Our Goal is Fitness - And They actually lost half their size

I have not lost half my size but I have the same testimony. I am proud to be 42 and in some of the best shape of my life. I am so happy and now I , of course, am exited to share and help others. Locals: will be meeting on Saturdays to help you get an at-home fitness regime started. Non-Locals: I can also help you do this at home. Contact me if you want help in getting going.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Facebook: Click View original below

Electromagnetic Fields and Your Health

Thinking about going back to wired cel headset

Electromagnetic Fields and Your Health - Prevention.com

Getting Healthy - It's not Rocket Science

The following video explains how the modern American diet, including the highly coveted Diet Soda, is very acidic. The video also explains what these acidic foods are doing to our bodies and how they are causing us to deplete our calcium resources and slow our metabolisms.

Video Link

Shakeology | "The Breakthrough"

Even if you searched the world, you probably wouldn't be able to find all of the 70-plus, ultra-high-quality ingredients that are included in Shakeology. It is a nutrient rich meal in one glass.

Video Link

Taxi Driver Extraordinaire

This is a great Story.

The end of the video clip he is said to be "One in a Million". While I do know that the fallen man is inclined to be selfish, I believe there are many Millions in the world that are also seeking God's heart on issues and are choosing right.

Link to Video

Link to Story


Watch CBS Videos Online

Should Government Bail out our Laziness?

It is difficult for me to state how much of a role Government should play in this. I just know that if people could see the link of there Health to the Health care problem we would be better off. It is sad that even in our schools Physical education and many sports are somewhat a thing of the past. In insurance companies , the bureaucracy is often so great that they can not see the benefits of nutrition, much less manage it. I always think of the shocking moments on the Biggest loser when players find out what their biological age is. Many are living in bodies that are 20-years older than they actually are. I am a believer that if we where "hit" more in the pocket book about health, people would change. But it seems that we do not want to change but have government bail us out.

Here is a link of private company not government saving money on Health care.
How Safeway Is Cutting Health-Care Costs

Another great Story - This guy is 60. No magic Pill!

These Testimony's keep me going. And this guy just turned 60-years-old. That is Reversing the Trend. Watch Bob Michael's Story and be encouraged.



Here is the Link:
http://teambeachbody.com/showcase/-/bcp/36748758001/9448?referringRepId=9448

How to reduce Healthcare Costs

Reported here from March, 63% Support Affordable Health Care for ‘Every Single American’

This is an old stat, but I heard Scott Rasmussen say on Huckabee July 18th that were Amaricans are in agree meant with the Health care situation is that they want lower costs.

Don't we all. It is not news to most of you that I had a "Health" Revival a few years back, and maybe it is due to this that I truly see the issue less about the Insurance companies and health care providers and much more about the health of our nation and the lack of a level of personal responsibility.

If My Auto insurance rates were high, guess what, it would most likely be due to my record behind the wheel. And yes to blame all health issues on our lifestyles is a bit insensitive, and I know that accidents happen and the Fall of man is a true curse sometimes. Yet most of our health problems are due to the Choices that we make. For most they do not see it hit them directly, because they just go to the Doctor and have the Insurance billed.But all this excessive use of the system is costing us all very much. We are an unhealthy nation.

I will even say before I started taking care of myself I would spend a lot of time, some of my money and some of a providers money going many times a year to the Chiropractor. I had the pain and had the coverage, so I used it. I am thankful to say that I am no longer taxing the system with my back pain, because I have none. I am taking care of myself.

So it gets my going a little to hear all this talk about how can we lower the costs. Lets take better care of ourselves.

Now that I have alienated most, I do want to say that I am excited to help anyone that wants to Reverse the Trend that America is on and in turn reduce the costs of caring for out nations health. I know that passion about this comes out, I just hope that the Caring that I have is also seen.

Take care (and pass that care on.)

Beachbody Tools for Fitness

So what is Beachbody all about? I think of it as the Hub of the Fitness Community that is my Support. People helping people. The latest Beachbody Network News (BNN) talks about the some of the Support Tools that are found with Beachbody-TV. If you are not a Club member there is still the Support through WOWY Online Gym, Message Boards as well as a great Newsletter (my Next Message will highlight the Nutrition 911 Series from the Newsletters which is excellent).

So dig into the Site and check things out. If you have questions want additional accountability or for anything else e-mail or call me.

For the P90X'ers or just those interested in the program, there are some great You-Tube clips on the Making of P90X. They can be some fun viewing over the weekend, especially if you have gone through the Program and see Tony as a great friend.

The Cost of our Health (or lack of Health)

We need to Reverse this trend People.

Age age 38 I was not obese,but my Weight/Body Fat Scale put my in the Overweight Category. Now I am back down to fitting in my pants and loving a more energetic life.
My Reversing the Trend story found here. Obese or not it is a great help when we can model a Fitness lifestyle to our family and Friends.

I'll say it again, we have a HEALTH Crisis, not a HealthCare Crisis.

Obesity's Heavy Price

71-year old Jim back in the Game

Love seeing the Stories on someone in their 70’s Reclaiming lost ground in the game of Life abundant.

