Category: Fitness

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Fitness Fitness and Health Self

7 Natural Alternative to Relieve Muscle Soreness

I received a $50 gift card t shop at Swanson’s Health Products in exchange for a blog review post. I have also received free products from Tp Therapy and Dirty Bird Energy. Although I received these items for free, they do not affect my opinion. My Full Disclosure Policy

I don’t know if it’s my age or the fact that I am active every day, but I don’t remember having muscle soreness on a daily basis.  I tell people if I don’t wake up sore something is wrong. Muscle soreness is a part of my life and just like anything that makes you uncomfortable you want to find a better way.

I was in Las Vegas this summer at the IDEA World Convention. During my first day, I spent 9 hours of getting certified for STRONG by Zumba, at which, I believe six of those hours were exercise. (At least it felt like it; I may be being dramatic so maybe 4.5) But it was more than an hours worth of group fitness.  At the end of the day, I was whooped and sore. I had a nagging issue in my pec that radiates to my shoulder; now I know its bicep tendinitis, but at the time I had no idea what was wrong. It’s not an injury or strain just the fact that I am 35 years old and I do push-ups and pull-ups almost every day could probably be the problem.

Regardless, by the third day of IDEA, my usual nag had become a scream. I was in tears because of the pain.

I have a high tolerance for pain and yep, pulling the natural birth Mom card. “I had my babies naturally!” So, for it to bring me to tears meant it was pretty painful.  I hate taking Tylenol or Ibuprofen. My stomach is really that sensitive.

My roommate offered me two things that I had never heard of before.  5 Arnica 30c tablets and a Salspas patch. Can I say Magic?  I placed the Arnica 30c under my tongue, slapped that patch on my shoulder and next thing you know I was waking up. The pain must have subsided and allowed me to go to sleep.

When I got home, I had to get this fantastic homeopathic remedy, so I checked out Swanson Health Products which is my go-to for affordable Natural and Homeopathic needs and was able to stock up on everything Arnica.

Being the nerd that I am of course, I had to see why many people didn’t know that this natural pain reliever existed. terrific  I have sent many to Swanson’s to get their own, and it’s in quite a few of their gym bags.

I also carry the cream and one day I have hit my shin on the grocery cart (have you ever done that “OH MY GOODNESS”) put the cream on my shin and it stopped throbbing in about 2 minutes and didn’t leave a bruise for once. I now swear by it like Windex, and my girls are always asking for the Arnica Oil at home for their “Boo boo’s” well actually that’s just Mimi my older ones just get it themselves.  I am grateful my Roomie shared her homeopathic goodness, and now as always, I feel obligated to share too.

Why not Tylenol?

Other than being really conscious of what I put in my body (that whole honor your temple conviction thing I got going) I am one of those people who hate taking pills. It’s not that I can’t I just don’t want to and if I can get relief by letting little candy-like pellets dissolve or rubbing cream; sign me up, for pain relief. Other than that I will suck it up and deal with it. There are also many adverse side effects associated with prolonged Acetimophrin consumption.

According to Dr. Dennis Lee, “Even though Tylenol most likely does not cause serious liver damage in recommended doses, it can cause elevations of liver enzymes in the blood suggesting injury to the liver. In a study of 145 healthy subjects who were randomized to receive placebo or 4 grams of Tylenol daily for two weeks, subjects in the placebo group experienced no elevations of ALT, a liver enzyme, but 33%-44% of the subjects in the Tylenol group had ALT elevations greater than three times the upper limits of normal. The highest ALT elevation was greater than 500 which is approximately 10 times the upper limit of normal. All enzyme elevations returned to normal after stopping Tylenol. Thus, recommended doses of Tylenol given to healthy subjects for two weeks can cause mild to moderate reversible liver injury. Tylenol, like all other medications, should be used cautiously under a doctor’s supervision with monitoring of liver enzyme levels.”

If you take Tylenol too long it will elevate the liver enzymes in your blood once you stop; it reduces. How about avoiding that in general?  Some things are necessary for Acetaminophen and muscle soreness is not one of them.  There are so many ways to either avoid or treat your aches and pains without popping a pill. It also takes so long to give you the relief  I have a suggestion of some alternatives reliefs to muscle soreness.

7 Things you must have to Relieve Muscle Soreness

7. Arnica Montana

Arnica 30c is amazing it works almost instantly, and it is a safer alternative to reduce your pain relieve from muscle soreness, joint swelling, and bruising.  It is non-drowsy and doesn’t react any other drugs because it’s homeopathic. It comes in a Pellets, Gel, Cream, and Oil. In concentrated form, the herb is toxic if eaten but the pellets are highly diluted making it edible and pure Arnica has been classified by the FDA as an unsafe herb.  I only recommend getting homeopathic diluted tablets and not using the herb itself orally.  It has been used since the 1500s it’s a yellow flower that grows in Europe and the US also known as Leopard Bane, and it will be your new best friend.

6. Foam Rolling

Self-Myofascial release (SMR) is something that I hope you have heard of and if you haven’t you need too. SMR is a corrective measure for muscle imbalances and helps to reduce trigger points which are those tender muscle soreness you get those extra sore spots.  It is best to do SMR before and after workouts along with stretching.

