without blowing your healthy eating. Keep to your exercise schedule and get to class 3-5x per week and VOILA! you're ok. That way, you can have that beer during the game and those nachos on Saturday or Sunday (or both) and get back to it (better nutrition) on Monday! I think we all try and make things more complicated than they need to be sometimes-I know I do that! But, when I break things down to the simplest form, I can easily do what I need to do.
Because, after all, we want to enjoy life while we're trying to get and stay fit and denying yourself those treats when you want them isn't going to work long-term. So, finish out your healthy eating today, grab some special treats for the weekend BEFORE the big game and we'll see you in class this weekend!
And never forget...you are worth it!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
3 R's
Reuse, reduce and recycle.
Now, everyone knows that I love to shop; however, in the last few years, I've made a concerted effort to really think before I buy something. I mean, I took a look in my closet and realized just how many clothing items I have, so I've been bringing things to homeless shelters, food pantries and other charities. These are things I don't wear and, I think we all know that 'rule'-If you haven't worn it in 1 year, when ARE you going to wear it? Answer-never. (Well, for the most part anyway.) It feels good to give things that I know someone else can use and I certainly don't need that much. And, frankly, it's kind of embarrassing thinking of having bought things I don't need!
I try and think what will really add to my wardrobe, be long lasting and flatter my shape. I think every woman struggles with that, you know?
So I guess that goes under-reduce and, possibly recycle (when donating the clothes).
I also bought some reusable grocery bags. I try and buy organic whenever I can and I know it's healthier and better for our local economy. After all, I own a small business and, for the most part, local farms are small, family businesses! The store I go to most often is a bit of a ride, but they have the best organic meat and produce!
However, I even see the reusable bags in all the supermarkets in my neighborhood and I'm sure there are some at the store where you shop-so pick a few up and feel good about reusing, instead of killing another 'plastic tree' with all those plastic bags! And, buying local produce and meat actually reduces the gas used by those big trucks to bring everything here from far away! Another way to reduce!
Under reuse I think we can talk about water bottles. I mean, we own a Fitness Center and we do sell bottled water; however, many people point out those are plastic. True- and we would recycle if we had *any* space in which to do so but, sadly, we do not. Many of our clients bring in their own water bottles and reuse them, which is great! We basically have the water for sale for those who forget theirs or new folks who don't know they should bring any.
If you're reusing a water bottle, just remember to clean it thoroughly and often. Germs can grow in there and you certainly don't want to miss out on your workouts by being sick!
Try and think of little ways you can use the 3R's in your own life and you might end up with more space in your closet, a good feeling about those grocery bags and even a cute water bottle to carry around on your travels!
Now, everyone knows that I love to shop; however, in the last few years, I've made a concerted effort to really think before I buy something. I mean, I took a look in my closet and realized just how many clothing items I have, so I've been bringing things to homeless shelters, food pantries and other charities. These are things I don't wear and, I think we all know that 'rule'-If you haven't worn it in 1 year, when ARE you going to wear it? Answer-never. (Well, for the most part anyway.) It feels good to give things that I know someone else can use and I certainly don't need that much. And, frankly, it's kind of embarrassing thinking of having bought things I don't need!
I try and think what will really add to my wardrobe, be long lasting and flatter my shape. I think every woman struggles with that, you know?
So I guess that goes under-reduce and, possibly recycle (when donating the clothes).
I also bought some reusable grocery bags. I try and buy organic whenever I can and I know it's healthier and better for our local economy. After all, I own a small business and, for the most part, local farms are small, family businesses! The store I go to most often is a bit of a ride, but they have the best organic meat and produce!
However, I even see the reusable bags in all the supermarkets in my neighborhood and I'm sure there are some at the store where you shop-so pick a few up and feel good about reusing, instead of killing another 'plastic tree' with all those plastic bags! And, buying local produce and meat actually reduces the gas used by those big trucks to bring everything here from far away! Another way to reduce!
Under reuse I think we can talk about water bottles. I mean, we own a Fitness Center and we do sell bottled water; however, many people point out those are plastic. True- and we would recycle if we had *any* space in which to do so but, sadly, we do not. Many of our clients bring in their own water bottles and reuse them, which is great! We basically have the water for sale for those who forget theirs or new folks who don't know they should bring any.
If you're reusing a water bottle, just remember to clean it thoroughly and often. Germs can grow in there and you certainly don't want to miss out on your workouts by being sick!