Jim's Story - Video Link

Piracy - The Ugly truth

I really like seeing people get Fit and do what I like to call "Reverse The Trend" no matter what way they come about it. By walking, jogging, go to the Gym, or choosing to be part of the Home fitness program like I have and part of a Community of people that have the same goals. Yet sometimes people are taking the exciting steps towards fitness with Pirated material and truly that does matter to me and to the company that has been so instrumental in helping me and many others I know get my youthful energy back. So I hope all of you can find a Routine to help you and a "Why" to keep you going. And do it on the "Up & Up".

Video Link

Healthcare Crisis - My letter to Congressman

Hello Congressman McClintock, I am a very grateful supporter for all you are doing for not just the 4th District, but the State and Country. Keep being a voice of reason.
We received your "2009 Health Care Report". We agree you that the Health care situation is a crisis in the Country and a Government run system in not the answer. While we agree that we need to have Private sector solutions, I believe the to decrease the costs of health care, will only come with a larger focus on the Health of our nation and the people in it and less focus on the health care or insurance system. So we believe that having health care reform focus on either getting coverage for all Americans or reducing the healthcare costs, are both the wrong center of attention. We need a system that rewards good health and the choices that lead to it and honestly punishes the choices that lead to poor health. I know that unfortunate disease happens, but most of the Health crisis in the Country is due to preventable causes. We need to focus our attention on wellness and this will in turn put less stress on the already failing healthcare system. Prevention is the key.
Here are some web links to bring light to the problem we are facing:

CDC - Data, Trends and Maps
          -  Adult Obesity Prevalence Maps

THE ECONOMIC COSTS OF OVERWEIGHT, OBESITY AND PHYSICAL INACTIVITY AMONG CALIFORNIA ADULTS - 2006

Costs of Obesity Add to Business Overhead

US obesity problem 'intensifies'

Mississippi tops U.S. obesity rankings

So thank you, Mr. McClintock, for your undying efforts on all fronts, I hope that we get to hear a little more prevention, personal responsibility & accountability discussion from you as it relates to the Healthcare Crisis. (Actually, the HEALTH Crisis)

Eating Food "in the Raw" - Pros & Cons

Here is a little clip about eating Raw foods. I am not an exclusive Raw food guy, but do Tammy & I ascribe to this often.

Video Link

Fit Club - Core Synergistics

After a July 4th reprieve, we will be back at it this Saturday, July 11th.

We will be doing another P90X routine called Core Synergistics. Optional Dumbbells in the 3, 5, 8 or 10lb range. I will bring some extra weights and resistance bands along with some Recovery Drink. Hope to see you there.

Also after the workout I wanted to hand out some health recipes that Tammy and I enjoy as well as share some samples of Protein Bars, Whey Protein Drink & Shakeology. When we chose to train our bodies and test our muscles, they are in need of lean protein. I assume everyone knows how to grill up some chicken breasts and fish, but it is the snacks that are tough. Nuts are a good source of protein. While Tammy and I have learned to eat smaller portions at the main (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) meals of the day, we have also learned the importance of snacks during the day. This is where a good quality Protein bar comes in. They are also helpful to have when “on the Go”. I will bring samples of a Mocha, Wild-Blueberry and Chocolate Peanut-butter bars. Also mix up some Vanilla Whey Protein and some Shakeology Chocolate and Greenberry samples.

Hope to see you there.

Meet-up Link

More not so good news for USA

Not to poor more depressing news on my fellow American people, but like many of the other challenges we face, we can fix this. No Bail-outs or prescription drugs necessary.

I'm here to help in any way I can... (oh, I'm not calling you fat, but we know someone that we want model good behaviors for, right?).

US obesity problem 'intensifies'

Revelation Song

While this is a blog about Fitness, our physical strength and well being mean very little (at least to me) without an acknowledgment and worship of He who created us and holds all things together.

Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty.


Video Link

Beachbody's 90-Day Employee Health Challange

I've got it good here with my Home Gym, and Enjoy getting together once a week with the local Fit Club, but these employees have an awesome opportunity. How about it, do you want some help in organizing an Fit Challenge for your Company?

Video Link

Helpful Fitness Information

I just created some updated links on my Reverse The Trend Blog to help you find Fitness information. The Links are on the Left side of the Page Under Team Beachbody Links; some of the Topics include:

Fitness Programs
Compare Fitness Programs
Fitness Tips
Nutrition Tips
Recipes
Newsletters
Shakeology
Supplements
Shop for Products
Free vs. Club Comparison
What is a Coach?
Success Stories
Message Boards

Getting a lot out of LIFE - Remix

We have just updated our Team Beachbody Website so I wanted to re-post an old Blog with some new links about our products. Hope you can find something you like. Click here: Comparison Chart and contact me with any questions.

You could call me a guy that is into his "X" workouts. And I am so glad to be in the best shape of my life; back to the shape of my Highschool/College competitive skiing days. I just love all Tony Horton Workouts. Don't get me wrong I am all about mixing it up. I have done some of Project You with Kathy Smith (Before the repackaging as the great Type II plan with the ADA), Slim in 6 w/ Debbie Siebers (which is soon to be updated) and even found my groove with what I call one of the "fun" workouts, Turbo Jam w/ Chalene Johnson.

