Saturday, December 31, 2011

Here are some great tips to help you stick with your Resolution, once and for all!

I am currently reading an amazing book called The Compound Effect, by Darren Hardy.  There is a section that is very relevant to the steps many people are taking today to make changes, both big and small, to their lives starting on January 1st! Take a quick read:

Finding your Mojo - Your why-power (p.61)

Assuming willpower is what you need to change your habits is akin to trying to keep a hungry grizzly bear out of your picnic basket by covering it with a napkin.  To fight the fear of your bad habits, you need something stronger.
When you're having trouble doing the hard work of achieving your goals, it's common to believe you simply lack willpower.  I disagree.  It's not enough to choose to be successful.  What's going to keep you consistent with the new positive choices you need to make?  What's going to stop you from falling back into your mindless habits?  What's going to be different this time versus the times you've tried and failed before?  As soon as you get the slightest bit uncomfortable, you're going to be tempted to slide back into your old, comfortable routine.
You've tried willpower before and it's failed you.  You've set resolutions and you've let them go.  You thought you were going to lose all that weight last time.  You thought you'd "fill in the blank" last year.  Let's "stop the insanity" and do something different so you can get different and better results. 
Forget about willpower.  It's time for why-power.  Your choices are only meaningful when you connect them to your desires and dreams.  The wisest and most motivating choices are the ones aligned with that which you identify as your purpose, your core self, and your highest values.  You've got to want something, and know why you want it, or you'll end up giving up too easily.
So, what is your why?  You've got to have a reason if you want to make significant improvements in your life.  And to make you want to make the necessary changes, your why must be something that is fantastically motivating - to you.  You've got tot want to get up and go, go, go, go, go, go - for years!  So, what is it that moves you the most?  Identifying your why is critical.  What motivates you is the ignition to your passion, the source for your enthusiasm, and the fuel of your persistence.  You MUST know your why.

Upon reading this I understand why I haven't reached some of my goals in the past.  A recurring one to me has been to achieve 6-pack abs... every time I make progress I hear the lack of support (why do you need to get fitter, just one bite won't hurt...), I miss out on the treats and I reconsider my sacrifices as really, I am healthy and at a good weight... BUT I never reach that goal I have had for a few years now!  My other recurring goal is to get more organized, but I get it confused with not prioritizing my kids and my husband first as it is not a quick fix... in reality, getting more organized will allow me more time for them... I just have to buckle down and be consistent!!!

What have I come up with?  My children!  I was an overweight teenager who could have excelled at many sports, adventures and even social situations, BUT I was held back by not knowing how I could achieve more, by what I needed to do.  I plan to set goals with my children this year then to achieve those goals to model how you can (and should) finish at what you set out to do.  My children are only 6 and 8 so I plan to help them make small goals regarding sports, school and behavior!

I am looking forward to an exciting and successful 2012!


Thursday, December 29, 2011

let's reach your resolutions... together!!!

Ahhhh, the last week in December and it is time to think about what changes you are going to make for the New Year!!!  Like many people you may be considering losing a few pounds, improving your health, cutting back on the sweets...  Well there are many options on how you can make this work so consider these numbers:
Send me a message to get going on your New Year's Resolutions! 
Let's make it a transformational 2012!!!

Take a look at this video for a little motivation, sign up for free on my Beachbody site at www.GetFitWithNicola.com and lets find out what we need to get you rolling!



Tuesday, December 13, 2011

40 Healthy Holiday Gifts

My Christmas wish list:

Holiday shopping can be stressful. Between driving all over town, long lines in crowded stores, and the never-ending holiday music, it's enough to make you want to throw up your hands and exclaim, "Bah humbug!"  The biggest advantage of buying Beachbody programs through a coach rather than through the infomercials or Amazon... you get at least one free workout in addition to those that come with your program, plus I can add you to an accountability group to help you stay on track and I am here to help you out whenever you need it!!!

Let us help. We've put together a list of 40 Beachbody® gift ideas that will help make those in your life feel not only happy, but also healthy! We divided the gifts by price-point so you can simply decide how much you wish to spend on someone and choose from several suggestions that are within that range. All items are available online, so take off that winter jacket, grab a glass of Shakeology®, and knock out your holiday shopping quickly and with the confidence that the gifts you're giving will enrich the lives of those who receive them!

Plus, Club members automatically save 10% off all items on TeamBeachbody.com.

How to find out if you’re a Beachbody VIP Club member?
1. Make sure you are logged in to TeamBeachbody. If you’re not logged in, click on the "Sign In" link in the upper right hand corner of this page.
2. Click on the "Shop" tab in the upper navigation menu.
3. Scroll down to look at the price for Shakeology. You'll see "Regular Price: $119.95". But, if you're a Team Beachbody VIP Club Member you'll also see "Your price: $107.95." That's a savings of $12.00 or 10%!

If you’re not a Team Beachbody VIP Club member, consider joining now. If you plan on purchasing 3 or 4 Holiday gifts on TeamBeachbody.com, the savings you get could more than cover the 3-month membership fee. Learn more, and sign up for Club.

