Friday, April 30, 2010

Pilates

I woke up really early this morning and just didn't feel like leaving my apartment. Sometimes you just don't feel like going anywhere, ya know? Well, that doesn't mean skipping out on your workout. I was going to spend my hour with Cathe Friedrich's, and do her workout I recorded, but decided I wanted to change things up.

A few months ago I bought a piece of equipment that was featured in one of my magazines, Shape. It's called: CorePlus Reformer, it's made by Gaiam, and is a resistance band that has four handles. It came with a Workout DVD featuring pilates guru, Mari Winsor. I bought it at drugstore.com for around $35. So, I FINALLY did Mari's core workout with my new reformer and really enjoyed it.

I'm a big fan of pilates. I was the demonstrator in my class for two years. Pilates is so good for your core and is a great full body workout that keeps you lean. It's also great for gaining flexibility, I encourage men to take pilates for this reason. There are mat classes, or classes that use machines. Each are great for your body, and are both challenging. I eventually will teach a mat pilates class.....it's on my agenda! Enjoy your weekend, have some fun, and be healthy!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
As with yoga, if you can't afford to take pilates classes there are great DVD's to purchase, or rent at your local library. My favorites are Denise Austin, or any Winsor series.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

The Farmers Market

My lesson for yesterday and today is on resistance training. This is really important information so I am soaking it in. I'm taking extensive time re-reading and learning. Resistance training is more easily understood as weight training. For my workout today the body part I trained was my back. I practice a split routine system, where I work a specific body part each day. This system works well for me, there are many different systems to choose from. When starting a resistance training system, be sure to find one that works best for you and your fitness goals.

The other day I had lunch at the farmers market, at the grove in LA, with a few friends. I wanted to address farmers markets today. It is a great place to get your produce, and for the most part it's MUCH cheaper than grocery stores. You can also talk to the growers, and get to know the people you are purchasing your nutrients from.

Almost every city has a farmers market. I'm sure there is one very close to your home. It's fun to go with a friend, and it helps your local growers stay in business.

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
I got blueberries for only $0.99 at the farmers market this weekend. Blueberries are full of antioxidants, and a cancer fighter. I eat blueberries almost every single day. Go out this week, have some fun at your farmers market, and buy some healthy blueberries......they are sooooooooooooooooo good for you!!!!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

There is enough time

It was suppose to rain in LA today, the weather report was incorrect, it is a really nice day. It's sunny with a bit of a breeze. I trained my legs this morning, I got inspired by a friend whom I recently saw that has rock hard legs. He was sore on Monday from his workout Sat. I love that, I hope I'm sore for the next few days because I was burning and shaking.

So let's talk about time. What I am learning talking to people and trying to help and inspire my friends and followers is that most people claim they don't have enough time for a fitness regimen. I beg to differ.

There is no need to be a fanatic, you can start out small. The average person only needs 3 days of training for 30-60 minutes. I'm sorry but that's really not to much to ask to benefit your health and heart. The increased energy alone is worth it.

With technology today you can multi task. While your on your computer sit and ride a stationary bike, jump on a treadmill and walk or run while your watching your favorite show, if you have a conference call take a walk while talking, hike with a friend you want to catch up with. There is enough time, you just have to make the commitment and find a way. You can do it, right now schedule a time this week when you are going to get your heart moving and exercise. Do it right now!!!! You can do it, I know you can!!!!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
This is straight from my textbook. There was a study done and it is a fact that if you break up your cardio in the day and have it remain at the same intensity, you will burn the same amount of calories. An example is if you ran for 30 minutes at level 5.5, you will burn the same amount of calories if you ran for 10 minutes 3 times that day at 5.5. If your under time constraints do ten minutes in the morning, at lunch, and in the evening.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Stripper pole work

It's late in the afternoon and I just got done training. I had appointments today so I had to push going to the gym back. I always find it harder to get to the gym when it's late. I personally go as soon as I wake up. My arms are killing me though, I still worked hard.

I can't believe I have waited this long to address my all time favorite form of exercise....aerial pole dancing...aka strip pole class. The class sounds intimidating and sorta scant less, but I love it!!!! Pole work is incredibly difficult and you use all of the muscles in your back and arms, not to mention your legs. Pole work is not only a phenomenal form of exercise, it is so empowering. I recommend every woman to take one class just to feel the experience.