While these other programs are nothing like the "X", I did find that ChaLEAN Extreme with Chalene Johnson was a awesome change for the 2 1/2 months at the first of the year. It was after doing ChaLEAN Extreme that I got to hear Chalene speak in person. What a great person she is, I continue to be amazed by her heart towards the people around her. Now finished with a Round of P90X+, I am still delaying trying one of the other "fun" programs, Hip-Hop Abs with some of you (GO Jenny!), I wanted to send a encouraging word out to you all to keep pushing play regardless of the workout. If you like Dance then you will like Shaun T. I even pulled out the old classic P90 and while not Extreme, it was much harder than sitting on the couch.

TammyMom, my wife, was using 10-minute Trainer (you must Check out Ira B. Story, especially if you are in your 60's) after the birth of our fourth child and in the beginning of May 2009 she began a 90-day Challenge with ChaLEAN Extreme. Enjoy the ride Tammy, you are becoming "a Tighter Little Package". Ladies, you need to contact Tammy for both yourself and for her. Here are two great Testimonies - Carey Robb (mother of five) and Lori Tunick (50-year-old)

I had the chance to preview one of the Insanity called Plyometric Cardio Circuit. Carl Daikeler (CEO & P90X Grad) blogs about it here. It is not for everyone , but you also do not need a Gym anymore.

I am so excited to help you, please believe me. I am so grateful for having Life to the fullest back.

Workout Groups - Real or virtual

As many of you know, I am in the middle of developing a group of local people that desire to work on their fitness together with the Tahoe Reverse the Trend Fit Club. We are only meeting together once a week “in the flesh” at Sierra Bible Church, but throughout the week we are meeting Virtually through the Online Work Out With You Gym (WOWY SuperGym™). So no matter if you can make Saturdays, lets buddy up and group together for accountability and encouragement. I am so grateful for the community that I have found here and there is no Gym Membership to pay.

Links –
Tahoe Reverse the Trend Fit Club
WOWY - Reverse the Trend

Online Workout Groups -
One of the best ways to find Workout Buddies for friendship, motivation, and accountability is to join a Workout Group. You can connect with people who share your goals and experiences, are doing the same fitness program, are trying to lose weight, have similar health concerns, share your hobbies and lifestyle, live near you - whatever your interest, you'll find a Workout Group that suits you.

All our friends are winners, but Lina Hess Won $10,000

Tammy and I had the opportunity of meeting Toad and Lina Hess last spring. The bond of working out with Tony on the Beach has a way of making you instant friends. They are great people and I am proud of all the Success story winners this quarter, but it is extra special to know this Quarters $10,000 winner!

Not a Magic little box - It's up to YOU

Hello everyone, I had to post a portion of a friends blog that I just read. It hit the Nail on the Head. Decide, Commit, Succed. All of it is important, but ALL of it is up to each individual. I and many others are around to help, and I know I get plenty of support from those around me, But it is up to YOU. I scream that as gentle as possible.
Here is Christina's Quote:

Several people contacted me today about P90X. As I've told you before, this is a regular occurrence (yay!). The one thing that resonated with them was how they seemed to be needing me to talk them into it. This is the thing, this is not a program that you can sell, or talk someone into doing. They have to decide they want to change their life and commit to the program and that has to be done solely by themselves. I can tell them about it, how it's worked for me and so many others but it's not some magic box that shows up at your door. YOU have to put the work and effort into it and if you do, then the results will be inevitable. It's funny, I had on my P90X t-shirt the other day and a lady saw me and was like, "Is that P90X from that infomercial? I just don't have time for something like that! There is no way I could ever do it!" I'm like "hey lady, I'm not trying to sell it to ya!" I think people automatically get defensive about what they do or don't do for their health and fitness... it's like they put time and effort into everything BUT that and they know it. The excuses start rolling out before anyone even says one word. Crazy. I'm sure I was like that at some point but there came a time when the decision was made that it was worth it for me and my family for me to put some effort into getting healthy and fit. It was one of the best decisions I've ever made. :o)

Tahoe Reverse the Trend Fit Club

Okay we missed the 25^th Anniversary of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

back in May, but let that not stop us from moving forward.

As I mentioned to some of you about a month ago I plan to start a Local “Fit Club”. Beginning in June there will be the launch of the “Tahoe Reverse the Trend Fit Club”. This is to be a community of like minded people that want to work on their fitness with exercise and nutritional accountability.

It will be a weekly gathering of folks to work on getting out heart rates up and strengthening of bodies. The Workouts will be between 35 and 50 minutes and involve cardio and core strength training. I encourage all to come And do their best and forget the rest. The meeting place will be at Sierra Bible Church – Rea Hall. We will meet on Saturdays from 9:30am to 11:00am. R.S.V.P. if interested, or just show up, it is Free.