9 gifts $25 or less


  • Tony and the Folks ($9.95) – Tony Horton’s name is synonymous with P90X, but this low-impact DVD is perfect for parents, grandparents, or anyone who is looking for a low-impact workout.
  • Tony and the Kids ($9.95) – Trying to get your kids into fitness? Let them have some fun with Tony Horton in this entertaining DVD.
  • P90X T-Shirt ($19.95) – Do you know someone who just finished P90X? Congratulate them with this shirt! It’s also the perfect companion gift to P90X for someone who is just starting the program. 
  • TurboJam Camouflage Tank ($19.95) – If you know a gal who loves to Jam, help her to show her spirit with this flirty tank top that’s got just enough “Grrr!”
  • Shaun T's Fit Kids Club ($19.95) – Shaun T brings the fun in this DVD that is a great gift to get all the kids in your life interested in fitness for life!
  • Get Real with Shaun T ($19.95) – This DVD is great for tweens who aren’t old enough or ready for the intensity of INSANITY but who want to lose a few pounds.
  • Weighted Gloves ($19.95) – If someone you know is looking to tone up their arms, these weighted gloves add the resistance needed to help those on their way.
  • P90X Protein Bars ($23.95) – Instead of reaching for an unhealthy snack, these 12-packs of protein bars will help fuel your special someone in their workouts.
  • $25 Team Beachbody eGift Card – This holiday season, give someone the gift of fitness! With the $25 gift card we're starting to offer this holiday season, they’ll be able to purchase any of the gifts above or use it as a discount on one of the items below.
http://www.teambeachbody.com/shop/-/shopping/TJGetOnBall?referringRepId=35925

8 gifts $50 or less


  • Chin-Up Max ($29.85) – This adjustable chin-up tool is perfect for someone working his or her way up to full pull-ups. As they get stronger, they just reduce the resistance!
  • Total Body Solution® ($29.95) – Exercise isn’t just about losing pounds and inches. It’s also about feeling great and helping to prevent injuries. In this DVD, Debbie Siebers shows how the right exercises that can help heal injuries.
  • Slimming Formula ($29.95) – Help a friend or family-member get a powerful head start on their weight loss journey. Our unique blend of pyruvate and green tea extract is proven to help people significantly increase weight loss and improve exercise endurance.
  • Chalene Johnson's Get on the Ball ($39.90) – This gift includes a cool Turbo Ball – a secret weapon toward gaining a six-pack. For ripped, rock-hard abs and blazing fast results, Chalene Johnson’s program is top-notch.
  • B-Lines Bands ($39.95) – Got a frequent traveler on your fitness gift list? Just as effective as free weights in building muscle, these resistance bands are much more portable and convenient, so the recipient can work out anytime, anywhere.**
  • Tony Horton's Signature PowerStands ($39.90) – For the perfect push-up, these can’t be beat. They strengthen and sculpt while reducing the strain on wrists and forearms. Plus, they’re comfortable to grip and won’t budge in the middle of a move.
  • P90X Results and Recovery Formula® ($49.95) – This protein drink is perfect just after a P90X or INSANITY workout, and it’s great after any intense exercise session to help refuel your body and reduce muscle soreness so you can push just as hard the next day.
  • $50 Team Beachbody eGift Card – This holiday season, give someone the gift of fitness! With the gift card we're starting to offer this holiday season, they’ll be able to purchase any of the gifts above or use it as a discount on one of the items below.


6 gifts $75 or less


  • Brazil Butt Lift® ($59.85) – It’s not easy to get the perfect butt…unless you’ve got help from Leandro Carvalho, trainer to world-famous supermodels! Help that special someone prepare for a beachside getaway or just to look great every day in their favorite pair of jeans!
  • Hip Hop Abs® ($59.85) – Great for party people, hip-hop, and dance fans, this workout program will help sculpt their abs with fun moves rather than crunches.
  • Slim in 6® ($59.85) – In just six weeks, someone you know could reshape their body. Start them on the right path with this workout program that’s great for people of all fitness levels.
  • P90X Chin-Up Bar ($59.95) – Pull-ups and chin-ups are key to getting sculpted back, shoulder, and arm muscles. This portable bar lets you do all those great exercises.
  • TurboJam® ($59.85)– Raise someone’s heart rate with this kickboxing-inspired workout program from Chalene Johnson.
  • Bowflex Strapless Heart Rate Monitor ($74.85) – To see results, it’s important to make sure you’re working at the right intensity. This comfortable monitor will let the recipient do just that without needing to wear a chest strap.


6 gifts $100 or less


  • Body Gospel® ($79.70) – For someone who might want a little motivation from above, this faith-based workout program set to chart-topping gospel music will help them find their way.
  • Ten Minute Trainer® ($79.80) – Need a gift for the person who has no time but wants to get fit? These ten-minute-long workouts will fit into anyone’s schedule!
  • RevAbs ($89.85) – For someone who wants to get that sexy six-pack, this capoeira-influenced workout program from trainer Brett Hoebel is just the ticket.
  • ChaLEAN Extreme® ($89.95) – This workout program from TurboJam and TurboFire trainer Chalene Johnson is ideal for women who want to get toned.
  • INSANITY: THE ASYLUM® ($89.95) – For the INSANITY grad, this intense athletic conditioning will help them get into top shape in just 30 days.
  • $100 Team Beachbody eGift Card – This holiday season, give someone the gift of fitness! With the gift card we're starting to offer this holiday season, they’ll be able to purchase any of the gifts above or use it as a discount on one of the items below.


5 gifts $120 or less


  • Shakeology® ($119.95) – Help that special someone make a change to their eating habits by gifting them with a 30-day supply of Chocolate or Greenberry Shakeology, the Healthiest Meal of the Day®! They can enjoy it as a meal replacement or as a healthy, yummy snack. Each shake will help them increase energy, become more regular, lose weight, and feel great.
  • TurboFire® ($119.70) – Chalene Johnson’s intense kickboxing-inspired cardio conditioning program is great for anyone who is ready to bring the heat to their workout.
  • P90X® ($119.85) – Do you know someone who wants to transform their physique with Tony Horton’s revolutionary program? Get them P90X, and they’ll thank you 90 days later!
  • P90X2™ Base Kit ($119.85) – If you know a P90X grad who is looking for the next great muscle-building workout, pick them up P90X2 for the holidays!
  • INSANITY® ($119.95) – For the ultimate in cardio conditioning, Shaun T’s workout is perfect for people who are ready to transform their bodies in just 60 days.


