Happy Monday everyone, I can't believe it's already the evening. I still have a guest staying with me, so my day has been off schedule. I did however manage to make it to the gym, of course, and perform my treadmill routine. I try and perform this routine once a week, or I rotate it with my endurance training on the bicycle. My treadmill routine consists of basic running, interval hills, sprinting, 10lb hand weights, side shuffling, and walking lunges. It's a full body routine I designed, it's pretty difficult, but the rewards are fabulous!
As most of you know, I fractured my ankle in Dec., and was unable to walk for a couple of months. Due to this injury I had to quit one of my passions: aerial pole dancing. Well, now that my injury has pretty much healed, for my birthday in May I bought an x-pole sport and recently had it installed in my living room. I can't begin to tell you how good it makes me feel to be practicing on my pole. This is a form of exercise that challenges my strength, (I perform acrobats), as well as just makes me happy. I was stressed out the other day, so I turned my music on, and played on my pole..... it completely changed my mood.
Take 15 minutes tonight and make a list of what form of movement or exercises makes you feel good. What are you passionate about that involves physical activity? Some examples could be yoga, hiking outdoors, salsa dance classes, rollerblading, taking a walk along the beach....the list goes on and on. Whatever your passionate about, go out and start doing it. Life is short, please try to find joy in every day. Have a beautiful, healthy night!
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
Sip before you snack. A nutritionist I met recently told me the nerve signals that go to your brain don't differentiate between hunger and thirst. This means if you think your starving you may just be thirsty.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Friday, July 16, 2010
Disneyland
A friend of mine is staying with me for a few days while she finds an apartment, so my day was off to a late start. I just got in from the gym and had a package waiting for me. I purchase my protein and supplements through www.bodybuilding.com, this website has the best deals, check it out! Today I trained my back and shoulders and I am beat, I increased my weights and decreased my repetitions, I also did a ton of core work, had a great workout.
My younger cousin who lives in Northern California takes an annual vacation to Disneyland. Every year I meet him, take him to lunch, and spend the day with him. Yesterday at Disneyland I was seriously horrified from American obesity.
I live in Hollywood, where a big majority of the population takes care of themselves, I was not ready for what I saw yesterday. I want to first state that my horrification was not on looks, vanity stuff, I don't care if a person is "hot" or not, I was just extremely saddened by how unhealthy people are.
As I was sitting at a bench drinking black coffee, all I did was watch human beings. I counted over 35 people stroll past me before someone who was not obese did. That is what our population is??? All I could think about were that these human beings are going to die early. Cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer in this country, not to mention diabetes, stroke, hypertension, etc.
Please if you read this, I beg you to try and make some sort of changes. To live a healthy life isn't just about adding exercise to your day, it's about making the commitment to change your lifestyle. Breaking bad habits, adding healthy nutrients, and having a support network you can call on when you need help or that extra inspiration. Let's please work on becoming a healthier country for yourself and the ones who love you.
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
Research shows that interval training (when you alternate bursts of fast, intense activity with slower, more moderate movement), burns more calories and fat than traditional cardio. This weekend I dare you to try it out, 20-30 minutes is all you need!!!
My younger cousin who lives in Northern California takes an annual vacation to Disneyland. Every year I meet him, take him to lunch, and spend the day with him. Yesterday at Disneyland I was seriously horrified from American obesity.
I live in Hollywood, where a big majority of the population takes care of themselves, I was not ready for what I saw yesterday. I want to first state that my horrification was not on looks, vanity stuff, I don't care if a person is "hot" or not, I was just extremely saddened by how unhealthy people are.
As I was sitting at a bench drinking black coffee, all I did was watch human beings. I counted over 35 people stroll past me before someone who was not obese did. That is what our population is??? All I could think about were that these human beings are going to die early. Cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer in this country, not to mention diabetes, stroke, hypertension, etc.
Please if you read this, I beg you to try and make some sort of changes. To live a healthy life isn't just about adding exercise to your day, it's about making the commitment to change your lifestyle. Breaking bad habits, adding healthy nutrients, and having a support network you can call on when you need help or that extra inspiration. Let's please work on becoming a healthier country for yourself and the ones who love you.
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
Research shows that interval training (when you alternate bursts of fast, intense activity with slower, more moderate movement), burns more calories and fat than traditional cardio. This weekend I dare you to try it out, 20-30 minutes is all you need!!!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
New Music
I am happy to say my bruised big toe is all better. I ran like a mad woman today. After my running exercise I used rubber bands, 2 different size balls, and a 12 lb. weight for my hamstrings and glutes (butt). I was really tired this morning, I had my final session with the dentist yesterday, my mouth was still hurting, so I waited util the late afternoon for my training, and it was great!
I recently got 2 new Cd's. Eminem's: Recovery, and Enrique Iglesias: Euphoria. These are two totally different artists in every kind of way, but both of these albums are fabulous. I'm a HUGE Eminem fan, yes he can be a bit extreme, but the man is a genius and I love love love his music. Recovery is his seventh CD, and in my opinion, it's his best. Seriously, every single song is so good. I was listening to it during my running, it helped me through the difficult parts of my routine.