You can also see the Group at Meetup.com

http://www.meetup.com/Tahoe-Reverse-the-Trend-Fit-Club/

First meeting June 6, 2009. First good reason for some to miss this one is the Truckee High School Graduation Ceremony

http://www.meetup.com/Tahoe-Reverse-the-Trend-Fit-Club/calendar/10462254/

This is What i'm Talking about

this is a note from Tony Horton's Facebook account

by Michael Wisherop
May 18 at 5:46am
Tony,

I've seen others send you messages about their P90X successes, so here's mine in brief. College swimmer in great shape, got a career, then a house, then a family, then I realized I put on about 100 lbs. Sore ankel, couldn't catch my 3 year old daughter at the play ground, couldn't hang (not even trying a pullup) from the monkey bars. Doctor said ankle would never get better, gave me a brace, said losing weight wouldn't help my injury, CAN'T run again. Started P90, lost over 50 lbs, lost the ankle brace. Diagnosed with bone cancer, had tailbone removed, back on P90 after 6 weeks recovery. Stayed on P90 through radiation treatment, started P90X immediately after. Lost another 35 lbs. Fittest ever, started walking, then jogging, then running. Ran the San Francisco Bay to Breakers for the first time yesterday, sore today, but hit Chest, Shoulders and Tri's this morning. CAN do 15 pull ups in a row, and out run my kids again... for now.

Thank you, and Beach Body!

-Mike

Inspired Bicycles - Danny MacAskill April 2009

Believe it or not my Mountain bike is from the Late 80's and does not even contain a single Shock. (Tammy's has fork shock's). So I have never and have no plans (not just because the old bike, but the rider) of any of these "moves", but they are Amazing.
Enjoy

Let's Reverse the Trend together

I just sent a message to a friend about being accountable to each other in our fitness and wanted to offer the same message to all (if any) that read this Blog.

I get very excited to talk with people about them making a commitment towards bettering their fitness or what I like to call "Reversing the Trend", for some it is even just further encouragement to Stay the Course in there "reversal". I will just tell you it is a constant process one direction or the other, we make the choice.

Like most rewarding things in life this too takes a commitment, and it is nice to have one another. I hope to help & encourage and be helped and encouraged by as may as possible. I want to support those in there Nutritional goals if I can and also there exercise as well. Currently Tammy and I are exercising between 5:30 to 6:45 in the morning and invite you to join us. Make the time no matter if it is walking, running or stretching.

If you want to join us in the WOWY online “gym”, you could go to My Profile Page or Tammy's (Note Tammy's picture was taken just 39 days after Brady, our fourth child's, birth. We hope to update soon) and then click “Play the Game” link near the top of the page or “Connect ; Work out and Interact” button at the bottom of the page. The sign-up page should then have our name at the top as your coach. You just need an e-mail address and password. Let's Commit together.

Beachbody motto is Decide, Commit, Succeed. I see a lot of Decision, but less Commitments. Yet when there are both it is successful. I know we all can joke around about “Getting Ripped” and seeing the outward change, but honestly I am glad that I am know more durable and my heart & lungs are in so much better shape. Okay it is nice even as a Godly man to feel good about my outward look; I still remember hearing a friend about 3-years ago tell Tammy when we were at the beach, “Jay’s getting a ‘Dad’ body”. What’s up with that? I know her Dad. Aside from that, I have many years ahead of myself in which I plan to “actively” coach my kids sport teams, or at least work with them in sport. The time for me to start doing something was overdue. I hope to be a Partner in this Journey.

Getting alot out of Life!

You could call me a guy that is into his "X" workouts. I love all Tony Horton Workouts. Don't get me wrong I am all about mixing it up. I have don some Project You with Kathy Smith (Before the great Type II plan came out), Slim in 6 w/ Debbie Siebers and even found my groove with what I call the "fun" workout , Turbo Jam w/ Chalene Johnson (CJ).

While this others are nothing like the X, I did find that ChaLEAN Extreme with CJ was a awesome change for the 2 1/2 months at the first of the year. It was after doing ChaLEAN Extreme that I got to hear CJ speak in person. What a great person she is, I continue to be amazed by her heart towards the people around her. So although I am set to try some Hip-Hop Abs with some of you (you GO Jenny) when I finish with my Round of P90X + in a few weeks, I wanted to send a encouraging word out to you all to keep pushing play regardless of the workout.

TammyMom, my wife, has been using 10-minute Trainer after the birth of our fourth child and just last week is doing a 90-day Challenge with ChaLEAN Extreme. Enjoy the ride Tammy!

Here are some quotes I found from some Turbo Jammers out there, Keep it up!

Amazing! Jamie of South Carolina:
I've recently started doing Turbo Jam and it kicks my butt! I am completely in love with it. It's all very high energy and while some people may not like Chalene, I LOVE HER! She is very motivational and very energetic. The workouts are very challenging but not so much that you can't do them. I end up sweating like crazy after doing any of them and I have lost about 7lbs in about two weeks. I recommend this series to anyone! There is a girl(sometimes two) showing low-impact moves, so those who can't do high-impact or prefer low impact can do it as well.

