19 September, 2012

Exercise – how to begin...


"I do yoga a minimum of three times a week.  I also do pilates or resistance training three times a week.  Even if I can only do half an hour of resistance training—dips and squats—it makes a difference."
– Miranda Kerr

Wondering how much to exercise per week?  Here are some helpful links to get you started.





13 September, 2012

Yoga sequence

Source: Flickr (user gorillatemple)

Have you ever done a yoga or pilates session in a heated room?  Today, I bring you a little yoga flow from the Moksha Yoga Studio in Los Angeles (with easy-to-follow steps from a yoga instructor and funny commentary from actress Judy Greer).

"Heat naturally calms the body, is therapeutic for joint pain, and oxygenates the blood!"

"In the movements, just be mindful that when you're in the heat, the muscles and ligaments are a bit more elastic, and so when you're not in a heated room, the muscles and those things take time to open up."


Watch the Downward Dog Flow below:


03 September, 2012

Labour Day Links

Source: Flickr (user sportscrazephotos)

"Studies show that quick bursts of activity, even as little as 30 or 60 seconds at a time, have real benefits in terms of calorie burning and cardiovascular conditioning," says Michele Stanten, a certified fitness instructor and author of "Walk Off Weight".

Don't lose your momentum on a holiday weekend!  Here are three Monday activity tips to keep you up to speed:





Have a beautiful day!

06 August, 2012

Monday Medicine


She forgot daily exercise... Oh well, I'm sure that's what she meant by eating slowly!  Happy Birthday, Lucille Ball!

26 July, 2012

Summer Olympics London 2012


Are you as excited as me about tomorrow's opening of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London?  I just cannot contain my anticipation!

In case you're not already pumped up enough about the Games, here are some fun links to further fuel your appetite:







Where will you be watching the opening ceremony from?  I know I am wishing wishing more than ever that I could be in London right now, considering events haven't completely sold out and tickets are even being give away for free for tomorrow night!

20 July, 2012

Working out in heat & humidity


Is it hot and humid where you live?  Then this workout from POP Pilates is just what you need!  The best part is how Cassey talks you through the entire video with her funny commentary that distracts you from the burn.  Oh, and did I mention she's working out in Australia (one of the countries I've dreamed of visiting since I was little)?!


Here are 8 safety tips from Active.com for exercising in torrid temps:

1. The time of day is important. Unless you are training for an event that takes place in the daytime heat, avoid exercising from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It's the hottest part of day. Generally, the early morning is the best time to workout, especially if it's going to be scorcher that day.

2. Wear loose, light-colored. The lighter color will help reflect heat, and cotton material will help the evaporation of sweat. You may also want to try specially designed, "hi-tech" running shirts and shorts. They are often made from material meant to keep you cool.  

3. Sunscreen is a must. I use SPF 45 just to be safe. It's important to protect your skin. You can get burned and suffer sun damage to your skin even on cloudy days.

4. Stay hydrated. Before you go out, drink a glass or two of water. Carry a bottle of water or even a hydration pack such as the CamelBak. Take a drink every 15 minutes, even when you're not thirsty. When you're done with your workout, have a few more glasses of water.

5. Replenish your electrolyte and salt intake while exercising. I like to use SUCCEED capsules--small, simple packs of sodium and electrolytes that keep my system in check.

6. If you can, choose shaded trails or pathways that keep you out of the sun.

7. Check the weather forecast before you start your workout. If there's a heat advisory, meaning high ozone and air pollution, you might want to take your workout indoors. These pollutants can damage your lungs.

8. Most importantly, listen to your body. Stop immediately if you're feeling dizzy, faint or nauseous.

09 July, 2012

Focus on: Inner Thighs & Calves

Here is an overdose of amazing leg exercises, courtesy of Pop Pilates.  If your legs aren't on FIRE by the end, then you'd better just start the video again!



Love the burn!