The studio I belong to is Be Spun, on Santa Monica and Western in Hollywood. The studio is fantastic, and all levels are welcome to attend most classes. There are all different shapes and sizes of students and it's a very warm, loving environment. There is absolutely no judgements at this studio. I had to stop my membership because of my injury, but my ankle is almost up to par, I can't wait to get back on a pole. I enjoy it so much that I have decided for my birthday in May that I'm going to buy a pole for my home. This way I can practice as much as I'd like, and eventually teach beginers one on one. I'm at the advanced level and would LOVE to give women the confidence to pole dance, it's so much fun!!!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
Ok this is for women and some trainers will disagree with me on this one. As a women I don't weight train my chest. This is the only muscle that I want fat at, (my breasts). I want to keep my girlish figure so I never spend time on this body part. I do keep the muscles toned with pilates, push-ups, yoga, and plank holds though, it's just enough so there isn't muscle imbalance.

Monday, April 26, 2010

Get disgusted

I just did hardcore cardio, I am truly exhausted. I cycled 14.15 miles, which is a shorter distance than usual, but I increased my resistance throughout my training session and it made a HUGE difference. It was much more difficult.

Today I would like you to get disgusted. One of my ultimate hero's is Anthony Robbins. I have studied his material for about 3 years. After my trip to NY, I really got into his way of life, everything he has taught me is really sinking in....I get it, if you understand. I listen to one of his motivational Cd's every morning, and one thing he states is that you need to get disgusted to really bring about change.

My trip to NY opened my eyes and I came back to LA and got utterly disgusted with where I was at. Since then, my life has changed dramatically and I am so excited to see where I will be a year from now. If you have a health or fitness goal that you have put in the back of your mind, or if you every week say your going to start it then darn it, GET DISGUSTED and start it!!!! I dare you, I challenge you, and most of all I believe you can do it!!!!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
It's the beginning of the week, make the decision to take out one bad food you normally consume, (i.e. soda, sweets, potato chips), this week. It's only for one week, you can do it!

Friday, April 23, 2010

Jillian Michaels

Yesterday evening I took a yoga class at Goldenbridge, in Hollywood. It was wonderful and exactly what I needed. I like the classes at Goldenbridge because they are really small. There were only 3 people in the class, so the teacher was able to spend extensive time with each student. I recommend this studio for beginners, or yogis who really want to perfect their postures. My training today was on my glutes and abs and I'm exploding with energy. I have so many creative ideas and goals going through my head, wooohooo!!!!

I have to address the latest news around Jillian Michaels. She is very controversial and I admire this about her, she takes a stand for what she believes in and doesn't back down. She recently stated that she would never want to go through pregnancy and physically have a baby, she's up for adoption though. I want all of you to know that I think having babies is wonderful. I hope and pray that one day I love someone so much that I want to make and raise a child with him. I believe becoming a parent (especially mother's) is the ultimate selfless thing you can do as a human being, and I commend all parents for it. I believe it to be the hardest, (and most rewarding), job in the entire world.

I also believe it's totally acceptable for a woman to not want to carry and deliver a child. It does take a toll on a woman's body, and it's your own right to do it or not. Even though Jillian is in the public eye, it's her right as a human being, she is allowed to feel this way.

Also, for anyone scared of body issues regarding pregnancy......your body with hard work will bounce back. I know tons of ladies whom have had children and look amazing!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
Take a few minutes in the morning to plan your meals. A study was shown that when you plan what you eat throughout the day, most people in the study stuck to it, lost weight, and kept the weight off.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

What's your strongest sense?

Yesterday was a gloomy day in LA, Christine and I decided to hike Runyon regardless. It was really windy which made the hike more difficult due to the increased resistance. Later my body was feeling really tight so I did an ab routine and then went in the dry sauna to stretch. I fell asleep early and slept incredibly good.

Today I trained my back and shoulders. I've learned a few new moves incorporating stability training. Using a stability ball is great for your core (my lesson yesterday was on core work). One move I love is balancing your feet on the ball and performing push ups, then holding in plank position. It's difficult but the results are rewarding.

