Showing posts with label Bikini Model. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bikini Model. Show all posts

Friday, 14 November 2014

The Real Benefits of Strengthening Your Core…Beliefs

Your core muscles form the sturdy link in a chain that connects your upper body and your lower body. Regardless of what you do while you’re lifting, twisting or bending – from putting on your gym shoes and socks to taking out the trash – your core is at work.

 

 Low back pain? Check your core. Problems playing your favorite sport? Check your core.
Trouble doing household chores? Check your core. Issues with your posture? Check your core.
A little shaky on your balance and stability? Check your core. Not thinking clearly or acting wisely? Check your core.
   
Wait a moment? What does your core have to do with thinking clearly or acting wisely?  Plenty - if it's your core BELIEFS that you're talking about. 
Typically clients know the drill for core exercises, but I'm going to show you additional exercises you may incorporate to add an additional real benefit to your coaching sessions. Have your clients ask themselves (and perhaps ask yourself) this simple question: "What idea have I feverishly and insistently held onto that causes many of the problems in my life?"
Here's a list adapted from the work of Albert Ellis, Ph.D., founder of Rational Emotive Behavior therapy. Known as the forerunner of cognitive behavior therapy, Ellis has compiled a list of the most common irrational thinking that leads to the most universal forms of human upset:
  1. The idea that it is a dire necessity for adults to be loved by significant others for nearly everything they do instead of their concentrating on their own self-respect, and on loving rather than on being loved.
  2. The idea that certain acts are awful or wicked, and that people who perform such acts should be severely damned instead of the idea that certain acts are self-defeating or anti-social and that people's poor behaviors do not make them bad individuals.
  3. The idea that it's horrible when things are not the way we like them to be instead of the idea that it's unfortunate and if it's not possible to change the situation, we should temporarily accept their existence.
  4. The idea that human misery is invariably externally caused and is forced on us by outside people and events instead of the idea that our upset is caused by the view we take of unfortunate conditions.
  5. The idea that if something is or may be dangerous or fearsome we should be terribly upset instead of the idea that we should face it and accept the inevitable.
  6. The idea that it is easier to avoid than to face life's difficulties and self-responsibilities instead of the idea that the so-called "easy way" is usually much harder in the long run.
  7. The idea that we absolutely need something other, stronger or greater than yourself to rely on instead of the idea that it's better to take the risks of thinking and acting independently.
  8. The idea that we should be thoroughly competent, intelligent and achieving in all possible respects instead of the idea that we should accept ourselves as imperfect creatures with general human limitations and specific fallibilities.
  9. The idea that because something once strongly affected our life it should indefinitely affect it instead of the idea that we can learn from our past experiences.
  10. The idea that we must have certain and perfect control over things instead of the idea that the world is full of probability and chance, and despite this we can still enjoy life.
Help strengthen your own and your client"s core beliefs by answering the following questions in writing:
"What idea have you feverishly and insistently held onto that is the cause of many problems in your life?"
Ask yourself what's inaccurate about this unhelpful thought. Do you have any evidence the useless thought is true? If not, why keep holding onto what's unnecessary? What can you replace this adverse thought with one that's more helpful?
Do this exercise mindfully everyday, one set, as many reps as needed.

Source: By Michael Mantell Dr. Michael Mantell


Wednesday, 12 November 2014

How and why you should train with TRX

TRX - WHAT IS IT?
Well, it is amazing! There’s not one thing I don’t love about TRX for myself and for my clients. Maybe you have seen that “ropey, strappy thingy” at the gym or maybe you just want to know more, or perhaps you’re hearing about TRX for the first time. No matter what, I want to cover the basics for you in hopes that you try it out and learn what all the hype is really about.
Being a TRX Certified Instructor, I use TRX in my own training routine as well as with my clients. I use TRX Training at my gym and also have one in my home for an anytime workout. I love how you can pack it up and take it to the park, do a workout in your own home, or bring it along with you when traveling. No excuses, right? No matter your fitness level, the TRX is perfect and versatile for everyone; athletes, rehab, stay at home moms, body builders, young and old. TRX offers a cardio workout, a resistance workout, muscle flexibility workout, as well as balance. No matter what your goals are, you can benefit from the TRX. Before we discuss everything there is to know about the TRX, it’s important to first understand exactly how the body works.
HOW THE BODY WORKS: 
I am a trainer who incorporates many types of functional and corrective training in my clients’ routines. You’ll see why in just a moment. It is so important to understand the fundamentals and foundation of your body. Everything you do in life starts with one part of your body. Any guesses? IT’S YOUR CORE. Your core is not just about those six pack abs you see - it is so much more than that. Your core is made up of your pelvis, back, chest muscles, and also the abdominals. It is your core that is responsible for your body stability, flexibility and balance. Makes sense, right? Also, do we always move in the same direction every day like robots? No, we surely do not! We move with twisting, bending movements and we’re going left, right, down, up, side-to-side, as well as forwards and backwards. This is called “multi-plane” movements. Once you think of your body moving “all around” these different ways, wouldn’t you agree it would be very important to train your body the same way?
Whether you’re picking up after the kids or dog, playing sports, cleaning your house or car, and of course then working out, you are using your CORE whether you know it or not. For the most part, you are moving multi-plane. This is very important for us to understand because the stronger your core is and the more familiar your body is with moving multi-plane, the less injuries you will have, not only in your lower back but in your entire body.





















