FITNESS Intern

Shop Till You Drop (The Weight!) on Black Friday

November 23, 2012 at 7:00 am
By FITNESS Intern

Written by Deanna Cioppa, editorial intern

Ah, Black Friday – the magical day when shoppers all over the country flood the stores for 24 hours, desperate for the perfect gift for a loved one. Carb-loaded on turkey and pie, they hit the stores, ready to brace themselves for retail madness and nab deep discounts. Why not make the most of the craziness and start working off some of that stuffing?

Celebrity trainer Ilyse Baker works with FitOrbit, an online lifestyle, nutrition and fitness program, to help clients get into shape from the comfort of their own home. She’s given us some of her top tips to help you shop till you drop – the weight, that is! Try these simple moves while you’re waiting in line to check out, in the dressing room, or waiting for your family in the parking lot. Sales and fitness? Sounds like heaven!

Shopping Squats

Stuck outside the dressing room? Take a moment to strengthen your lower body.

• Start with legs hip-width apart, knees slightly bent, toes facing forward.
• Push butt back and slowly bend knees to lower toward floor, like sitting in a chair. Keep weight on heels and make sure knees don’t go over toes.
• Slowly return to starting position, squeezing glutes as you rise. Repeat.
• Perform 3 sets of 12.

Bag Buff Arms

Chisel those biceps with all of your new goodies!

• Start with arms by sides with 1 bag in each hand, palms facing up.
• Bend elbows to curl bag toward shoulders, counting to two while lifting and two while lowering.
• Repeat 2 times, then lift for one count and lower for one count.
• Repeat 2 times.

Carve Sexy Calves

The turkey isn’t the only thing you can carve this holiday! Work on sculpting awesome calves while waiting in the check-out line.

• Stand straight with feet hip-width apart.
• Rise on the balls of feet, lifting heels off the floor.
• Lower heels back to floor.  Repeat.
• Perform 3 sets of 10. On the 10th rep, hold heels off floor for 8 counts for a balance challenge, then slowly lower back to floor.

Now you tell us: How do you stay fit during the holidays?

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Music Monday: Wake Up Your Morning Playlist

November 19, 2012 at 10:43 am
By FITNESS Intern

Written by Deanna Cioppa, editorial intern

Getting out of bed after the first alarm is tough enough by itself, never mind getting pumped for an early morning workout. Sometimes our beds are just so comfortable! We could use all the help we can get, so here’s an early morning mix that helps us get moving and grooving once our feet hit the floor. Download into your own music library and see if you hit the road, gym or yoga mat bright-eyed and ready to sweat!

Now you tell us: Is it easy for you to wake up for a morning workout?

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Snack Like a Pro: Tips from the NY Knicks’ Nutritionist

November 14, 2012 at 4:42 pm
By FITNESS Intern

Written by Lisa Turner, Editorial Intern

When the New York Knicks need to refuel for a big game, they turn to Heidi Skolnik, M.S., C.D.N., FACSM, and founder and president of Nutrition Conditioning, which oversees the nutrition programs at The Juilliard School, The New York Knicks, School of American Ballet, and Fordham University Athletics. We got Skolnik’s pointers on how to make good-for-you snacks that won’t damage your waistline.

What can I stock in my fridge that I can grab n’ go?

Planning ahead is always the best way to ensure you’re prepared with a healthy snack and don’t face the vending machine dilemma. There’s a lot of easy and simple options to choose from:

Breakfast:

• Whole wheat Pita stuffed with peanut butter and banana with a small glass of milk
• Hard boiled egg, small OJ, whole grain crackers
• Fruit parfait: fresh or frozen fruit, yogurt, a sprinkle of Grape nuts or muesli and nuts
• Homemade trail mix with nuts and dried fruits and a cheese stick

Grab ‘n Go Snacks:

• GoGo squeeZ applesauce
• Kind Nut Bars
• Cheese sticks or rounds
• Edamame

What’s a calorie limit I should shoot for with a snack?

Ultimately, it depends on your meal size and daily caloric needs.   If you need 1800 calories in a day and meals are 400-500 calories that leaves two snacks at 150-300 calories.

Snack ideas:

• Banana and almond butter
• Mango smoothie made with calcium fortified OJ and lactose free whey protein powder
• Quinoa, vegetable and edamame cold salad
• Popcorn –sprinkle with olive oil and herbs of choice
• Hummus with crudités or spread on a corn or rice cake Read more

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Get Fifty Shades of Fit with Kristen James

November 13, 2012 at 11:00 am
By FITNESS Intern

Written by Deanna Cioppa, editorial intern

Well, ladies, it was only a matter of time before the Fifty Shades of Grey phenomenon hit the fitness world. Expert Kristen James (the master behind CYCLEology) has developed a new workout called “50 Shapes of Grey,” filled with sexy strengthening exercises that get your body ready to perfectly execute Christian and Anastasia’s moves from the book.