6 Ultimate Gifts


  • P90X One-on-One® ($239.40) – If someone you know wishes they had Tony Horton as their personal trainer, pick them up any volume of this DVD set and they can learn from Tony as he works out in his own gym!
  • INSANITY Deluxe with Mat and Bonus Workout ($239.70) – If someone on your list is hoping for INSANITY this year, why not get them this deluxe version that comes with a mat, a body fat tester, and an extra workout?
  • TurboFire: The Complete System ($239.40) – This version of TurboFire is the perfect gift pack. It comes with everything, including weighted gloves, B-Line resistance bands**, a jump mat, and five advanced workouts.
  • $250 Team Beachbody eGift Card – This holiday season, give someone the gift of fitness! With the gift card we're staring to offer this holiday season, they’ll be able to purchase almost any of the gifts on our list.
  • P90X2 Ultimate ($299.95) – This version of P90X2 includes two additional workouts, the Tony Horton PowerStands, a RumbleRoller, and two Medicine Balls**!
  • $500 Team Beachbody eGift Card – This holiday season, give someone the gift of fitness! With the gift card we're starting to offer this holiday season they’ll be able to purchase any of the gifts on our list and more.

** Contains natural rubber latex which can cause allergic reactions

Join the Beachbody challenge to help reach your fitness goals!!!  Watch this video!

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Planning for 2012

Yes, it is only the first week of December and I am already thinking about January!!!  I am going to enjoy every second of December as it is my favorite month of the year, but I know what comes about on January 1st... New Year's Resolutions!!!
Have you been putting off starting that new workout plan?  Delaying the DIET so you don't mess with your favorite holiday foods?  You could start now and take baby steps!!!  Don't cut out all of your favorites, but maybe don't overindulge quite as much as usual!!!  Go for some walks with the family over the holidays in between meals!!!
In preparation for those inevitable Resolutions I would love to offer some assistance though!
Read on if you can answer yes to any of the following questions:
  • Are you competitive?  
  • Do you like to plan for your success?
  • Do you like to succeed at something you begin?
  • Do you like to have fun?
  • Do you really want to lose weight and keep it off?
OK... did I get at least one yes?  If not then you are not ready to take on a fitness challenge... go get your gym membership, go irregularly for one month then pay your monthly dues while not going until your contract is up.  Sorry, was that too harsh?  In all seriousness, that is what 90% of people do who join a gym on January 1st!

Join me, make a commitment, be part of an accountability group with friends and family OR let me put you with a group of people doing the same or similar program and lets knock this thing out of the ball park!!!

Head to www.GetFitWithNicola.com, click on the Take the Challenge tab on the right side of the page and check out the Beachbody Challenge.  You commit to drinking Shakeology every day (I recommend replacing breakfast, lunch or a snack), following a Beachbody workout program (you can even get the P90X iPhone app if you really want to be at the gym), and Beachbody will include your first month of the club membership meal planning for free.
So are you ready to set your start date?  I am taking names for my January 2nd Challenge start date so grab a friend, spouse, cousin... choose your program and lets get your spot saved!!!
If you need a little more inspiration at what can be accomplished... check out some of the success stories on the Beachbody site AND watch The Biggest Loser next Tuesday!!!

Learn more about the Beachbody challenge in the video below!!!



Monday, December 5, 2011

must get my workout done...

Its Monday morning, my weekend was busy, my house is chilly and I didn't get to watch Desperate Housewives last night!  I have office work to catch up on, my carpets need vacuuming, my couch looks inviting but I have a VERY important task that needs to be completed NOW so it doesn't get overlooked.... my workout!  Seriously.  Getting my shorts and tank top on is tough when it is cold out. Thank goodness I don't need to go out into the cold, just into my living room to press play in ChaLEAN extreme, but it is still cold in my shorts!!!
I have lightened up on myself this month... not getting upset if I can't squeeze my workouts in every day as adding stress to lighten my stress kind of backfires!  I am following the schedule for my workouts just sometimes having to push the schedule back a day when life gets in the way.  What is most important for me now is staying healthy through the holidays.  Getting enough sleep, keeping my stress levels down, eating healthy (most of the time), and getting a good workout in at least 3 times/ week!
There are a lot of temptations around every corner... yes, I enjoy some of them, just not every day and not too much!  I don't starve myself before a meal to allow for the extra calories, I eat sensibly leading up to the meal so I don't overindulge.
Enjoy sensibly.  Live for health.  Be a role model for your children and family.

Looking to add some healthy choices to your eating this holiday season?  Try new fruits and veggies!  Load these on your plate BEFORE the potatoes and other sides!!!  If it is fried, smothered in cheese or extra crispy... just have a bite if you must, but not a whole plate full!  If it grows it is probably better for you than something out of a package on the shelf!  Stay tuned for some great recipes this month!
www.GetFitWithNicola.com


Sunday, December 4, 2011

It's the holiday season...

and our Christmas cards are heading to be printed! Every year we have the card debate... folded or flat... photo card or not. Yes, folded cards look more formal, can be set out for people to view and I do prefer, BUT they also cost twice as much as a flat photo card. If you want to save the photos, the flat card is easiest to save... most people throw them out either way so maybe saving the money is the key! This year we went for flat photo... next year be ready for a fancy folded card ;) Our photo always takes a few photo sessions and some bribes for good behavior so thank goodness putting them together is so dang easy now!
Here is a preview of our card from Shutterfly, and MERRY CHRISTMAS :)
Photo Card
View the entire collection of cards.

Monday, November 21, 2011

The Holiday Season is upon us!!!

I love this time of year!  I love getting together with family and friends, I love hearing all of the things my children are thankful for, I love decorating the house and the yard, I love singing along with Christmas carols, I love seeing my children's eyes light up with excitement about celebrating Jesus' Birthday and that Santa is coming, I love the yummy smells, I love the food!!!!
What don't I like?  The tightness of my clothes after I have overindulged too many days in a row, my sore stomach from eating and drinking too much of that yummy food and cleaning up dried pine needles from the floor!

I think the LIKES outweigh the DISLIKES!  PLUS I have a plan to make that even better this year, and no, I am not getting a fake tree!!!  I am planning for success!!!