WHAT IS TRX EXACTLY?
TRX stands for Total Body Resistance Exercise. It’s a type of training that uses your own body weight and gravity to build strength, balance, coordination, flexibility, core and joint stability, all while preventing injuries. Not to sound intimating, the TRX was originally designed by a Navy Seal who needed to stay in shape within limited space using something he could easily take on his travels. (This is why you can pack it up and take it with you nearly anywhere you can place the anchor point.) Consequently, he created TRX and boy, did the rest of the world catch on. 






















THE MANY ADVANTAGES OF USING THE TRX SYSTEM:



  For starters, you can minimize your training time by working your whole entire body switching from one exercise to the next in just seconds. The best part to me? As I mentioned, in every exercise you engage your core. So, this is great news if you’ve been focusing on your core. Now watch how much harder things become when you REALLY engage your core. Are you up for the challenge? Just think of how developing good core strength and stability will only enhance your performance and way of life. Your whole body will work and feel better.
Another advantage in using your own body weight and gravity is you are able to adjust your own personal fitness level. I love that you have control of the intensity just by walking yourself closer or further away from the anchoring point. That means instead of having to grab a different set of dumbbells or add more weight to machines, you just simply adjust your foot placement. Easy enough, right? This is also why you can keep your heart rate up and keep moving. No wasted time (important in my workouts!) which keeps you constantly challenging your body through every exercise.
WHAT ARE SOME EXERCISES I CAN ADD TO MY ROUTINE TO HELP MY PERFORMANCE?
With any new workout routine (yoga, weights, spin class,) it’s important to start off with the basics. Make sure you have mastered the proper form and technique before you move on to advanced movements. The basic movements (yet still challenging) include: Chest Press, Row, Lunge, Squat, Plank, Tucks, Pike, Side Lunge, Oblique Twist and Back Extension. Say hello to CORE work! Some of my favorite moves that are more advanced are: atomic push-ups and single-leg squats. What I also LOVE doing with TRX is stretching. You can get fantastic full body stretches for your entire body in ways like no other. 
TRX has been a huge part of the fitness industry and is only growing larger, from professional athletes who need peak performance to everyday people who just want to feel and look their best. Personally, I love that TRX is exactly what I preach all the time--there is no tension on the joints if alignment and form are on point. That is how all workouts should be. It is uncomplicated to learn and a truly great way to incorporate new resistance training to any workout routine. You can find videos online to understand more and when you purchase one, it comes with a fantastic workout DVD. 
My hope when you see TRX for the first time is to feel more encouraged and give it a try!

 Posted by Monica Nelson of Monica Nelson Fitness



Tuesday, 11 November 2014

LORI HARDER INTERVIEW - COVER MODEL TIPS ON DIET & HEALTH

Lori Harder, cover model, competitor and trainer, has enjoyed so many wins which include Ms. Bikini Universe 2010 Champion, Ms. Figure America 2010 Champion, and Ms. Bikini America Champion, that we just had to get some of her tips to help our readers excel too.  Gorgeous, intelligent and driven, she certainly had some really valuable ideas to share.

Gabrielle Reilly:  What motivates you to stay in such great shape?

Lori Harder:  My drive to stay in shape comes from knowing that my happiness depends on it.  When I was younger, I didn't lead a healthy lifestyle, and I always felt like I was lacking energy, motivation, and drive to do anything in life.  Knowing what is on the other side keeps me on the move now!

Gabrielle Reilly:  What weight/cardio training do you do in a week?

Lori Harder:  I do three full body strength training/Plyo days.  I also do one to two days of Yoga or Yoga Sculpt, and I walk the lakes around my home with my dog and husband for cardio every day.

Gabrielle Reilly:  How do you fit your overall training/dieting into your lifestyle?

Lori Harder:  I put it first, and make a plan for it every single day.  I really try to get it all done in the morning as a priority so nothing else can push it off.

Gabrielle Reilly:  Do you have days when you don't want to exercise?

Lori Harder:  Every day!!  Action spurs motivation though, so I know that I have to get my rump moving first thing each morning in order to find it.

Gabrielle Reilly:  What time do you normally work out?