According to James, this exercise program will not only help you lean out and get strong, but will bring the self-confidence you need for a Fifty Shades-worthy bedroom session. Because the first thing you think about when you read the book is, “Wow, she must have a great core!” Right?

Using minimal equipment (mats and a chair), James takes you through a series of moves with names like “sexy scissors,” “dirty diamonds” and “lusty lunges.” She even references chapters from the book – this girl did her homework when developing the moves!

Want a sneak peek into the sinfully delicious workout? Try these, then download the full routine for $9.99 at James’ website.

Read more

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Music Monday: All-American Workout Playlist

November 12, 2012 at 10:58 am
By FITNESS Intern

Written by Jennifer Fiorentino, editorial intern

November is a very patriotic month with Election Day, the Marine Corps birthday and Veterans Day all wrapped into the month of gratitude and Thanksgiving. As Americans, we have a lot to be thankful for — our freedom, liberties and those who fight and defend our nation. Boost your American pride this week, as well as your workout, with some of our favorite tunes honoring the red, white and blue.

More from FITNESS:

One Nation Under Fitness

Fourth of July Playlist

Plan a Perfect Patriotic Party

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Get Balanced, Toned and Centered with Rodney Yee’s New Yoga DVD!

October 31, 2012 at 2:24 pm
By FITNESS Intern

Written by Jennifer Fiorentino, editorial intern

Close your eyes and imagine standing in front of one of the most sought-after yoga instructors in the world, Rodney Yee. As the saying goes, “ask and you shall receive!” Better yet, he’s coming to your home – no travel required!

To better meet many people’s urge to practice with Yee, he’s recently released Core Centered Yoga on DVD. The disc features five different workouts – lower balance, back balance, internal balance, bending balance and restorative balance – to give you that overall sense of “ahh” and bring you back to a peaceful state of being.

We got to test-drive the latest workout for ourselves in Yogaworks Union Square studio, and we were quite impressed! Yee eased our minds, engaged our balance and stressed the importance of accessing our core, taking our practice to a whole new level.

“I am very excited for the release of Core Centered Yoga because it is a concept I have always been passionate about,” says Yee. “It has been a great experience to once again work with Gaiam to create this DVD, which teaches how to be in sync with the core to build strength through fluid alignment and mindfulness.”

We also nabbed a sneak peek at Gaiam’s newly launched expansion of its Sol Collection, which features fresh new products including towels, mats and blocks to enhance every girl’s practice in a fashion-forward way. After all, there’s nothing wrong with looking cute while working up a sweat, right?

Now you tell us: Do you prefer to practice yoga at home or in a studio?

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Hot Topic Tuesday: Should You Ditch Energy Drinks?

October 30, 2012 at 1:00 pm
By FITNESS Intern

Written by Deanna Cioppa, editorial intern 

The media has lit up in recent days over reports released by the Food and Drug Administration indicating that Monster Energy drinks may have been linked to five deaths and a non-fatal heart attack over the last three years. While no link has been proven yet, the mother of one of teenager who died after drinking the energy beverage two days in a row (a 24oz can of Monster Energy contains 240 mg of caffeine, while a typical 8 oz cup of coffee contains around 100 mg) has filed a lawsuit against Monster Beverage.

Part of the danger of energy drinks is the way they’re marketed, says Sharon Richter, R.D. In fact, The New York Times reported recently that current FDA rules don’t require companies to indicate the level of caffeine in their beverages and allows them to market the drinks as beverages or dietary supplements. These drinks “are so attractive to kids, and it’s not necessarily appropriate for them,” says Richter. Plus, it’s easy to consume several cans of these drinks without thought during the day, and at 240mg per can, that adds up quickly.

So what about alternative, natural sources of energy? “A lot of people are low in terms of vitamin D and B vitamins,” says Richter. Doctors can test for low D levels, and Richter recommends taking a vitamin D supplement if the doc finds your levels are low. Not comfortable getting your nutrients from a supplement? You can also find the sunshine vitamin in certain fish, like salmon and trout, and fortified in milk and orange juice.

If you find that you’re not low on vitamin D but still experience an energy slump in the middle of the day, reach for green tea, says Richter. “There are a lot of benefits to green tea because its level of caffeine is not too excessive,” she says. Don’t forget to take a step back from the computer and get moving for a few minutes, either – taking a walk or doing jumping jacks for 30 seconds can increase oxygen intake and get blood pumping, which may provide a much-needed energy spike.