Turbo Jam is the Best!
I'm 5' 0" and currently weigh 226 pounds. (I was 235ish when I started working out with Turbo Jam ); I'm 48 years old. I quit smoking about 3 years ago, was still easily winded for a long time when I worked out. It was hard for me to keep up, and hard to get motivated, but I still did the Learn and Burn (Just the Burn part after I learned the moves) until I built up my tolerance and could keep up. Only in the last 2 months have I become really motivated, generally because now I feel better...have more energy. Now I will do the 20 minute workout once or twice a week before work unless I get up at 4:30am (which I try to do at least twice a week) so I can do the Fat Blaster (Love it!!!) When I'm off, I do the cardio, or the Turbo Sculpt. I'm beginning to love the workouts because finally I'm becoming more flexible and I can keep up! I haven't lost much weight yet, only about 7 pounds so far. I live in North Carolina...on a farm...we raise our own meat and vegetables...and I love to eat. I don't particularly care for most of the foods on the meal plan (sorry), and don't really know how to substitute other foods for them. I do eat a lot of vegetables, but we also eat beef, pork, potatoes and most all beans. Anyway, I have also started working on portions, and I'm not eating as much as I used to. Anyway, I'm making changes for the better and just want to let you know I love the Turbo Jam workout best...(and I have MANY workout videos). Thanks

Rev ABS

I'll admit I use to complain about back pain. But since working of my fitness and nutrition, I have been pain free. It is not easy, but it is simple and mostly has to do with strengthening our Core. I am excited about a new Workout that is coming out.

International fitness expert Brett "El Capitan" Hoebel teams up with Beach Body to launch REV ABS - a complete training and nutrition system aimed at getting anyone a lean, toned body and unforgettable abs.
Get ready to rumble...get ready to REV!!

Shakeology Sizzle

Check it out at Shakeology.com

One on One with Tony

Playing again with the embed tool. I just love these workouts!

Nutrition Simplified

Checking out a new blogger embed tool from my Beachbody site. What better way then to show a great product. It comes in two favors (Chocolate & GreenBerry). If you live near me, you can come by for a sample of each of them. Check out the www.shakeology.com site for information.

More Acclaim for my buddy Dallas Carter

I am always so inspired by this guys heart, and happy that he is now has a great platform to pay it forward. I had the opportunity to meet him last March and even every day I get a chance to Workout with many others that have the same zest for a changed life in WOWY (the Work Out With You online "gym") Come Join us!

Take your Pick

BEACHBODY Products

Earl Broughfman says it best at the end of the Video "People Helping People to get fit"

I can Only Imagine - Father Son

Reminder of a great story.

Father to Son - Amazing and truly inspiring story. -- Slight changes in your beginning probably cause the most profound differences in your results. Choose Life!




The story of Rick and Dick Hoyt - Team Hoyt

Are we called "Pushers"?

There are many famous people out there, but of them, what percent would you really want a great friendship with. Well, I can not say that I even know Chalene (we are Facebook friend ... does that count), but I have welcomed her in our home to lead me in a Workout many times, so it is like we are old friends. After hearing her speak in person last March, I was sold on what a truly caring and great person she is and would love being friends with her and her family.

That said here is a note from a "friend" of mine. (Note if you want to sample either of the two Shakeology flavors, you are welcome to come on by for a visit anytime.)
*************************************************************************************

MY SHAKEOLOGY APOLOGY by Chalene Johnson

I'm a pretty humble person. I don't ask for favors, or special treatment. I don't name drop or expect that people should treat me like a VIP. I won't cut in line even when a friend waves me up. I play by the rules and know that everyone is important. I think it's rude when people act like they are entitled or that people should help them out because of their name, or who they are, or what they've done, their money, their status, whatever. One of my biggest pet peeves is my fellow fitness instructors who think they're "all that" and the "club" owes them something because their classes are full. Get over yourself! In my book, the grocery store CEO is just as important as the kid who bags your bread and milk.

Which is why today I am apologizing. Publically.

The truth is in a moment of weak desperation, I pulled a "J.Lo" on Wednesday. Well I didn't request white M&M;'s and all white flowers in my dressing room. Nope. Just a little help in the Shakeology department. And I know an apology with an explanation is not really an apology, but I believe my Shakeology Apology warrants a teeny tiny explanation. You see...ever since Shakeology arrived at our door step, things in my household have changed.

Now before I go further… know this. I'm not paid to endorse Shakeology. I have no stock in the company. No one at Beachbody has ever even asked me to "try it" let alone to talk about it. I have no relationship with Shakeology, other than since we met, I have fallen madly in love. First I fell head over heels which peaked Bret's curiosity. Skeptical, Bret was a "believer" after two shakes. Next, my 12 year old (who refuses to eat anything green or that comes from nature), then my 9 year old, my father-in-law, my Mom, and all my exercise partners all fell under the spell of Shakeology. I admit when my bag of Shakeology was full and heavy, it felt like it was last forever. I shared my bag of Shakeology readily back in those early days of this month. I passed around my Shakeology like MC Hammer shared his money in those early days when record deal money was plentiful.

I'm a "pusher". When I find something that's amazing, whether it's a new push-up bra, the world’s greatest George Foreman Grill, self-tanner, whatever it is that works like a charm, I tell the world. I push it. I like things that work! I share my findings.

So, naturally I grabbed my bag of Shakeology to pack for our upcoming family vacation (8 days in Maui, Hawaii.) If felt light. Panic overcame my being. A wave of hot blood rushed into my face. I thought, "Oh my gawd! We leave in 3days. This will NEVER last and I don't have time to order more!!!" I freaked. There was only one thing to do.