Lori Harder:  First thing in the morning, starting with our cardio walk.

Gabrielle Reilly:  How much sleep do you get?

Lori Harder:  I get 8-9 hours per night.  Sleep is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.  It keeps your appetite at bay, and helps you repair your body and burn fat.  Not to mention, it keeps me from being crabby to everyone in my life each day too!  LOL

Gabrielle Reilly:  How do you prevent yourself from becoming bored with working out?

Lori Harder:  I make sure to always change it up, and keep it really challenging.  I actually base my Online Training Program for others off of what my own plan is each month, so this motivates me to keep it changing.  Oh, and fresh new music and cute new workout clothes on a regular basis sure helps too!  You can check out my online training here http://loriharderfitness.com/training/online-personal-training/ for some other great ideas!

Gabrielle Reilly:  What attributed to you achieving such great physical success?

Lori Harder:  I was an overweight child growing up.  My whole family was overweight because we showed our love for each other socially around meals.  I knew I didn't feel good about myself on this path, so I decided to change it as an early teen.  Now I do it to help motivate others to change their family tree as well.


I also attribute my physical to success to surrounding myself with right people in life.  I have made some tough choices and learned that sometimes you have to avoid the people that bring you down or create a negative environment.  I was blessed to find my coach Cathy Savage in my mid twenties.  Having their expertise and guidance on show prep changed my life!  This also opened the door to meet so many other like minded amazing women.  You need to create an environment for success.  That may mean you need to branch out and make new friends that support your healthy goals and lifestyle!

Gabrielle Reilly:  How many calories do you consume a day off-contest and pre-contest?

Lori Harder:  I don't ever count calories.  I know that seems crazy, but I have an idea where my protein is, and I keep my diet very balanced with carbs, proteins, fruits or veggies at every meal.  I've actually turned to Isagenix meal replacements to help me achieve this balance, and it is so much easier for me now!  I eat 5-6 times per day, of which 2-3 of those are Isagenix shakes or bars.

I use almost their entire line of products and vitamins.  When you lead a very busy and active, healthy lifestyle it is a blessing when you can find something that is all natural that you can use on the go and know you are getting the nutrients your body needs to keep up.  Isagenix and high intensity compound training has saved me, especially now that I am traveling and speaking so much.  As far as pre contest, I stay pretty close to show shape at all times.  This becomes easier as you start to live this as a true lifestyle.  For me, food is related to how I feel mentally, physically, attitude wise and my happiness.  I know have to feel great to be successful in motivating others and myself to take action!  I usually take about 2-3 weeks before a show or a shoot and just clean up the little extra treats or any cocktails.  My training before show does not change much, but I will add in a bit more cardio and functional training the last two weeks to really tighten up.  www.loriharder.isagenix.com

Gabrielle Reilly:  Do you have allocated binge days/meals?

Lori Harder:  I really don't have binge days anymore.  I just eat what I want, when I want, but in moderation.  So, if I want a Mocha and a little chocolate on a Wednesday, I eat it.  This keeps me from binging by no longer feeling deprived for defined periods of time.   This has resulted in a surprisingly balanced way to eat.

Gabrielle Reilly:  What do you do when you feel like breaking your diet?

Lori Harder:  I have whatever I'm craving in portion control, and keep the rest of my meals extremely healthy that day.  I also try to alter the meals that I'm craving in a healthy way, and dedicated a website, www.busygirlhealthylife.com to these recipes.

 Gabrielle Reilly:  What are your top three healthy snacks?

Lori Harder:  My top three healthy snacks are Isagenix Shakes or bars, protein pancakes from my website, or Greek Yogurt with berries and nuts.

Gabrielle Reilly:  When you were about 5 or 6 what did you dream you would do when you grew up?

Lori Harder:  I wanted to be either a singer, gymnast or performer of some sort. so I guess I've been living that out through my fitness routines now!

Gabrielle Reilly:  For parents out there concerned about their children's health and obesity what words of advice would you offer them on fitness, motivation and diet for children?

Lori Harder:  Lead by example, and be a healthy active parent, always incorporating healthy food into their diet instead of keeping a bunch of junk around the house.  The junk food should be something you leave the home for as an occasional treat.  Try not to put so much emphasis on it being healthy, instead make it fun, rewarding the family with fun activity instead of food.

Gabrielle Reilly:  What are your measurements?

Lori Harder:
Height: 5'8
Weight: 138
Measurements:  (Bust, waist, hips.) 36-26-34
Dress size: 4

Gabrielle Reilly:  What is your body shape?  

Lori Harder: Straight, not very curvy, athletic.

Gabrielle Reilly:  Do you have any brands of cloths you prefer that fit your body shape well? 
Lori Harder:  I love BCBG, lululemon and bebe.

Source : http://www.theglobaltownhall.com/lori_harder