While I was at the gym I started thinking about our five senses. Do you know what your strongest sense is? Mine is my hearing, I hear EVERYTHING. Sound is a big inspiration for me. As an actress it's the only way to trigger me to cry, I have to take a moment, listen to music and write before I can get there. I also CAN NOT weight train or do cardio without music. Music inspires me in every way, I love music for so many reasons.

On the other hand, I have an awful sense of smell and taste......maybe that's why I'm able to have such a strict diet, who knows. It's good to know your senses so you can build your health regimen around your strongest one. For example if your touch is the strongest maybe you should take up a contact sport? If your sight is the strongest maybe you should get outdoors and run, hike, etc., so you can get visual stimulation. It can make a huge difference.

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
This is another feel good tip and a bit cheesy. I read an article and it stated if you smile more, you will feel better, and make others feel better. Today let's all smile, feel good, and be happy :)

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Circuit Training

I have an incredibly busy day today, all in a good way of course. For me, I work better when I'm busy, it helps me stay on track. I do, however, love an easy day here and there.......don't we all?

Due to my crazy day I only had 45 minutes to train my legs, usually I give an hour and sometimes more depending on stretching and ab work. My lesson yesterday oddly enough was on circuit training. For those of you who are unfamiliar with circuit training it is one of the most beneficial forms of cardiorespiratory training. Circuit training gets you results without spending extended periods of time. To make it easy to understand circuit training consists of a series of resistance training exercises that you perform one after another with minimal rest.

If you are unfamiliar to this type of training or just starting an exercise regimen I do not recommend this, talk to a fitness professional first. On the other hand if you are hardcore or a fanatic, like myself, I say go for it. My legs were burning and shaking and I perspired more heavily. It was freakin fabulous!!! Now I am ready for yoga this evening!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
This is very simple yet quite effective. When you are sharing a meal with someone,(and alone), eat your food slowly. Put down your fork and look the other person in the eye when they are talking. This not only will let your body have time to know when it is truly full, (it takes about 20 minutes), you will also build a more meaningful relationship. It feels good to know when someone is really listening. Also, be sure to fully chew your food so your body can break it down and absorb all the nutrients.

Monday, April 19, 2010

I'm caught up

Sunday is my typical day off from training. Remember, your muscle's need a rest. Be sure to take a few days off to avoid injury. I read for hours yesterday, got caught up on all my magazines. I subscribe to many beauty and fitness magazines. My favorite, aka my bible, is Shape. I learn so many great tips and new exercises through this wonderful, fabulous magazine. Now I'm caught up for next month, woooohoo!!!

I'm happy to report that my arms are getting stronger. You have no idea how happy this makes me. I moved my weight up to 15lbs a few weeks ago, I wasn't able to perform my 5 arm strengthening exercises with the 15lbs, but today I did! Maybe 20lbs is closer than I thought....but for now I'm happy with my progress. It is so hard for me to gain arm strength, but I am getting there.

It's always good to track your progress, when you meet a goal it's such a rewarding feeling. Write a goal down today and take one step in achieving it. Have a beautiful, healthy week!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
This was in 2 of my magazines, I don't believe in coincidences, so I feel compelled to share. If you are having problems with your diet, when I say diet remember the word diet to me means your food intake, (i.e. not atkins), what has helped many with weight loss is keeping a food journal. There were many studies that found when you write down what you eat everyday you will eat healthier, and less. Many people lost weight this way and kept the weight off. Also, don't share your food journal with anyone, unless you have a personal trainer or for medical reasons your doctor. It's for you and no one else.

P.S. Have you been stretching? My lesson yesterday was on flexibility training and I can't stress the importance of stretching!!!!!

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Always love yourself

Today has been incredibly beautiful in LA. The weather here is truly amazing. At the gym I trained my butt. One of my exercises I squat and then jump up, I do 24 reps, and 2 sets. Well, I added five pound weights today and I was burning. I had a really good day at the gym.

This week was extremely stressful for me. Many people whom I love were hurting and needed me. Giving back and loving someone is the greatest feeling in the world, I was there for my friends and family, and still maintained to get all of my daily activities done.

I was feeling rather run down this morning, so I dedicated today for me, my beauty day. I went and got a pedicure, gave myself a facial, (mask, exfoliate, tone, moisture), deep conditioned my hair, did my eyebrows, and took a long hot bath listening to piano music while my favorite candle smelled up the room. I feel as though I have snapped myself back into place. I will next go study and then bartend at night.