I puffed my chest up and decided to see if I could pull any strings at Beachbody. I've sold 'em a couple of million videos. That should be worth a favor or two.. right?? "May I ask whose calling?" the receptionist asked. "Yes, Chalene Johnson of Turbo Jam and ChaLEAN Extreme" I announced proudly. She was unimpressed. Probably President of the Shawn T fan club. Next, I found my go-to-girl, the gal with the beautiful smile who always says, "of course! What else can I do to help", the lovely Leili in the production department. I pleaded my case. I told her how I had been too generous with my monthly supply and now I was nearly out! I begged her to ship me two bags...FedEx...priority am delivery. I didn't expect it for free or anything. I mean, come on. I'm not a mooch. "Leili, I don't expect it for free. Just charge it to my friend Tony Horton's account (I mean come on... P90X is on TV all day everyday! He can spot me on this one... right???)

She did. It worked. Leili came through! It was mid afternoon the next day when the UPS man drove up. I sprinted to his truck, my eyes bulging, body bloated and weak. Digestion irregular and blood sugars all a skew. I was panting, shaking and foam was frothing from the corners of my mouth (I was 4 hours past my daily scheduled Shakeology). He started to dismount his truck, box in hand. "Give it to me!" I shouted as I grabbed the package from the man dressed in brown.

I apologize for my behavior. With blender whirling and smell of chocolate with a hint of wheat grass, I felt the anxious excitement that a drug addict must feel when they score another hit of heroine.

Beachbody has several protein and meal replacement shakes. I've tried and used them all. You've never seen me blog about them. I've been in the fitness profession for 20 years. I've tried every shake, vitamin and protein supplement. You can imagine because of the huge network of instructors and customers of my company http://www.turbokick.com, on a monthly basis I'm sent samples of every miracle nutrient, drink, vitamin, water, protein source, and shake you can imagine. I've tried them all. You've NEVER heard me encourage people to try them. I've talked about things I find yummy or tasty with decent nutrients. But Shakeology is in a class of its own. Period.


Unfortunately you can only get it from a coach. Some say it's expensive. I say... DO YOUR RESEARCH! It's cheap! You show me a meal with this many veggies, protein, enzymes, fruit blends, probiotics and vitamins that is this low in calorie and I'll show you something much more expensive or that doesn't have as much! It can't be done. It's less than a cup of Starbucks. Get a clue! It's cheap. Sure it's more than what you've been paying for your normal meal replacement, but this is a total health drink. It's super cheap if you become a coach. Don't quote me here, but you get it about $30 cheaper if you’re a coach with Team Beachbody. Now I am ineligible to be a coach (because I'm a trainer with BeachBody) so I've been ordering it from my coach as a customer. (Well, except for in this recent tantrum!)


BeachBody has just come out with Shakeology and it is truly amazing. Not only does it have all the great stuff I just mentioned but it tastes really really good (I have some GREAT recipes to really make it taste like a dream! Don't just mix it with water and shake it. Boring! Visit my blog later this week for my fav recipes!

It really does take great! You don't have to just take my word for it, take the word of a "very picky eater!!!", my son 12 year old son Brock. Now let me tell you about my sweet son Brock, he HATES vegetables. I understand. I hated veggies till I was an adult. For years my Mom tried and for years, I found creative ways to dispose of the green stuff on my plate without her knowing. The other day Brock and I had a very touching moment. I made him is afternoon protein shake. He gulped it down, commenting, "That was good, but it tasted different today. Did you put something different in it?" I sat down next to him and broke the news to him. "Son, you just had your daily serving of veggies!" For the first time in his 12 year life, a complete days serving of fruits and vegetables and he liked it! Now granted... I needed his shake to taste a lot like what he's used to, so I added the same stuff I always put in his protein shakes, a little peanut butter and some fat free frozen yogurt. But it was the most nutritious meal he had probably had in his life. I felt a tear roll down my face. (Oh come on! Not really, but it makes the story). Seriously as a mom it gives such peace of mind knowing I can whip up a yummy shake hand it to my child and know he is getting so many great things his growing body needs.

Learn more... Shakeology

More details

WHATS IN IT

More than 70 different ingredients were chosen from around the world for their potency and bioavailability (the ability to deliver the nutrients your body needs). Here are the key nutrient groups that these ingredients deliver:*

Protein and Essential Amino Acids to help build long, lean muscles and reduce food cravings

Prebiotic and Digestive Enzymes, which aid in improving digestion, regularity, and nutrient absorption

Antioxidants and Phytonutrients to help counteract free radical damage that can lead to degenerative diseases

Vitamins and Minerals your body needs to function for optimal health.

Drop and give yourself a workout

More than a mere exercise, the humble push-up can be viewed as nothing less than a metaphor for life itself.

Think of its motion as mirroring the cyclical, up-and-down nature of existence, almost Sisyphean in movement. Often, as in life, you are pushing against your own weight, seeking to overcome self-imposed limits. To perform it well, it takes backbone both literally and in terms of fortitude.

Push-ups aren't guaranteed to be easy and can be harsh in the pain they inflict. Yet, done well, the exercise offers moments of sublime bliss where mind and muscle meld. Like life.

"The push-up should be a little scary," says Chip Conrad, owner of Body Tribe Fitness in midtown Sacramento. "You can't take the quick and easy route with a push-up. It takes practice, so you need some fear and reverence of it. As with anything, it can either empower or destroy."