My love to eat... there are not many foods I do not enjoy (although I am not too fond of greasiness so I am fortunate there).  I need to be aware of food that I consume, I need to be make sure I don't get so hungry I blow my plan, I need to make sure I support my goals and don't waste the time exercising for silly choices.  Do I plan to avoid all of my favorite seasonal treats?  NO WAY!!!

MY PLANS and SUGGESTIONS FOR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON:
  • Eat slowly and be aware of portions!
  • Make sure there are healthy choices - if I need to ask the host/ hostess then I will... I can always offer to bring a veggie plate if need be!
  • Load up my plates on veggies... NOT creamy veggies, but steamed, grilled or roasted will be top choices.
  • Make some new traditions.  There are a TON of great recipes out there that lighten up our favorite foods.  Hold back on the butter, the oil and the grease.... cut out some of that sugar... add some skim milk to your egg nog.... and add a family walk or other "moving" activity to your Thanksgiving day!
  • Do not starve myself to "save" my calories for the feast!  I am more likely to gorge because I am so dang hungry, and if there are appetizers I will more likely to eat all of the cheese platter or nut bowl and be too bloated for dinner anyways!  Maybe I will watch my calories a little more closely during the day but going into a high calorie meal starving will only set me up for disaster!!!
  • I enjoy baking and holiday treats so I will bake but I will also share my baked goods!  Some for me and my family, some for gifts... we can all benefit!
  • I will not stand by the buffet table and chat with friends while I nibble.  I will put food on my plate and move away while I chat so I am not as tempted to refill, or at least know how many times I do refill!  
  • I will make good choices with my drinks.  Avoiding high calorie drinks or lightening them up... and making sure I drink lots of water to keep myself hydrated!!!
My goal is to not gain a single pound this holiday season.  In fact, I still have 3 pounds to lose to reach my end of the year goal... so I guess I better work hard to keep my focus on my goals!

If you are interested in joining my December Challenge group we are gearing up to start Shakeology, a fitness program and plan out our meals so we can fight the holiday bulge!  I won't beat you up for making some seasonal choices BUT I will help you make some better decisions and stay accountable to your goals.  Join me at www.GetFitWithNicola.com and let me know what your goals are!

Thursday, November 10, 2011

what about the kids?

Can you believe that 43.8% of local children (of those surveyed) in Kern County are overweight or obese?  That astounds me!  Children are built to run and play and burn calories.  They have natural instincts to stop eating when they are full and they can even survive without dessert some days!!!  What is wrong here? 
I think back to when I was young and there weren't many overweight kids.  BUT I was one of the few!  I grew tall early so I probably needed a lot of food and I was eating with my older brother and my dad so I was offered a lot of food.  When I reached almost 6 feet and stopped growing up... I started growing out!  A few reasons for this that I can think of.  My parents were divorced, my dad worked and I came home after school, sat on the couch and watched TV and ate peanut butter on white bread!  It had to be the sugary kind too!  We would beg my dad for McDonalds so that was our treat dinner.  My dad was fairly fit and never had a weight problem, my brother was a football player and needed to keep pretty solid so the house was stocked with yummy food and I had free range.  ----> Lack of activity, lack of supervision, lack of education on food/ calories/ portion control, busy schedules!
This is an issue with many families today!  The only detail that cannot be changed by many families is the busy schedule.  Jobs and life don't allow much extra time... unless of course you cancel cable and video games for some people!  We can get our children more active - which does take time but it is vital to their health!  We can also help them understand the importance of being aware of what they eat!  Not nit picking the calories and worrying about every pound on the scale, but being aware of healthy foods that we can eat more of and unhealthy foods that we should eat less of.  If your kids have an insatiable sweet tooth.... limit what you have on hand for them to help themselves to.  Eat at meal times and one snack in the morning, one in the afternoon.  Once dinner is over, the kitchen is shut until breakfast!  These should be house rules for everyone!!!
Your kids are watching you!  If you are sneaking candy at 10pm, they will know!  If you are not getting any exercise, they will see!  Be a great role model and your whole family will benefit!

I would love to help you brainstorm on how you could bring better nutrition and more activity into your families lifestyle!!!  Please contact me or go to my website.  You can also find me on Facebook - just send me a message why you are requesting to be my friend :)

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Life is too short NOT to be healthy!!!

Exercise is hard work!  Lots of things are hard work!  Exercise though is imperative to good health and longevity!  The bright side... exercise can be fun!  You just need to find the exercise that you enjoy!
Anything that moves your body, offers some resistance, raises your heart rate... work a little harder and longer at it and you can register it as a workout! Gardening, mowing, dancing, even dog walks!  Calorie burning is calorie burning!  Some people do fancy workouts at the gym, some use DVDs, some play their Wii... you just need to find something, or a combo of things that work for you and DO IT!!!!

The other important detail is calories!  Life is too short NOT to enjoy that cupcake and that glass of wine... yes and no!  Totally depriving yourself can be a pathway to disaster and uncontrollable splurging!  BUT moderation, limiting and setting yourself up for success is vital to making any forward progress!  If you don't say no to the occasional treat or the daily glass of wine at times, chances are you are never going to burn more calories than you take in and you won't see any changes on that scale!  I bet you don't even know how many calories you eat on a daily basis!  and I bet it is more than you would guess!!!

