Inspiring Post of a Woman who Went From a Size 20 to a 10!!

Saw this on Facebook and had to post...

"I started my Journey 10/1/2011 1 year later I am 75 lbs lighter, went from a size 20 to a 10 and am happier than I have ever been in my life! I cut out all the junk, pop, fast food and went clean 90% of the time. I let myself cheat once or twice a week. I didn't party, I slept 8-9 hours a night. Spend 5 days a week doing 45-60 min of strength training and an hour of cardio. I told myself if I gave myself a year to change my life it would be worth it and I don't regret every bit of sweat, years and blood it took me to get here." - Becky Fulton

WOW! This is awesome and inspiring!

Inspiring Video of the Man who Never Gave Up!

Below is an inspiring video about a man who never gave up. When you put your mind to something, nothing can stop you!

 

Finding Creative Ways to Stay Active - The Stilleto Workout!

"Fun, Sexy Fitness Routines in Heels. Get Ready for a Great Cardio Workout Combined With Exciting Dance Moves!"

You see Beyonce strut her stuff on stage in high heels all the time and she makes it look so easy. But, boy is this a workout! 

My Zumba instructor (the lady in the orange top in the Stiletto Class Diva video below) teaches this new sexy, fun workout class called 'Stiletto Fitness' which was recently introduced at my gym.

When I heard stilletto in the name I automatically crossed this class off the list because I can't stand wearing heals, let alone workout in them. 

Spice Up Your Gym Playlist: Sweat It Out to These Pumping Songs

I have to listen to music when working out, whether it's blaring out loud in Zumba class or through my headphones, pumping music motivates me, pushes me to go harder, and keeps my pace up during cardio.

A number of studies show that music can impact your mood, emotions, energy levels, breathing and heart rates. Not only can music help you power through workouts but it could also distract you from boredom and fatigue.

I suggest listening to upbeat songs, nothing slow. I created my 'Gym Playlist' on my phone through the 'Tunee Music' app where you can find any artist/song/genre and download it for free into any music app on your smartphone.

Burning Calories At Home on the Adjustable Step

My NordicTrack adjustable step

I bought a stepper a couple of years ago and used it twice in that period of time. I just realized that my stepper is collecting dust and I decided to pull it out again this weekend. I warmed up on it for ten minutes before I went outside to walk and I plan on using it for full workouts.

The adjustable step comes along with a workout video which has intermediate and beginner steps. The step has 6'' to 10'' adjustable positions. For beginners, like me, it is recommended to start off at 6'', following along to the beginner steps. Work your way up to the 10'' for more of a challenge.

Tis' the Weather to Jog Outside!

Jogging is a great way of burning calories

I'm entering a new phase of my workout activities: working out outside. I walked/jogged outside yesterday and today.  

I'm trying to get into this running thing so I changed up my normal routine in the gym and took it outdoors. Maybe being in the fresh air and seeing a change of scenery instead of just a bunch of gym equipment will make me want to jog a little more.

Benefits to Jogging and physical exercise:

• Lose weight
• Beneficial to the heart and lungs
• Reduce stress/tension
• Adequate sleep  
• More energy/better mood
• Increases your life span 

Jogging is easier than running, it means running but at a brisk pace. I'm not a runner, in fact I hate running. My boobs bounce, my thighs feel like they weigh a ton and I feel winded afterwards. I'm using jogging to eventually work up to running.  

Tighten That Core with the CX Workout

Today I was inspired to try something out of my comfort zone. Yesterday I attended a Zumba class and had such a fun time while burning calories and working up a sweat. Today, not so much of a good time, but I know I had a good workout and my thighs need it!

I did the Les Mills CXWORX class which works your core in so many different ways, also your arms, back, butt, thighs and legs... it targets all the good spots. (Read more about CX after the jump.)

Using the resistance tube and weights, I worked muscles I didn't even know I had! Lunges, sit-ups, squats, planks... I did all the moves I hate. This class is no joke but I felt good at the end knowing I gave it my all. 

Afterwards, the instructor informed us not to lift any heavy objects. Trust me, you won't feel like lifting anything after this class. However, cardio can be done afterwards. I got really lazy on the treadmill but burned an additional 205 calories, walking on a slight incline for 30 minutes.