Foam Rollers come in many shapes and sizes and is necessary for anyone who exercises period whether its regularly or sporadically you should Foam Roll before and after every workout can help prepare you for your next work out.  I am a Trigger Point Ambassador, and I use a variety of their products. I love their products because they have created great tools to make foam rolling simple and straightforward. My personal favorite is the Grid Stick it’s a hand-held foam roller that works wonders on my traps, neck, arms, and back. I can use it by myself or with one of my mini assistance.

I am also in over with their massage balls put your lacrosse balls to the side and try the MB1 or MB5 Massage ball. It is entirely unbelievable on my shoulders, pecs, and hips.  It’s layered, and each color is a different density it’s like a deep tissue massage in all the right places. I use it pretty much daily. The MB1 is a half the size of the MB5 measuring at 2.6 inches in diameter the MB5 is 5 inches both are great investments if you plan on being active.

5. Oils and Soaps- Or in Soap

“When I was at Rugged maniacs this summer cheering some of my clients on I got to try Dirty Bird Energy Soap sample.  They also gave me the Recover Soap that comes in their resealable container.  I am in love this soap is fantastic and junk free made with all natural ingredients. “No Parabens, No Sulfates, Only the Good Stuff!”

It is a fantastic exfoliate which is what helps you absorb the muscle relieving ingredients. It contains Arnica, Eucalyptus and Rosemary extract which is the ultimate combination of body repair oil treatments.  It helps to reduce the bruising and inflammation, and it is invigorating coming out of the shower. I also love the case because it makes it easy to travel in my gym bag and keep it away from the lil divas!

4.  Diet

I can’t stress enough that we have to honor our temple. How we fuel our temples affects every aspect of how it functions if you want to be your best you have to treat it that way.  There have been studies that show that people who ate a whole based nutrient dense diet that has little to no processed food recovered at a faster rate than those who don’t.

3. Water

A study in the Journal of Athletic Training concluded that if you are dehydrated, you can increase the “severity” of DOMs or delayed onset muscle soreness which occurs within 12 to 48 hours after exercise. It is the soreness from your muscle repairing themselves and growing. It is critical to muscle injuries and tears from strength training. When your body cells don’t have enough water that can delay the protein synthesis used to repair your muscles. Dehydration can also cause the breakdown of muscle tissue which is defeating your workouts.   Drinking water before and after exercise will help reduce muscle soreness and promote growth. Water is a naturally powerful way to ease your pain.

2. Massage and Stretching 

Massages and Stretching are essential for muscle soreness and workout recovery. I know you have heard it before but it so true. I really didn’t realize the value of Self-Myofascial and Stretching until attending school and practicing it myself. I am guilty of wanting to jump into the workout and get it done. I have found when I foam roll and stretch first I can challenge myself greater in the workout and the recovery isn’t as painful.  Starting the habit of warm-up and cooldown can be helpful in decreasing muscle soreness.

1.Heating Pad and Ice Pack

Old school remedy that is effective and can work I would use this for ongoing aches, pains, and injury. I think we always want an instant fix but applying all of these suggestions and taking 20-40 minutes to REST can be really effective in reducing muscle soreness. Alternating heat and ice can help with blood flow and help reduce inflammation resulting in pain relief. Some inexpensive ways to create a “Cryo pack” or ice pack. Take a water bottle about half full and freeze it wrap it in a towel and apply or you can create an amazing heat pack with a cup of rice in a sock. Tie it up and put it in the microwave for 30 seconds and get a fantastic adaptable heating pad to relieve your soreness.
You don’t have to suffer in pain or need to take pain relievers to cope.  I hope that with these suggestions you can stay out the pharmacy and live your best life pain-free.
What is your go-to for pain relief?
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Fitness Fitness and Health

What’s Bible and Bootcamps?

Have you ever looked back at where you’ve been and it all of a sudden make sense? That’s has been the last few months for me.  A few years ago, I was lost (Spiritually and Mentally), depressed, anxious, creeping up the scale and desperate for a way out.  It wasn’t until I completely surrendered all aspects of my life and sought God’s counsel that I found a direction to take.  Then a year ago almost to the day I had a “God idea.” I was scrolling through Facebook and an add for my current college popped up. I never thought of going back to school but as if I was forcefully pushed I pressed “Send me more info.” Within minutes I got a phone call that has literally changed this lost girl to having a clear vision that gets even more high definition by the day. Honestly, if I list the blessings that God has given my family and I in the last year it is nothing short of amazing and all God’s glory.  Well, here I am two years later with a degree in Fitness and Exercise Science.  Two NASM certifications and amazing opportunities to lead people to God’s kingdom through fitness.

Taking HUGE Risk

I believe so much in this vision God has given me to build a community of women that glorify God by honoring their temple and need to be fueled by faith.  After  prayers of “How”, “Why” and “Who.” God led me to an amazing team to get all of these floods of ideas into an amazing program that can help women:

  1. Increase their dependence on God through their weight loss journey
  2. Lose weight efficiently and effectively while learning lifestyle habits to help them honor their temple.
  3. Increase energy so they can be the best soldiers for God’s army and gaining confidence to lead people to Christ.