My favorite tools for losing a few pounds:
  • Get an accountability buddy!  If you have someone, or a group of people, who you workout with, talk about your workouts with or just keep up with on FB, you are setting yourself up for success!  You are less likely to give up if you have a friend rooting for you or even better... depending on you :)
  • Food journaling.  If you write down every bite you put into your mouth, you are going to rethink that little candy bar from the Halloween bucket and that half of a PB&J sandwich your kid didn't finish!  Just the idea of writing it down can be a diet assistant ;)
  • Set yourself up for success! If there is a food that you just cannot pass up... don't go near it!  Do NOT buy it for your kids and plan to not have any... we all have our weak moments so why risk the temptation. Surely your kids like some things that you aren't crazy about... so get those instead!
  • Eat breakfast!  Studies show that people who eat a healthy meal early in the day set themselves up for success.  You are less likely to grab something unhealthy on the run or at the coffee shop and you will have more energy!
  • Schedule your workouts so they are non negotiable!  Just like a doctor or dentist appointment!!!  Also, if you plan them for first thing in the morning you are less likely to get too busy!!!
  • Find workouts that you enjoy!  If you like to Dance, try Hip Hop Abs, Turbo Jam or TurboFire; if you are hard core you will LOVE Insanity; if you want to get ripped, how about P90X or P90X2; limited for time, try 10 Minute Trainer; if you are just starting out and want to work your way in, try Slim in 6, Power 90, ChaLEAN Extreme plus many more!
I have a Fitness Challenge under way with workouts, Shakeology and meal planning.  I also have an accountability group so you can benefit from the momentum of others and share your own story!  I would love to help you reach your fitness goals... you just need to take the first step and decide to go for it!!!

Learn more about the Challenge here:

Friday, October 21, 2011

What's the Beachbody Challenge?

What’s The Beachbody Challenge?

The Beachbody ChallengeIt’s a health and fitness transformation competition. Commit to get fit and share the results you achieve with any Beachbody® program. You’ll automatically get a free wristband, a free T-shirt, or BOTH! If your transformation is selected as the BEST in your age and gender category (18 – 29, 30 – 39, 40 – 49, 50+) you could win up to $100,000! Ready to win?
I will be personally coaching a Challenge Team made up of five individuals that are taking the Beachbody Challenge.  Please CONTACT ME if you are interested in participating with my team.  I will send you all the details.  If you already have a fitness program in mind, let me know that as well.  I’m going to try and pair people together that are doing the same program.  People in my Challenge Team Groups will commit to:
  • Following a Beachbody fitness program
  • Drinking Shakeology on a daily basis
  • Learning basic nutritional theory and eating to fuel your body for workouts and recovery - we will work off the nutrition guide with your program or preferable a tailored plan available to Club Members on the Beachbody site (also gives you 10% off products)
  • Posting daily accountability in a private Facebook group viewable only by members of the Challenge Team
  • FINISHING!  This isn’t about starting, it is about finishing!
You do not need to be on a Challenge Team to participate in the Beachbody Challenge.  The Challenge is open to everyone.  What we are offering with the Challenge Teams is an added measure of accountability and personal coaching.  We have used the concept of Challenge Teams for several years now and we’ve found that the people participating have much better odds of success.



Here’s how to enter:

STEP 1: COMMIT TO GET FIT — get a FREE WRISTBAND

Tell us which fitness program you plan to follow, state your goals, and start tracking your progress. You’ll want to take a “before” photo to remember what you looked like and submit your results when you’re finished. For making this simple commitment, we’ll send you a FREE WRISTBAND.
(It’s okay to skip step 1 if you’re already in shape and want to submit your fitness results.)

STEP 2: SUBMIT YOUR RESULTS — get a FREE T-SHIRT

Got results from your Beachbody program? It’s time to submit your transformation story. Send us your “before” and “after” photos, transformation stats, and tell us your story. We’ll give you a FREE T-SHIRT and you’ll have a chance to win additional prizes.

YOU CAN WIN up to $100,000!

If your entry is selected as the top transformation in your age and gender category for the month in which you entered, you’ll win $1,000 and a shot at the Grand Prize.
Plus you’ll have a chance to win:
  • Daily Prizes: $500 just for logging your workouts in the WOWY SuperGym® after you commit to get fit or submit your results.
  • Quarterly Prizes: $5,000 and an expenses-paid trip
  • Bonus prizes for drinking Shakeology® during your transformation.
Ready to WIN? Enter now.
The Beachbody Challenge 2011 – 2012 Official Contest Rules:

Monthly Contest Rules

Quarterly Contest Rules

Grand Prize Contest Rules

FAQ

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

How to Compare Shakeology

The Big Shake-Off: Like Comparing Apples and… Tang

Shared from Carl Daikeler's blog www.carldaikeler.com

October 18th, 2011

How To Compare Shakeology
Or, “How Do I Really Know If This is Worth the Money When Everything Else Costs Less?”
There are many “protein shakes” and meal replacements that are less expensive than Shakeology. But  comparisons – based on the simple “protein shake” or even “health shake” are usually off the mark because of intangibles like quality of sourcing, efficacy, and the delicate balance of incredible health benefits and delicious flavor that is unique to Shakeology.
When we developed Shakeology, our goal was to fill a void in the marketplace where the benefits of the shake would live up to the promise of the line “The Healthiest Meal of the Day.”  Shakeology was designed for people who want more than protein, and for people who really expect  the health benefits being represented by the ingredients on the label. With Shakeology not only do you get what you pay for, but because it tastes so good and the attention to every detail is so complete, you get more than you pay for.
To really know whether a product measures up to Shakeology, you need to keep some things in mind:

How Much is “Enough”?
We are proud of Shakeology’s 70+ ingredients. Other shakes will trumpet the number of ingredients they have too. But are the ingredients they are counting actually good for you?
Are they derived from whole food sources? They are in Shakeology! Too often the “magic ingredient” has been isolated from the enzymes and phytonutrients which actually are what is needed to make the “magic ingredient” effective when consumed.
And does the competition formulate for the synergistic benefits between the ingredients, or just slap together whatever is hot in the media? Shakeology was specially formulated for the collection of ingredients to work together like a symphony; this combination is so effective some people report dramatic benefits within the first week. We’re not just talking about weight loss here, we’re talking meaningful health benefits; regularity, energy, vitality!
Other supplements point to one or two individual ingredients and build a “story” around their super food attributes…  that’s like saying you can put Michael Jordan on a team of amateurs and still have a championship caliber team. Shakeology’s specially selected ingredients work like the dream team, all working together so YOU get the health benefits from the healthiest meal of the day.