We live in a hectic, demanding world. Please remember to make time for yourself. Love your body and treat it well. I hope your weekend is beautiful!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
Pile your plate with healthy veggies. Your vegetable dish should consist of half your plate, or half the food in your meal. Let your healthy veggies fill you up!

Friday, April 16, 2010

My obsession

It's only three and I have done so much today. This morning I got up early and met a dear friend whom I haven't seen for quite some time. I usually hike Runyon Canyon for my hikes, but he suggested a different trail in Los Feliz. So we did his hike, and it was really nice. It's always good to change things up, if you don't your body will plateau. It was such a great morning.

Later, I had a meeting at 11:30, then a lunch appointment at Sony Studios at 12:30. When I say I've been on the go, I'm not exaggerating. I feel incredibly blessed, I really enjoy my life, even though most of the time what I'm doing is pretty difficult.

So I have become a woman obsessed. I'm absolutely obsessed with the TRX band/machine. One of my dear New Yorker's, Hilary, wrote me and owns one. She's given me even more scoop on it. I've done my Internet google-ing and I will find a way to purchase it soon. Hilary is hardcore like my other friend who has one, they both have personal trainers that suggested the use of the wonderful TRX. My hero, Jilllian Michaels, is also a huge TRX user, and trains many of the clients on The Biggest Loser with it. If you have the $$$$$$ I highly suggest purchasing one, the band does everything. I'm hoping to have the $ to buy it at the end of the month. Believe me when I say I will find a way.

Well, I have studying to do. Today, I encourage you to give thanks for all of the blessings in your life. With all the disasters going on around the world we should all be thankful for what we have.

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
Cut out mayo. I am fortunate to be allergic to this nasty spread, however, I know people love it. Mayonnaise is full of fat, substitute it with mustard. This little tip will get you on the way to weight loss.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

New Shoes

I hope everyone got this years taxes completed. I finished mine about an hour ago........how about that for procrastination. It's all complete though, so I won't be having problems with the government. While I was waiting in the lobby I read a great article on shoes which has lead me to today's topic.

A very nice and generous friend of mine recently picked me up a pair of Nike's. These shoes are freaking fabulous! They are the one's that you plug into your ipod and it tracks your steps. What a great idea. I love these shoes!!!

Being a fitness fanatic I have many different shoes for my workouts. I have some for hiking, running, cross-training, etc. I'm really hard on my feet and do it all, so I need a bunch of different styles to get the maximum results, as well as protect my body from injury.

Most people can get by with one simple pair. I like asics gels for my everyday routines. You can usually find them at any shoe store and they are relatively a decent price. You should change out your shoes somewhere between 250-500 miles in distance. That's relatively 3-6 months. I swear you will feel it and thank me for reminding you to do this. Please PROTECT YOUR FEET!!!!! Well, it's late and I've had a busy day, although I'm a little tired and I usually don't wait to get to the gym this late, I'm outta here.....time to work my back and shoulders, have a great day!!!!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

TIP OF THE DAY:
Write the day you bought your shoes with a permanent marker on the inside tongue of your shoe. If you forget when you bought them all you have to do is look and you'll realize right away if it's about time for a new pair

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Posture

I just have to state once again how much I truly love and appreciate my yoga instructor at Exhale, Joe Tatsula. I've had a lot of stuff in my head and yesterday I was just not myself. After my yoga practice I felt so put back together. It's like Joe knew something was going on, she worked on me personally. Having her touch and talk to me made me feel so much better. She's amazing!!!

So let's talk posture. Today while I was training my legs I paid special attention to my posture. I've always watched my posture but I realized doing a leg extension that my weight was to heavy, there was an arch in my back. So, I lowered the weight, which I didn't like doing, however, it's pointless to not execute an exercise correctly. It's like your doing it for nothing, not to mention you have a high risk of injury.

If you feel as though your posture is suffering please lower your weight and do more repetitions. Within no time you will gain the muscle you need to move up in weight. Enjoy your day!!!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
Watch yourself in the mirror. Gyms have mirrors in them not because of vanity, because of postural reasons. Look at yourself in the mirror and make sure you are in proper alignment. If you are in your home then buy a door length mirror (they are usually under $10). It is so important to watch yourself, and if you are unsure regarding a posture ask an employee of your gym. That's what they are there for and why you pay a membership.