Then again, put aside deep thinking. Push-ups may just be a great workout. And certainly one for this age of frugality.

Such utility, really, is the overriding reason such an old-school exercise has endured in this era of fancy gym equipment, elaborate cross-training regimens and scientific advancements.

What other single exercise in a fitness buff's repertoire involves muscle groups such as the chest, shoulders, back, arms, abdomen, hips and legs? And if you perform enough push-ups in a short enough amount of time, it even can provide an aerobic workout.

All that can be accomplished by putting one's body in a rigid, planklike position and raising and lowering your weight. Amazing in its simplicity.

"It is very versatile," says Richard Cotten, an exercise physiologist at the American College of Sports Medicine. "I'd recommend it to anyone, but I also wouldn't limit my clients to just doing the push-up."

Indeed, man (and woman) does not live by push-ups alone.

Though some have tried.

See, the push-up has long been seen as a symbol of virility and vigor, creating a certain cultural cachet.

Who could forget aging actor Jack Palance dropping to perform one-armed push-ups to show his fitness after accepting the Oscar? Why would a 1950s TV audience become so enthralled with Jack LaLanne's televised world record of 1,033 push-ups in 23 minutes? And would Japan's Minoru Yoshida be a celebrity in his country if he performed a record 10,507 squats in a row rather than push-ups?

The push-up has the power to capture the imagination. That certainly was the case for Ted Skup, a 57-year-old Indiana man who, more than 25 years ago, decided to perform 1,000 push-ups a day, every day, for the rest of his life.

More than 11 million push-ups later, Skup remains true to his vow. He is so dedicated to promoting his exercise of choice that he even wrote an entertaining, self-published book, "Death, Taxes & Pushups" (Abox Publishing, $18.95, 214 pages).

Skup's lofty goal: Use the push-up as a force for good in curbing America's rising obesity rate and alerting the populace to an effective and inexpensive exercise option for recessionary times.

"People living on the lower income don't have the luxury of personal trainers, gym memberships, supplements and flex machines this is free and portable," Skup said in an interview. "You come home from work and got to take kids to basketball or swim practice. In the real world, you don't have time to drive to the gym, spend two hours there on a complete workout. Life doesn't work like that."

So Skup weaned himself from the gym and started doing push-ups during breaks at work, at home, at the mall any time he could fit in five minutes or so.

"After a year, I looked in the mirror and saw I looked just as good as I did when I lifted weights," he says. "It's like being in a health club and doing everything at once. It's the most portable exercise ever invented."

Conrad, the Body Tribe owner, says push-ups are a core part of "a medley of exercises I give to people when they're traveling and can't get to a gym." (Others include squats and yoga moves.)

Even if you have access to a gym full of fancy machines, the push-up trumps even something as basic as the bench press.

Trainer Alwyn Cosgrove, in Men's Fitness magazine, recently wrote, "A guy shouldn't even attempt to pick up a dumbbell until he can handle his own body weight. Most guys don't realize how tough body weight-only training really is. I'm continually amazed by how many people I meet who can bench press a very heavy load but can't complete 10 good push-ups."

Conrad, who often trains personal trainers, says many weightlifters don't show push-ups the proper respect.

"The other day, I was working with this one guy (who) loves working chests," Conrad says. "I told him, 'I know you love your bench press and dumbbell press, but it's not helping your performance much. We're going to do nothing but push-ups today.' He said, 'OK, but then I'm going to go do some iron stuff.' I said, 'We'll see.'

"We ended up doing 45 minutes of push-up variations and he can barely move the next day. He touched his pecs and goes, 'Ow.' I love hauling iron but, frankly, with push-ups, your body weight with all the variations is plenty, whether it's for vanity or performance."

Many variations of the standard push-up exist. Body position determines the emphasis on a particular muscle group. For instance, if one's hands are set closer than the shoulder width, the triceps receive a greater workout.

Other popular variations include, from easiest to hardest, the modified push-up (knees, rather than toes, supporting your weight), the incline push-up (hands braced on the wall or bench) and the decline push-up (feet elevated on a bench).

Conrad often combines standard push-ups with yoga moves for hybrid exercises that tax the body more. But he also is a big proponent of the regular old push-up.

"I think slower push-ups, where you want to be like a table top, teach postural concepts so that you can know your proprioception (an inner sense of the position of your body parts)," Conrad says. "More explosive push-ups are great for sports performance, where you need to turn everything on quickly. You can change your body positioning in a push-up, too, steal some things from yoga."

Yet for the common man, the iconic, straight-backed position suffices.

Robert Boggs, a 68-year-old Elk Grove man, read Skup's push-up manifesto last year and decided to make the exercise the cornerstone of his fitness routine.

"I've tried weight and jogging and so forth, but I've found this is addictive," says Boggs, who does about 300 to 500 push-ups a day. "It's a refreshing approach. You aren't killing yourself, but you're working your whole body."

And the mind, according to Skup.

"It keeps my sanity," says the man who's done in excess of 11 million push-ups, "It centers me. Keeps the aggression down. Keeps everything in check. It's a perfect time to reflect on your past, contemplate the present and future."