Try and think of little ways you can use the 3R's in your own life and you might end up with more space in your closet, a good feeling about those grocery bags and even a cute water bottle to carry around on your travels!
Monday, January 21, 2008
Congrats to the Pats! (How does *that* relate to fitness??)
Well, our New England Patriots are in the Super Bowl for the 4th time in 7 years! It's been a long season but they seem to keep each game in perspective (uh, they are also 18-0), never letting the long term goal (that perfect season) keep them from staying in the present and fighting through all their challenges.
Every day we all have to do the exact same thing on our road to being fit and staying healthy. Many times, we have a goal in mind-that vacation, wedding or other event upcoming in our lives and we want to look our 'best' for it. But, isn't it important to look and feel your best for every day life and not just those 'special' moments? Yes.
So, as I sat watching the game yesterday, I thought about the every week struggle the Pats went through to get to the Super Bowl and how it's kind of like every day in the life of a woman trying to stay in shape, get into shape or just overall feel better about herself.
We all struggle with nutrition-what to eat, how much to eat, when to eat or when not to. (or in football terms-to pass or not to pass, to go for it on the 3rd down or not) We make it so complex when it's really quite simple. More calories out then in = weight loss, same amount of calories in and out = maintenance and more calories in then out = weight gain. There's no magic pill or formula of foods to eat. No book will help you, no pre-packaged food is the answer. If you keep a simple food journal (a 99 cent notebook will do) and write everything you put in your mouth for one week (every morsel), you can find out exactly what to do all on your own. Just be honest with yourself and the answer will be right in front of you! And, keeping to your exercise program (that special J vitamin you need) 3-5x per week, your goals will be in sight in no time.
So, don't just get ready for the 'Super Bowl'-try every single day to eat pretty well and when you struggle, simply keep on trying. That Pats found ways to win when the chips were down and you can find ways to win when, well, the potato chips are down on your plate one too many times! (Sometimes we have to punt or settle for a field goal!) Skip those chips a couple times a week, exercise and you'll get there. And you know we'll be here to help you!
Every day we all have to do the exact same thing on our road to being fit and staying healthy. Many times, we have a goal in mind-that vacation, wedding or other event upcoming in our lives and we want to look our 'best' for it. But, isn't it important to look and feel your best for every day life and not just those 'special' moments? Yes.
So, as I sat watching the game yesterday, I thought about the every week struggle the Pats went through to get to the Super Bowl and how it's kind of like every day in the life of a woman trying to stay in shape, get into shape or just overall feel better about herself.
We all struggle with nutrition-what to eat, how much to eat, when to eat or when not to. (or in football terms-to pass or not to pass, to go for it on the 3rd down or not) We make it so complex when it's really quite simple. More calories out then in = weight loss, same amount of calories in and out = maintenance and more calories in then out = weight gain. There's no magic pill or formula of foods to eat. No book will help you, no pre-packaged food is the answer. If you keep a simple food journal (a 99 cent notebook will do) and write everything you put in your mouth for one week (every morsel), you can find out exactly what to do all on your own. Just be honest with yourself and the answer will be right in front of you! And, keeping to your exercise program (that special J vitamin you need) 3-5x per week, your goals will be in sight in no time.
So, don't just get ready for the 'Super Bowl'-try every single day to eat pretty well and when you struggle, simply keep on trying. That Pats found ways to win when the chips were down and you can find ways to win when, well, the potato chips are down on your plate one too many times! (Sometimes we have to punt or settle for a field goal!) Skip those chips a couple times a week, exercise and you'll get there. And you know we'll be here to help you!
First post!
We're just starting out in the blog-sphere so it's going to be a bit rough at first.
The thought behind this blog is to share insight into staying fit and motivated in the real world. Our business is almost 14 years old and very successful. We're lucky to have thousands of wonderful clients who dance in class with us at any of our 30 classes per week.
We're here blogging to motivate them, share ideas, tips and tricks and to invite you in to share yours.
So, feel free to share your journey here too-we're all in this together!
The thought behind this blog is to share insight into staying fit and motivated in the real world. Our business is almost 14 years old and very successful. We're lucky to have thousands of wonderful clients who dance in class with us at any of our 30 classes per week.
We're here blogging to motivate them, share ideas, tips and tricks and to invite you in to share yours.
So, feel free to share your journey here too-we're all in this together!
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