Vanilla?
If the shake you’re considering is vanilla, how do they achieve vanilla flavoring? Our research indicates that it is impossible for the superfoods, adaptogen herbs, anti-oxidants, phytonutrients and digestive enzymes to co-exist and taste good in a vanilla flavor, unless the vanilla flavor is achieved chemically and artificially. (It’s the “dirty little secret” of the flavoring industry even though labeling guidelines still allow this artificial flavoring  to be called “natural vanilla flavoring”) Other companies are willing to use that labeling loophole for their benefit. But not Shakeology.
So here’s the question; are you drinking the shake so you can enjoy vanilla, or so you can get the incredible health benefits from a shake that doesn’t taste like a “health drink”? We call Shakeology “the healthiest meal of the day” for a reason, and we plan on doing what it takes to live up to that.

Protein:
When it comes to comparing protein quality, you need to look closely to see the truth:
“Say NO to soy”
Does the competition use ANY soy in their formulation? Soy protein contains estrogen-mimicking compounds that can interfere with your hormones, and on top of that most of the soy in the marketplace is GMO (genetically modified), two important reasons why we don’t use soy in Shakeology.
It is our general opinion that many people are consuming too much soy in the pursuit of health – and thus perhaps producing too much estrogen which can cause many adverse issues in the body.  Do a little research of your own on the topic, and you will be as shocked as we are at what you will learn about soy.
Likewise, if a company is promoting that their protein is “more absorbable”, be careful. Protein sources like Whey Protein Hydrolysate have been shown to trigger a much higher insulin response in the body. That’s not an outcome we would tolerate in any health shake, much less Shakeology.
Our protein source is whey protein isolate, which is more than 90 percent pure protein. Plus, Shakeology is loaded with digestive enzymes-and lactase, that’s the enzyme that breaks down lactose and is found in over-the-counter products like Lactaid®.  Don’t confuse whey protein concentrate with “isolate”. Whey protein concentrate is the least pure form of whey protein made. The benefits of “isolate” vs. “concentrate” is that the fat has been removed to achieve “isolate”. The fat in whey protein is what carries toxins consumed by the animal. That’s the reason Shakeology can be used by so many people who are lactose-intolerant – because those toxins have been removed through the isolate process.
We also look at the source of every single protein batch that shows up at the manufacturer.  If we find the manufacturer is cutting a corner by bringing in protein from farms that use hormones or are ok feeding inorganic materials to their cattle, we tell them to find another source.  This is the kind of scrutiny that other companies just don’t give their product, and it’s the kind of attention to detail which doesn’t show on the label. (But it does show in how you feel when you consume the product over the long term!)

Glycemic index tested…
In terms of sugar, many protein shakes have 1g of sugar or less. This is because they are using artificial chemical sweeteners (check the label for sucralose, aspartame, or sugar alcohols). Shakeology’s small amounts of sugar comes from natural sources which are easily processed by the body and in fact has been tested and certified by an independent lab to have a Low Glycemic Index of 24 – that’s lower than most fruits (an apple is 36 and an orange is 43)!
What is not in the base, they may suggest you add later:
Other shakes don’t cost as much as Shakeology at first glance, but they also don’t contain the full profile of  vitamins and minerals or whole-food sources of anti-oxidants, phytonutrients, adaptogen herbs, prebiotics, probiotics or digestive enzymes. We’ve seen competitors make you buy a separate vitamin pack for $150 per month! And if you want chocolate flavoring you have to buy a separate flavor packet for an extra $25 a month. If you want metabolism boosting effects and appetite control, you have to buy 2 additional products at $50 each. Once you add it up, this is hardly a “good deal” and it is usually questionably healthy..
To achieve the benefits of Shakeology we’ve seen competitors charge between $250 and $335 per month! $120 doesn’t seem expensive when you realize all of the benefits Shakeology delivers.

SUMMARY:
Formula: 70+ of the healthiest ingredients from whole food sources from around the world (including anti-oxidants, phytonutrients, adaptogen herbs, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, vitamins and minerals VS. protein, fillers, artificial coloring, and isolated glamour ingredients
Winner: Shakeology

Protein Source: Shakeology’s 15g of pure whey protein isolate plus 2g from plant sources VS soy, hydrolyzed whey and/or whey concentrate blend.
Winner: Shakeology


Taste: Rich chocolate or greenberry Shakeology Vs. chemically derived artificial-flavored competition?
Winner: Shakeology

Price: $120 for Shakeology  VS. Oops! It’s impossible to compare lesser formulations on price. But if you add in all the separate vitamins and flavoring agents the other companies ask you to buy to (try and) match the benefits and nutritional content of Shakeology, you would easily spend over $300 every month – that’s  2 ½ times the cost of Shakeology!  Sure, chocolate milk is cheaper than Shakeology. A vanilla soy shake can be cheaper than Shakeology – until you try to add what Shakeology’s got, and match what Shakeology can do for you, and then it’s no contest.
Winner: Shakeology

The best comparison is results. From weight loss and reduction in cravings, to regularity, to healthier cholesterol levels, to energy, to an overall sense of well being… We give a bottom-of-the-bag money-back guarantee on Shakeology because we KNOW people will be amazed at how they feel. Shakeology is the winner by a total knock out!
Speaking of knock outs, check out Katie F.’s full Shakeology success story here on Thursday!




Ask me more about Shakeology and how it can work for you at www.myshakeology.com/nicolabx











Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Pushing yourself gets results

Just over a week ago I ran in and placed second in my age group in a local mud run called the Volkslauf.  It is termed "the Ultimate Challenge", designed as a Marine course, put on by volunteers with proceeds going to local charities. You can select a 5K or a 10K race when you sign up!  I have run the 10K 3 times but this year decided to opt for the 5K for two reasons.  One, my daughter's soccer team had a 10:45 game and I am the coach :); Two, I didn't do much training for this event!