TIPS ON PROPER PUSH-UP FORM

* When pushing away from the floor, focus on using your arms and keeping your body in a straight line throughout the movement. Avoid lifting your buttocks higher than your hips or hunching your neck and shoulders. Go slowly and exhale on the upward phase of the exercise.

* Don't allow your chest to actually touch the floor when you come down. Instead, stop the downward portion of the movement when your chest is 2 to 3 inches away from the floor. This will protect your shoulders and still provide plenty of range of motion to make the exercise effective. Try placing a book, a rolled-up towel or a tennis shoe under your chest to remind you when to stop lowering your body during the exercise.

* If you are unable to complete a full push-up, execute the exercise from your knees and/or place your hands on the edge of a sofa or bench (instead of the floor). These positions will make it less challenging, and allow you to build your strength over time. Then progress to a traditional push-up when you are able to complete eight to 12 repetitions of this easier version of the exercise.

* If push-ups bother your wrists, try holding on to small dumbbells on the floor instead of placing your hands directly on the floor. The dumbbells will allow you to straighten your wrists and minimize pressure on them while doing the exercise.

* Though push-ups can strengthen several muscle groups, it is important to do some exercises that emphasize the "pulling" muscles, such as pull-ups, pull-downs or rowing exercises. This will ensure balanced upper-body strength.

Jay Blahnik, Los Angeles Times

WOMAN'S WEEK AT THE GYM

Here is a funny story about a summary of a “WOMAN'S WEEK AT THE GYM”. I know I can relate to the mental battle a morphed attitude as things get tough.

WOMAN'S WEEK AT THE GYM

If you read this without laughing out loud, there is something wrong with you. This is dedicated to everyone who ever attempted to get into a regular workout routine.

Dear Diary,
For my birthday this year, my daughter (the dear) purchased a week of personal training at the local health club for me.

Although I am still in great shape since being a high school football cheerleader 43 years ago, I decided it would be a good idea to go ahead and give it a try.

I called the club and made my reservations with a personal trainer named Belinda, who identified herself as a 26-year-old aerobics instructor and model for athletic clothing and swim wear.

My daughter seemed pleased with my enthusiasm to get started! The club encouraged me to keep a diary to chart my progress.
_____________________________
MONDAY:
Started my day at 6:00 a.m. Tough to get out of bed, but found it was well worth it when I arrived at the health club to find Belinda waiting for me. She is something of a Greek goddess - with blond hair, dancing eyes and a dazzling white smile.
Woo Hoo!!

Belinda gave me a tour and showed me the machines. I enjoyed watching the skillful way in which she conducted her aerobics class after my workout today. Very inspiring!

Belinda was encouraging as I did my sit-ups, although my gut was already aching from holding it in the whole time she was around. This is going to be a FANTASTIC week-!!
__________________________
TUESDAY:

I drank a whole pot of coffee, but I finally made it out the door. Belinda made me lie on my back and push a heavy iron bar into the air then she put weights on it! My legs were a little wobbly on the treadmill, but I made the full mile. Belinda's rewarding smile made it all worthwhile. I feel GREAT-!! It's a whole new life for me.
_______________________________
WEDNESDAY:
The only way I can brush my teeth is by laying the toothbrush on the counter and moving my mouth back and forth over it. I believe I have a hernia in both pectorals.. Driving was OK as long as I didn't try to steer or stop. I parked on top of a GEO in the club parking lot.

Belinda was impatient with me, insisting that my screams bothered other club members. Her voice is a little too perky for that early in the morning and when she scolds, she gets this nasally whine that is VERY annoying.

My chest hurt when I got on the treadmill, so Belinda put me on the stair monster. Why the heck would anyone invent a machine to simulate an activity rendered obsolete by elevators? Belinda told me it would help me get in shape and enjoy life. She said some other crap too.
_______________________________
THURSDAY:

Belinda was waiting for me with her vampire-like teeth exposed as her thin, cruel lips were pulled back in a full snarl. I couldn't help being a half an hour late - it took me that long to tie my shoes. Belinda took me to work out with dumbbells. When she was not looking, I ran and hid in the restroom. She sent another skinny witch to find me. Then, as punishment, she put me on the rowing machine -- which I sank.

____________________
FRIDAY:
I hate that witch Belinda more than any human being has ever hated any other human being in the history of the world. Stupid, skinny, anemic, anorexic little cheerleader. If there was a part of my body I could move without unbearable pain, I would beat her with it.

Belinda wanted me to work on my triceps. I don't have any triceps! And if you don't want dents in the floor, don't hand me the stupid barbells or anything that weighs more than a sandwich.

The treadmill flung me off and I landed on a health and nutrition teacher. Why couldn't it have been someone softer, like the drama coach or the choir director?
________________________________
SATURDAY:

Belinda left a message on my answering machine in her grating, shrilly voice wondering why I did not show up today. Just hearing her voice made me want to smash the machine with my planner; however, I lacked the strength to even use the TV remote and ended up catching eleven straight hours of the Weather Channel.
________________________________
SUNDAY:

I'm having the Church van pick me up for services today so I can go and thank GOD that this week is over. I will also pray that next year my daughter (the little brat) will choose a gift for me that is fun -- like a root canal or a hysterectomy. I still say if God had wanted me to bend over, he would have sprinkled the floor with diamonds!!!