And no matter how much those cravings may kick in, try to steer clear of excessive sugar in processed foods like donuts and cupcakes. It’ll only bring on a sugar crash a few hours later. Instead, Richter suggests opting for a piece of fruit or an energy bar with simple, natural ingredients.

Now you tell us: Do you reach for energy drinks during a pick-me-up?

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Star Chef Aaron Sanchez Amps Up Your Football Snacks!

October 29, 2012 at 12:26 pm
By FITNESS Intern

Written by Jennifer Fiorentino, editorial intern

If you’re looking to tackle your Monday night football snack lineup, we have just what you need (minus the shoulder pads). PopChips, along with Iron Chef America and Chopped star Aaron Sanchez, have teamed up to give you a new fall recipe perfect to pair with a crisp, fall beer. What could scream “football season” more?

“These cemita sandwiches are my version of the classic sub, full of flavor and healthy goodness,” Sanchez says. “By grilling the chicken and using nutrient-rich avocado instead of mayonnaise, we take out some of the unnecessary fats. Salsa Tortilla PopChips are the perfect complement – their sweet and salty flavors enhance the smoky heat of the sandwich.” We guarantee these won’t make it to half time.

Grilled Chicken Cemitas and Garlic-Chipotle Love Sauce with Salsa Tortilla PopChips

Serves 4

210 calories per sandwich

For the Cemitas:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 ripe avocado
• Juice of 1 lime
• 4 Cemita rolls (or hamburger rolls with sesame seeds)
• Olive oil
• 1 cup refried beans, warmed
• 8 oz. oaxaca or mozzarella cheese, grated
• 1 tomato, sliced
• Thinly sliced lettuce
• Fresh cilantro leaves

For the Garlic-Chipotle Love Sauce:

• 1 cup canola oil
• 12 garlic cloves
• 3 Tbsp. canned chipotle chilies in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
• Zest of 1 lime
• 2 tsp. kosher salt

Read more

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Vanessa Hudgens Dances for a Cure in New York City!

October 25, 2012 at 11:43 am
By FITNESS Intern

Written by Jennifer Fiorentino, editorial intern

New studies show that regular exercise can reduce the risk of breast cancer, so to celebrate breast cancer awareness month, Vanessa Hudgens, along with Reebok and DSW, hosted a pink-themed workout at Studio 450 in New York City. Led by celebrity dance and fitness instructor Ilyse Baker, lucky fans got the chance to dance with Hudgens.

The 23-year-old celeb chooses fun, energetic exercises over walking on the treadmill. “I love group activities and I love dancing,” Hudgens says. “I have been dancing ever since I was three-years-old so it’s just a fun way to forget about the fact that you’re working out and just enjoy the music and be comfortable in your body.”

At the workout we danced the night away with the gorgeous pink skies of a perfect New York City sunset. Hudgens’ insider tip: “Listen to music you love. If you can just get out of your head and allow freedom with music to take over, you’ll have so much fun and then you’ll forget that you’re working out.”

Reebok will be donating up to $750,000 to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade through the sale of its Pink Ribbon line, which is on sale at DSW stores nationwide.

If you’d like to help the cause, head to DSW’s website and find a store near you.

Now go get your pink on!

More from FITNESS:

4 Foods that Fight Breast Cancer

How to Fight Breast Cancer at Any Age

“Why I Gave Up My Breasts”

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Go Pink This Month with Cybex

October 16, 2012 at 3:58 pm
By FITNESS Intern

Written by Jennifer Fiorentino, editorial intern

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, with one in eight women developing breast cancer during their lifetime. The statistics are alarming, but fortunately there are companies, like Cybex, that are willing to help support research. Earlier this month, the leading exercise equipment manufacturer announced their Fourth Annual Pink Ribbon Run. For every mile logged on their new pink treadmill this October, Cybex will donate 10 cents to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. They have raised over $100,0000 the past three years and are expecting to exceed their current record!

Research has proven that regular exercise may reduce a woman’s breast cancer risk.“Participating in daily cardio for 30 minutes at moderate intensity shows a decrease in all of the biomarkers associated with cancer,” said Angela Corcoran, MS, Director of Education at the Cybex Research Institute. “Recent studies suggest that there is a very close link between excess body fat and breast cancer, specifically abdominal fat. Exercise decreases cortisol levels which are closely associated with abdominal fat.”

So what are you waiting for? Hop on a pink treadmill near you to help fight breast cancer, one stride at a time. Forty-three states are supporting the cause. Check out Cybex’s website to find a participating gym near you. 

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