What... no training?  Well, this isn't entirely true as I did throw in a few runs with my dog over the last month and a half.  How then did I do so well?  I do exercise 5-6 days a week.  I am currently following the program ChaLEAN Extreme which involves a lot of strength training, plus I get a big dose of cardio in my weekly Turbo Kick class!  Apparently my regular workouts count as some pretty serious training!

I really pushed myself on my run.  After I waited in line to get over the first obstacle I realized that I would get to rest before every obstacle due to the crowds!  So I ran a great run!  I launched into the mud pits and offered help/ accepted help getting over all of the bigger obstacles... plus I managed a few on my own!

A key thing I learned in past years is that you are not finished until you cross the finish line!!!  There were 3 others within one minute of my time and I bet we were all getting out of the mud pit at the same time and they stopped for a photo op ;)  Don't get me wrong, the completing the Volkslauf is accomplishment enough and shows you have achieved a good level of fitness, but after running it a few times you set your goals a little higher!

On that note I think I will train next year!!!  Getting to the front of the pack from the run would clear congestion for the obstacles... a partner in crime would be handy to help get over the obstacles... who is in?  Next October I am going to crack that 48 minute time down to hmmmmm, how about 40?!?!??!

Even if you are not gunning for a top scoring time I have some great tools to help you get ready for an event like this, just give me a shout!

These pics are from last year's race as my photographers did not make it in time ;)  
Photo 1 is the 1/2 mile slog through Dog Ditch, second is my favorite obstacle that I can get over without help, and the last photo is the pose before the finish line that I did not pause for this year!!!

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Butt kicked and back on track!


Sometimes we all need a kick in the butt!  I am a healthy eater.  I usually choose a salad when I go out for dinner.  I rarely bake as I know I will eat half of whatever I make.  I buy lots of fruit and vegetables and choose whole grain over white anything!  My problem?  I eat too often and too much!  I took the rule of "eat every 2-3 hours" a bit too far!  Sometimes I would have a little handful of almonds as my snack... then I was hungry and realized I could add a few more calories so I grabbed some dried apples... it might sound silly and insignificant but it got out of hand and then I was eating regular meals and reaching into the cracker box along with my kids as well... all of a sudden my clothes were getting snug and I was even exercising 5+ days a week! 

It is all about choices and self control!

I drink Shakeology every day too which I love.  I realized though that I had started drinking Shakeology more as a quick snack, so when I drank it quickly I looked for another snack before it had a chance to fill me up!  Just like a meal... if you eat leisurely and wait a few minutes you will often find that you are in fact satiated, vs when you wolf it down and go for seconds then feel absolutely stuffed!  We need to be sensible.
I decided it was time to hit the Shakeology cleanse again.  3 Shakes a day for 3 days plus a few pieces of fruit, a salad with lean protein, green tea and lots of water.  So on Sunday I got down to business.  I avoided Sunday morning pancakes with the kids, I only had a piece of fruit between meals instead of my regular 4 snacks, I steamed a 4 oz piece of tilapia in some leftover soup and put it on my salad with the veggies that were in my soup, plus my 3 shakes during the day.  Monday went well too.  I watched my friends enjoy a glass of wine while our kids were at Catillion... I will have one next time!  On the way home we drove by El Pollo Loco for dinner to go.  I had a chicken leg (not super lean but that is the best I could do) to go with my salad I made at home.  Tuesday I had a meeting- had a few pieces of fruit at the meeting plus creamer in my coffee!  Through the three days I was never ravenous.  I did get hungry, I did look longingly at some carbs but hey, it was only 3 days! 
This morning, Wednesday,  I am down 4 1/2 pounds, I feel great, my belly is flatter and I have not even been tempted to indulge in snacks all morning!  The ultimate goal in 3 days isn't really massive weight loss, it is only 3 days after all, but retraining my cravings and appetite!   
Refocusing on what I NEED vs what I WANT!   
I am healthy already, I don't want to starve myself, but I do feel better when I am comfortable in my clothes and in my appearance!  It sure feels great to be back on track!

There are many "health drinks" or "shakes" out there to choose from.  I like Shakeology because it is made from 70 whole foods including many Superfoods (watch where the ingredients come from here).  There are no secrets about the ingredients, they are all listed on the bag.  The product is included in Foodfacts.com with a super high rating.  Here is a chart comparing Shakeology to some other leading health shakes.  See for yourself where things fall!  Head to my website for FREE coaching and contact me with any questions. www.GetFitWithNicola.com


Thursday, September 22, 2011

Not ready for P90X? Where should you start...

P90X and Insanity infomercials can have you riveted to the TV while you sit on the couch eating your ice cream... sometimes they inspire people to pick up the phone or get on the computer and order, other times they send you running for the hills thinking that you could never do those crazy things!!!

Which one are you?

P90X, Insanity and TurboFire are considered graduate programs. Sure you can start them from any fitness level but in reality you aren't going to be able to get ripped in 90 days if you have 100 pounds to lose or if you aren't physically ready to really BRING IT!!! That said, some people have been able to get amazing results in 90 days - some dropping over 60 pounds and finding the body of their dreams! In all reality it is usually best to find a workout that you will enjoy, that will boost your confidence and that will inspire you to plug in to 5+ days a week!

  • A good place to start is walking. Go for a walk every morning, at lunch time, in the evening... whenever you can regularly plug it into your schedule! If you don't schedule it though, you won't do it!!!  Change it up with bike rides and jogs.
  • Pushups! Start with 5 in the morning, increase regularly and before you know it you will be able to do 20... on your toes - just remember to make a straight line with your body from your shoulders to your ankles (or knees), abs and glutes tight! 