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

I can't wait for yoga

Thank goodness it's yoga Tuesday. I couldn't make it last week due to a very long, draining, work meeting. Yesterday I had a 2 1/2 hour long, draining, work meeting. I can't stop thinking about all the changes being made at my job. It's furthering my investigation to New York, and can I just say I LOVE New Yorker's!!!!! I have had an abundance of people offer so much help in making my move there......more than anyone has EVER done for me here in LA....tripping me out a bit.

So, I killed myself training my arms this morning with my 15lb weights, that made me happy. I'm seriously counting down the hours to Yoga. I have so much to do it will be here in no time. This training certification is taking up more time than I thought, but I enjoy learning which makes it easier. I thought I was a fanatic before.......with all I'm learning I'm a little out of control.

There is so much that goes into fitness training that I knew, but now it's sinking in. I'm learning about every little joint and muscle and how it's all interconnected, how it all works together. The human body is pretty amazing. Last night I read a whole chapter on heart rates, a whole freaking chapter!!!!

As I count down the hours to my mental and physical yoga healing I am wishing you peace and healing as well. Have a great day!!!!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
When you are at the gym, or training in any way, please leave your phone off or in your car. It is a mental distraction. You will have a stronger work out if you can't be distracted by your cell phone. I'm sure you can take an hour away from the phone for yourself.

Monday, April 12, 2010

I was bad

It's the start to a new week, woohoooo! Last week I was a little bad with food. Someone I love dearly had a meltdown yesterday so we went out and ate Mexican last night. She needed a treat, and I wanted to be there for her. I also had some pizza for dinner Friday night with friends. I had already eaten Mexican on Weds. so I was feeling a little guilty when I went to bed last night.

I've decided to not consume any alcohol this week. Consuming large amounts of alcohol is the fastest way in gaining weight. I'm not a big drinker but I do like wine with dinner. It's only for a week, and it's good to take a break.

Today was hardcore cardio and I'm happy to report I hit 17.25 miles cycling. I burned a ton of calories, which means I will increase the amount of food I consume. I'm not trying to lose weight, my goal is to gain muscle. If you don't give your body enough nutrition it will start burning your muscle so you need to eat enough.

I've been learning so much fabulous information with my studying. I feel like I'm in medical school and I love it. I'm learning so much about the human body, thank goodness for my excellent memory, (an acting skill). I'm hoping to become a N.A.S.M. certified personal trainer in 6 weeks, I'm really excited!!!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
You should eat a meal 30-60 minutes after working out, any longer and you will be depriving your body. If you can't get to a meal then drink a protein shake. One of my absolute favorites is Muscle Milk, you can buy a big container,(40 servings), at Costco for around $32. I like the chocolate flavor :)

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Miracles

I worked my legs today and it was hard, my body hurts, almost took the day off but decided not to. Yesterday evening I went hiking with Christine and Nanci. I was a little tired from my crazy morning routine, but I wanted to spend time with my ladies. I can't tell you what that hike did for me. I witnessed a miracle.

At the top of Runyon canyon there are benches where people stop to rest and look over our city, Los Angeles. On clear days west you can see the ocean and east you can see mountain tops which at the moment still have snow caps on top of them. The three of us reached the top and were having a really good talk when all of a sudden right in front of our eyes was a bird suspended in mid air. This might not sound as dramatic to you but EVERYONE was talking about it. I felt like I was in a crazy movie. The bird just stayed mid air......for a long time. To me, that was a miracle.

I haven't ran since I fractured my ankle in early December and after seeing my miracle I finished my hike running. I don't know, I felt powerful, like I could accomplish anything. Miracles are what you make of them and are everywhere, find a miracle and have a beautiful day!!!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
This is a no brainer but has to be said. When out in the sun wear a hat and sunblock. The sun is so harmful to your skin and can cause cancer, stay out of it as much as possible. If you want a healthy glow, I suggest Jergens Natural Glow daily moisturizer. It's under $10 in most drugstores and won't give you wrinkles or cancer.

Friday, April 9, 2010

Sending you the energy!