What music inspires or drives you? What songs give you instant energy? Think about it, and tomorrow when your about to quit your workout, play one of them, and go those extra minutes. In a month those extra minutes sure add up!
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
According to a recent study from Britain's Brunel University, people who listened to faster paced music while on the treadimill exercised for 15 percent longer than thos who didn't. Most single songs are relatively cheap on itunes. Treat yourself to a few new tunes and have a longer workout!
I recently got 2 new Cd's. Eminem's: Recovery, and Enrique Iglesias: Euphoria. These are two totally different artists in every kind of way, but both of these albums are fabulous. I'm a HUGE Eminem fan, yes he can be a bit extreme, but the man is a genius and I love love love his music. Recovery is his seventh CD, and in my opinion, it's his best. Seriously, every single song is so good. I was listening to it during my running, it helped me through the difficult parts of my routine.
What music inspires or drives you? What songs give you instant energy? Think about it, and tomorrow when your about to quit your workout, play one of them, and go those extra minutes. In a month those extra minutes sure add up!
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
According to a recent study from Britain's Brunel University, people who listened to faster paced music while on the treadimill exercised for 15 percent longer than thos who didn't. Most single songs are relatively cheap on itunes. Treat yourself to a few new tunes and have a longer workout!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Yay for Spain, my blood!!!
I really hope all of you watched the 2010 World Cup yesterday. If you didn't, Spain won the tournament. It is the first ever win for Spain, my ancestors from my mothers side are from Spain, so it was special to me.
I really loved watching the World Cup this year. Think about it, every four years international teams with men from all over the world fight over a ball. It is fascinating. They do whatever it takes: slide, headbutt, kick, etc. It is so hot, not to mention the training these men do.
I've never enjoyed playing soccer, I am not a contact sport girl, but I can sure appreciate it. It takes an incredible amount of endurance, speed, and agility. If you are looking for a fabulous way to tone your body, I encourage you to join a team.
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
If you are anemic and having trouble absorbing iron, take your iron pill with 4-5 grape tomatoes. It has all the nutrients your body needs to absorb iron. This was told to me by a Dr. I am iron deficient and when I started doing this my iron went up drastically. Especially while woman are menstruating extra iron is needed.
I really loved watching the World Cup this year. Think about it, every four years international teams with men from all over the world fight over a ball. It is fascinating. They do whatever it takes: slide, headbutt, kick, etc. It is so hot, not to mention the training these men do.
I've never enjoyed playing soccer, I am not a contact sport girl, but I can sure appreciate it. It takes an incredible amount of endurance, speed, and agility. If you are looking for a fabulous way to tone your body, I encourage you to join a team.
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
If you are anemic and having trouble absorbing iron, take your iron pill with 4-5 grape tomatoes. It has all the nutrients your body needs to absorb iron. This was told to me by a Dr. I am iron deficient and when I started doing this my iron went up drastically. Especially while woman are menstruating extra iron is needed.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
I PASSED!!!!!
Today I got my certificate for personal training through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. I know it might not seem like a big deal, but it is for me. In my pursuit of acting, I have found a true passion for health and fitness. I've been consistently going to the gym for over 6 years, and everyone I know, or whom have met me has wondered why I'm not a trainer, or instructor. It was something that has always been in the back of my mind.
After my life changing trip to New York, in Feb, I decided to start another Tony Robbins program. For those of you who don't know who or what Tony Robbins does, please check him out now if not sooner. Tony Robbins is one of the most gifted, giving, incredible human beings on the planet. He would be my choice if I could choose any living person in the world to have dinner with. Anyways, I set some goals and one was to finally get my personal training certificate.
Although my life dream isn't to be a personal trainer, it's to work as an actress on a hit television sitcom. However, it's a passion that gives me so much enjoyment and pleasure. I'm fascinated by the human body, and when I do have the opportunity to help someone with their fitness goals, it makes me happy, I love it! I honestly love everything about health and fitness.
I set a goal and purchased the program on March 29th, today July 8th I achieved my goal and feel amazing. When I got my results I was so happy I started crying. I did the hard work, and it payed off.
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
Make a decision and set a goal today, right now!!!!!!! When you achieve this goal you will feel AMAZING!!!!!
After my life changing trip to New York, in Feb, I decided to start another Tony Robbins program. For those of you who don't know who or what Tony Robbins does, please check him out now if not sooner. Tony Robbins is one of the most gifted, giving, incredible human beings on the planet. He would be my choice if I could choose any living person in the world to have dinner with. Anyways, I set some goals and one was to finally get my personal training certificate.
Although my life dream isn't to be a personal trainer, it's to work as an actress on a hit television sitcom. However, it's a passion that gives me so much enjoyment and pleasure. I'm fascinated by the human body, and when I do have the opportunity to help someone with their fitness goals, it makes me happy, I love it! I honestly love everything about health and fitness.
