Stay beach-ready

Do any of you ever go to the library for new fitness inspiration?  I was there last week, and picked up Jackie Warner's Crunch-Free Xtreme Abs to try out.  This DVD consists of two segments: a standing abdominal workout, and a and floor abdominal workout, in 16 minute-sets.  I found the floor segment to be the most effective and felt the burn immediately.  Jackie gives tips throughout (make sure to watch your back and pay attention to posture!), and offers two different levels of intensity for each exercise.

One aspect I really appreciated about this workout is that Jackie takes the time to work out your back muscles, as well (particularly in the second part).  We spend so much time pulling our core in, that we often forget the need to stretch out the other way.  This is vital to avoid injury and muscle strain.  It's way too easy to pull your back muscles, and then simply moving around (heck, forget exercising) is all the more difficult!

After doing just the floor workout from Xtreme Abs today, I transitioned into some Zumba dancing, a couple of videos from Tiffany Rothe's YouTube channel, and this great little 10-minute workout to keep you swimsuit-ready, from FitSugar.  Enjoy!

Wednesday Workout Inspiration

Source: FitSugar

When you're feeling like you can't lift another weight, jog another ten paces, or do one more sumo squat, just think about this.  The hard work will pay off, and you'll feel incredible because of it!  Push through the pain and the struggle and WIN.

It'll all be worth it in the end...

Motivation + Habit

Source: FitSugar

Honestly, it's equal parts habit and feeling simply fabulous (both physically and mentally) from exercising that are what motivate me every time.  I'm truly addicted to the fit and healthy life.

What motivates you? :)

On dieting

 “I never worry about diets. The only carrots that interest me are the number of carats in a diamond.”

– Mae West

What do you think... Does Mae have a point here?  Whilst I love eating carrots, I can honestly say that in my own life, as well as documentation from countless studies and statistics show that diets don't usually work.  Temporarily, yes (maybe), but we ought to be focused on longevity.

I would much rather make wise lifestyle choices that result in a life-long healthful state and well being, than rely on the latest get-thin-quick fads.

Opinions?  What have you found to work in your case?

Award-winning arms

If you watched last weekend's 84th annual Academy Awards show, then you likely noticed two of the night's fittest ladies: Viola Davis and Cameron Diaz.  Just look at those toned arms!

Here are some fab upper-body exercises that will sculpt your arms, chest, and shoulders in no time.

• FitSugar's 3 killer-upper body moves
• Gwyneth Paltrow's exercises for shapely shoulders and strong arms
• Show off your shoulders à la Kate Middleton

TIP:
To maximise my arm-shaping workout, I often incorporate lower body exercises such as squats, pliés, and lunges at the same time.  Killer.

Happy Friday, and love the burn!

Pilates Fusion

Here is a little Pilates Fusion workout for today!  This is perfect, because it works different muscles at the same time, and you'll be feeling that wonderful burn almost immediately.  Featuring Sarah of The Sarah Fit Show.

Transformation

Source: Flickr (user dfmillington)

Fresh off from a working out to a new fitness DVD, I bring you an encouraging quote for the day:

"Transformation is not a future event. It is a present activity!"
– Jillian Michaels

Let that be something to work towards!