It's Friday another week almost done. I just walked in from the gym and let me tell you, I was out of control today. I don't know if it was because I went to bed relatively early, (I didn't work last night), or if it was because I got really good news yesterday, but man I pushed myself like a superhero.

Today's training was my back and shoulders. I was unable to go to yoga Tues. due to a work meeting, so I wanted to really push myself. My back and shoulders are always sore after yoga. Today I not only increased my weights I executed 2 new exercise moves that, honestly, I've been afraid to try........and I KILLED IT!!!!! I even received a text from a neighbor who heard me screaming in the gym. I train at a private gym where I live.

So, I am personally sending you my crazy energy through the Internet!!!!! Can you feel it!!!!! Have a great Friday and enjoy the weekend!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
In order to drink the required 8 glasses of water a day, carry a water bottle with you at all times. By doing this, you will always have it available and will drink more. Ralph's is having a sale on Rubbermaid, (half off which makes them only $2.99), I just picked up a secondary bottle this week.

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Resistance bands

Last night I had yummy Mexican food with my dear friend Andrea, it was my bad meal of the week and oh so good. So, today I wanted to work out extra hard. It was butt day, or gluteus maximus. Let me tell you, I am hurting.

When I work on my butt I do many exercises that use resistance bands. I do use some weights, but I like resistance bands because they make you lean. In other words I'm not trying to make my butt get bigger, just firmer.

There are many different types and styles of resistance bands. Some may be as cheap as $10, and others can be pretty pricey. A good guy friend of mine, (whose body is pretty perfect), recently bought a TRX band and it was $250, but this is more like a machine, you hook it on the back of your door, it's pretty hardcore. It will be my next purchase....gotta save up. You can find resistance bands in any sporting good stores, or even Target.

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
When working with resistance bands there should ALWAYS be some type of resistance. The band should NEVER be loose, even when decelerating.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Is it time for a change?

Yesterday evening was a bit difficult, many changes our being made at my work....for the worst. I believe that everything happens for a reason, and what doesn't kill you really does make you stronger. It sounds cliche but it's a strong belief of mine.

I recently made a trip to NYC. For those of you who don't know me personally, my whole life I have been INFATUATED with NYC, and most people from NYC tell me that I am so NYC. In LA I get asked all the time if I'm from there, and I take it as a huge compliment. My trip was amazing and I truly fell in love with the big apple.

I've lived in LA for awhile now, and let me tell you LA has kicked my ass back and forth, in all areas of my life. As much as I say I love LA, part of me thinks I don't belong here. I don't lie or use people, and try to do the right thing all the time. My point to all of this is that I decided last night to actively pursue possibly moving to the big apple. I think I might be happier there, and it's always been in the back of my mind. I have quite a few friends that live in the city and have made phone calls, emails, etc. to see if it could happen. I'm at the point in my life where I have nothing holding me in LA and now might be just the right time to leave.

So why am I writing about this? How does this fit into health. Well, I don't have a problem with fitness, but I do have fears. Have you been wanting to lose some weight and just can't start? Have you been scared that your blood pressure is too high and your health is at risk? Do you want to run a marathon and just think about it? What's been in the back of your head? Seriously think about it and look into doing it. Right now make a phone call, send an email, look up a web page!!!! If you need some help please send me an email or facebook me, I would love to help you. I already check in on people, I can add more. I'm willing to send texts, or reminders to you personally. I want and believe you can reach your fitness goals!!!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
When consuming alcohol cut out the fruity drinks. A margarita has over 500 calories compared to a glass of wine which has about 100. If you drink hard liquor drink it on the rocks with a piece of fruit. Alcohol consumption is wasted calories, try and cut back as best you can.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

15 lbs.

I am happy to say that I moved up to 15lbs. today!!!! Wooohooooo!!!! For those of you who don't know, my arms are my weakest body part and I have been trying to move my dumbbells up from 12lbs to 15lbs.....today I reached that goal!!!!

I wasn't able to perform all of my exercises with the 15lb weights, but it's a start and in no time I will be there. That's what's great about setting goals, when you reach them you feel pretty good. This was a small goal of mine, by reaching it I'm going to reward myself and buy a new dress, (I love clothes).

I believe you should reward yourself when achieving a goal. It could be treating yourself to a glass of wine, or buying yourself something, whatever you feel fit. I know that I will have an incredible day.......set a goal today and take a small step to achieve it.