I set a goal and purchased the program on March 29th, today July 8th I achieved my goal and feel amazing. When I got my results I was so happy I started crying. I did the hard work, and it payed off.
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
Make a decision and set a goal today, right now!!!!!!! When you achieve this goal you will feel AMAZING!!!!!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Are you eating enough
I hope everyone had a great 4th of July. I actually celebrated Friday night with my best friend Ben. We went out and had a blast. I spent all day studying for my big test yesterday. I have scheduled it and have so much to prepare for. This test is crazy, I can't believe all of the information that I am required to know.
I've had a lot on my mind recently, so today I decided to cycle for over an hour. I completely got out of my head and had a fantastic ride, followed by a quick ab routine. I burned an enormous amount of calories today so I will be consuming more food than usual. I need to nourish my body and replace my energy sources. I need to eat enough to gain lean body mass.
This got me thinking about food, nutrition, and body images. I'm not going to lie, there was a time when I was WAY to skinny. I was obsessed with what I ate and I really didn't look that good. During this time I was doing cardio like a mad woman. If I knew then what I know now.
I can't reiterate how important nutrition is. Your body is your temple, you have to feed it properly. If you are eating a balanced, healthy diet you can consume a lot of food. During my mission to becoming a fitness professional I have seriously increased my food consumption............ and I have stayed the same size. It doesn't matter how much you workout and train, if your body isn't getting the proper nutrients you will not see the results. Please, FEED YOUR BODY CORRECTLY!!!!!
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
A good way to start developing a healthy diet is to focus on adding healthy, nutrient rich foods. Don't focus on eliminating the bad foods. By adding good foods to your diet in a consistent manner, the bad foods will eventually go away, and you will quit craving them.
I've had a lot on my mind recently, so today I decided to cycle for over an hour. I completely got out of my head and had a fantastic ride, followed by a quick ab routine. I burned an enormous amount of calories today so I will be consuming more food than usual. I need to nourish my body and replace my energy sources. I need to eat enough to gain lean body mass.
This got me thinking about food, nutrition, and body images. I'm not going to lie, there was a time when I was WAY to skinny. I was obsessed with what I ate and I really didn't look that good. During this time I was doing cardio like a mad woman. If I knew then what I know now.
I can't reiterate how important nutrition is. Your body is your temple, you have to feed it properly. If you are eating a balanced, healthy diet you can consume a lot of food. During my mission to becoming a fitness professional I have seriously increased my food consumption............ and I have stayed the same size. It doesn't matter how much you workout and train, if your body isn't getting the proper nutrients you will not see the results. Please, FEED YOUR BODY CORRECTLY!!!!!
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
A good way to start developing a healthy diet is to focus on adding healthy, nutrient rich foods. Don't focus on eliminating the bad foods. By adding good foods to your diet in a consistent manner, the bad foods will eventually go away, and you will quit craving them.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Small setbacks
After my mother left yesterday I immediately started straightening up my apartment. My hand held vacuum, a cone vac, died on me. As I was taking it to the trash chute it slipped through my hands and landed directly on my big toe. I can't explain the excruciating pain. The first thing that went through my mind was how in the world I was going to do my sprinting, or any cardio for that matter.
Instead of focusing on my pain and the negative, I remembered what it felt like to fracture my ankle and not be able to walk. I put on my gym clothes and went downstairs. I was in fact unable to perform cardiovascular exercise, but I sure killed my legs and abs with weights. Today, still unable to perform cardio work, I completely used all my strength and energy training my arms. At this point my whole body hurts, which is a feeling I welcome.
The point to all of this is, yes, it sucks, my toe is killing me........however, I didn't let it keep me from taking care of myself. It would have been easier to do nothing and blow everything off. Keeping yourself in good health does take hard work, but I love myself, and it's worth it. In life we will all go through some type of setbacks, big or small, when this happens try and find a positive in it and keep on going.
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
Line dry your workout apparel instead of throwing the gear in the dryer with the rest of your laundry. High heat and fabric softners break down the wicking properties of performance fabrics.
Instead of focusing on my pain and the negative, I remembered what it felt like to fracture my ankle and not be able to walk. I put on my gym clothes and went downstairs. I was in fact unable to perform cardiovascular exercise, but I sure killed my legs and abs with weights. Today, still unable to perform cardio work, I completely used all my strength and energy training my arms. At this point my whole body hurts, which is a feeling I welcome.
The point to all of this is, yes, it sucks, my toe is killing me........however, I didn't let it keep me from taking care of myself. It would have been easier to do nothing and blow everything off. Keeping yourself in good health does take hard work, but I love myself, and it's worth it. In life we will all go through some type of setbacks, big or small, when this happens try and find a positive in it and keep on going.
Thank you for reading and no matter what shape or size you are, always love yourself!!!
xoxo
Michelle
TIP OF THE DAY:
Line dry your workout apparel instead of throwing the gear in the dryer with the rest of your laundry. High heat and fabric softners break down the wicking properties of performance fabrics.
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