  • Tricep Dips on the side of the coffee table or on a chair edge. Face away from the chair, put the heel of your hand on the edge of the chair, bend legs as you lower your body while bending at the elbow.  As you get stronger, move your feet further away from the chair so they are supporting less of your weight!
  • Squats and lunges are great for your legs and glutes!  Any time you are lowering your body just make sure that your knees don't shoot out over your toes... 
  • For Squats-sit your booty backwards like you are sitting into a chair, chest raised and tighten those muscles on the way down and the way back up... hold and repeat!  If you look down you should be able to see your toes and make sure your knees are pointing the same direction as your toes!  
  • For Lunges- step forward far enough so when you lower your body your front knee stays over top of your ankle with weight on your front heel and back toe.  Raise and lower or do walking lunges!

  • Pick up a resistance band from Target, a sporting good store or my Beachbody site and start doing some resistance training for other body parts! Add resistance to the moves above or throw in some bicep curls, shoulder raises and rows!
So you have tried a few of these ideas and you are ready for a program?  Try Power 90 - the predecessor to P90X, 10 minute trainer, Slim in 6, Turbo Jam, Brazil Butt Lift, Hip Hop Abs, RevAbs or ChaLEAN Extreme.  Also check out the "Shakeology Workouts" that come FREE when you order Shakeology on Autoship (Shakeology is a great way to get your eating in line as well)!  These programs are great for people at all fitness levels but are definitely better choices for those of you just starting your fitness!

If you are just starting out and want some inspiration, check out this "Pay it Forward" workout with Tony Horton!  Do you have 30 minutes?  Give it a try!!!!


Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Alyssa lost 30 pounds - are you ready to join her?

Accomplishments like this make me even more excited about being a Beachbody Coach!  Helping people help themselves on the road to getting fit and healthy!!! 

Alyssa has lost 30 pounds in 3 months of Power 90 because she decided it was time to make a change and help herself!!!

Alyssa graduated from college and wanted to make some changes so she did!!!  She ordered Power 90, she saw that Beachbody had "given" her a coach, she contacted me and told me she needed to get in shape and feel good about herself and was looking forward to the insane journey!!! 

We also connected on Facebook, I added her to my Fitness Accountability group and we, along with another 30+ people, have been motivating and supporting each other almost every day!  Posting our workouts, asking for advice on how to get motivated on a bad day, what to do when you feel too tired to push through, should you stop when you are nauseous... PLUS how great we feel after an amazing workout, the good choices we made with food, the weight loss that we are seeing!!!  A little motivation goes a long way, especially if you work as a team!

Alyssa is not finished by any means.  She is almost half way to her first weight loss goal but she is gearing up to push hard right now.  Along this journey she realized that "post college life" was not going as she had hoped so she has found a new job, a new place to live where she feels more support and is setting herself up for success!!!   Life doesn't always fall into place by itself, sometimes you need to kick it in the butt and steer it to where you want it to be!  I am so excited for you Alyssa and look forward to seeing you reaching all of your goals!!!

There is no magic pill when it comes to losing weight and getting fit.  It requires dedication, hard work, a big commitment and SUPPORT!!!  If you want to be successful you need to make goals, share your goals with others and rely on the support of others.  If you don't have an inner network that you know will be there for you then you need to find someone!!!  I am here for you, other Beachbody coaches can be there for you... even your friends.  I bet if you ask them, they will help too.  Just make sure YOU are your biggest supporter and fan as well!!!  You need to be positive and plan for success each day... it won't be easy but little by little, you will get there!

www.GetFitWithNicola.com

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

What is your biggest challenge with your fitness?

I love to exercise!!! Sometimes I let life get in the way and I miss a few days... which can turn into a few weeks and I wonder why I feel so lazy and lethargic... then I usually kick myself in the butt and get back on track!  I am lucky as I enjoy to work out and I KNOW how much better I will feel after than initial shock to the system of exercising regularly again.  The crazy thing is... you TOO will feel better after that initial shock!  It is just getting through those first few days of sore muscles and keeping at it!  Energy will increase, body will respond... you will feel great, I promise!!!  What do you enjoy doing?  Find a way to turn it into a workout.  Let me help you find a program that will work for YOU!  Take a look at this link and let me know what looks FUN to you. 

My area of weakness though is eating!  I LOVE cupcakes!  A few years ago when I lost 30 pounds I used amazing will power and through healthy eating, portion control and restricting calories - along with exercise- I dropped the weight pretty quickly!  Now I am trying to lose a little body fat, find my six pack and feel comfortable in all of my clothes, but I am not approaching it with the same passion I did when I "needed" to drop the weight!  Now it isn't so much for health but for vanity... and my passion for food is pretty strong too!  So is the calling of the glass of wine at the end of a long day :)

I have been planning, on and off for 6 months, to search for that hidden six pack again.  I have taken on the challenge of a new program, ChaLEAN Extreme, and am feeling my muscles getting stronger, but I need to take a few more steps with my nutrition.  I eat healthy food, I limit my treats, I only have a few glasses of wine a week, but I eat often.  Eating often is good... they recommend 2-3 hours between snacks/ small meals but I tend to grab a piece of fruit, a handful of almonds, a hunk of protein bar... pretty much whenever I walk through the kitchen! So guess what... Tomorrow has arrived!!!

My Challenge to myself: To actually reach that 2 hour mark between eating!  To resist snacking after dinner and instead make myself a cup of tea!  To make a small meal rather than standing at the counter eating out of the bag and consuming an unknown amount of calories!  To only have 2 cups of coffee a day!  To chew on a piece of gum instead of another handful of almonds!  To appreciate the phenomenal nutrition in my daily Shakeology and enjoy every last drop!  To enjoy my workouts and help as many people learn to love theirs too :)

What is your biggest challenge and how can I help you find a way to conquer it?  I would love to help, just sign up for the FREE membership at www.GetFitWithNicola.com OR select the club membership with some great features including nutrition tools and meal planning.  Learn more about it here.