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
Throw away your scale. I hate scale's, I think they make us all crazy. Measure your success in more subtle ways. Are your clothes a bit looser? Do you have more energy? Are you sleeping better? Do you feel healthier?

Monday, April 5, 2010

Flexibility

I hope everyone had a fabulous Easter. I had a great time, I drank mimosa's in the day and it's made me feel lazy this Monday afternoon. I'm not a big drinker, especially during the day, but Easter was an exception. I am shaking it off though.

It's the beginning of the week and I wanted to start off with a full body workout. I noticed last week that I've lost a bit of my flexibility so after my routine I spent more time stretching, about half an hour. I'm going to focus on stretching this week, spending more time before and after.

Stretching is extremely important in gaining flexibility. I encourage everyone to stretch and stay as limber as possible. This prevents injury.

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
To help gain flexibility use a foam roller. Dancers are known for using rollers, they not only help you increase your flexibility they also can be used for messaging the body. Most foam rollers range from $20-$30, I believe it to be a great investment, I love mine!

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Give yourself a hug!

Hello, today I want to thank you and tell you how proud of you I am. If you have taken the time to read my words that is a huge start to getting healthier and has made me feel so incredibly good. If you have taken any of my advice or started a new regimen that is a pretty big accomplishment. I want you to know that I believe you can get healthier, I believe you can reach your fitness goals, I BELIEVE IN YOU! So right now put your arms around yourself and give yourself a hug.....you deserve it!!!

I was going to take the day off today but decided to cycle. I improved this week and am now up to 15.4 miles. Pretty soon I will begin training for a triathlon I'll be in later this year. I'm really excited to go study my certification lesson for the day, have a beautiful Sat.

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
If you have trouble with temptation when dining out ask your waiter to take away the bread/chips after you have one piece or a small portion. You can even ask to not have it at all. Most of us fill up on this food, this tip can prevent over-eating in restaurants.

Friday, April 2, 2010

Happy Easter

I am really excited!!! I just walked in from the gym, today was leg day, and as most of you know I started studying for my personal training certification this week. It's a lot of material and technical jargon that sort of freaks me out, but I'm happy to be learning it. So, I used what I learned in yesterday's lesson and wow, it made a HUGE difference! It will hurt to walk tomorrow, yay!!! As I become more educated I'll start sharing more of the technical stuff with all of you.

This morning a package came to my door. My mother, bless her cute little heart, sent me my favorite homemade sugar cookies for Easter. I VERY RARELY eat dessert, only on special occasion, I'm going to make an exception for Easter Sunday. What I've decided to do is not open the box until Sat. night and bring them into work, (I bartend in Hollywood nightclubs), this way I will only eat a few and share them with my co-workers. If I kept the cookies in my apartment I would eat them all.....which is why I don't keep bad food in my home.

Have a beautiful Easter!!!

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
Substitute lean turkey meat for hamburger, most people will not taste the difference in dishes like lasagna, tacos, pasta, etc.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Bulls eye

I want to start off with I'm sorry if this blog offends anyone, and it's gonna be a little off subject. So, as an actress, I often get in my head, but don't we all. Yesterday evening I went on a hike by myself to just get some peace, after that a friend called me to go shooting at the riffle range.

Can I just say that was the best thing I could have done. I grew up around guns, my father is a hunter/fisherman. One of the rooms in my parents home is a gun room, where my father keeps all of his equipment, and his guns locked in a big safe. So, I know how to use guns. I would NEVER kill an animal, (I was a vegan for a year), but shooting guns makes me feel extremely powerful.

I want to express that I went with an ex-LA PD and guns are extremely dangerous, you can't go to shooting ranges alone because of it. I'm even thinking about taking a course because I'm actually a good shot.....last night I shot a bulls eye. Bottom line: last night I felt so good after shooting!!! Think about what will make you feel good because feeling good goes hand and hand with being healthy.

Once again, I apologize if this offends anyone.

Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!

xoxo
Michelle

TIP OF THE DAY:
Once a week eat whatever you want. I have a very clean, healthy diet but one meal a week I eat pretty bad, either pizza, french fries, or Mexican food. This helps me not binge, and I look forward to my bad meal.