I wasn’t sure how that was going to look but slowly and methodically just as God has ordained and with a lot of inspiration my team and I have been drafting up an amazing program for women to use everywhere.

I wanted to make sure that my program addressed all fitness levels and spiritual needs.  My six-week transformation program has become a customized program that is designed uniquely for each women’s strengths and weaknesses.  Giving you all the tools that you need to make the transformation in your life.

Bibles and Bootcamps will be a Six Week Transformation Program. We will walk daily for Forty-two days in the Word and increase our dependence on Christ on our fitness journey.

Bibles and Bootcamp is an intense, unique, six-week transformation to boost your potential to get dramatic results inside and out. Bibles and Bootcamp has a three-step approach.

  1. Spiritually and Mentally we will help you change your thought patterns, increase your dependence on God and enhance your self-confidence and get rid of beliefs that have you held you back before.
  2. Nutritionally we are going to show you what to eat that really fuels you.  Educating you and on healthy eating guidelines and providing a Biblically based meal plan that will help support you in your goals.
  3. Physically we are going to apply the spiritual discipline and living sacrifice into a customizable workout program that increases your strength, flexibility, core, and endurance.

Bibles and Bootcamps will also be delivering some invaluable tools with our six-week program.

  • 6 week program
  • Grocery list of approved foods
  • Healthy Eating guidance, recipes, and accountability
  • Customizable workouts delivered on any device or in print
  • Daily tips and training
  • Group Q&A

I have pulled every tool out for this to be an amazing program. Utilizing my knowledge in Fitness Exercise Science.  Several groups Beta testing and tweaking. Also, teaming up with some amazing Christian Women authors.  Our series will tackle Food Fixation, Dependence on God and Nutrient Based Eating.

I’ve researched and spent countless hours exploring what Christian women need to stop sabotaging their efforts and start thriving.  What I have found that a key factor is your Spiritual relationship with God and a proven workout.  My Beta testers’ are also seeing some pretty amazing results.

“De is amazing I can tell you! She is a precious woman of God and she knows her stuff…she got me started on my fitness journey earlier this year and I lost some serious pounds (over 40) under her direction.” -Ammie B.

 

 

 

“Bibles and bootcamp has been an amazing experience. This is my first time putting my faith and Fitness together in one and the feeling is amazing. I have already starting see results after only 3 weeks and I’m excited for what left to come.”

— Dana

“I love it all. The nutrition is simplified. The workouts are fun, yet challenging and De is an awesome coach & spiritual support. ”

— V.T.
 

I cannot wait to see what this program does for you in your life.  I am honored and privileged to get to cheer you on the entire way.  If you’re looking to find a way to Honor God’s temple at it’s best and tired of the on again off again plans and looking for something that is going to sustain you inside and out than you must join us for our First program! If you are looking for more information check out some frequently asked questions www.BiblesAndBootcamps.com

Have you ever used your faith to fuel your workouts?

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Figure Competition Fitness Fitness and Health Self

My Figure Update: Overcoming a Quitters Mentality

I have quit a lot of things in my life. It’s actually my go-to exit plan. If it’s hard just give up and move on, right?  I’ve quit relationships, ideas, business ventures, and opportunities.  Moved on and never looked back.  I am also one of those people who acts on ideas. I don’t always research what I am getting into I get an idea in my head and I just go for it until it gets hard and then I quit and move on to the next big idea.  A pattern that I didn’t even realize until recently. My impulsive decision making has had its advantages and allowed me to do some pretty fun and amazing things but long term goals is where I tend to fall short. As you know I have been doing this Figure Competitor journey.  I originally thought that it would help me to get in the best shape of my life which it has but I also did it because it was a fun idea that I have had in the back of my mind for many years and had an opportunity to take advantage.  

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.

1 Corinthians 9:24

 When the Sparkle Wears off

Like anything, new things are fun and exciting. You usually are all in and zealous to achieve your goal.  It’s the hard work, disappointments, and length of time that led to where I often go. I’ll just quit and move on until something happened with my daughter that made me step back and reflect.  I have three little diva’s that keep my life full, active and yes, drama filled as you can imagine.  My middle I see a lot of me in her maybe a little too much. Like her Mama she approached life with a let’s try something new mentality and like her Mama she gets bored and moves on easily.  We were riding in the car one day and my daughter was telling us how she wanted to quit camp.  My husband and I were stressing the importance of finishing what you started when a comment my husband made struck me.  I had said, “She always quits when she loses interest in something.” without hesitation, my husband said, “Yea, she gets that from you.” OUCH! But honestly, he is so right.  So, then as any good Mama guilt struck and self-reflection.  Yep, another similarity that we share.  

Too Far to Quit

So, here I am at the end of my Figure Journey well approaching the end maybe and things have gotten less fun and more challenging. The thing about Fitness Competition is nutrition is probably the most important part it allows you to look a certain way. This sport is also about aesthetics and a lot of competitors have a poor body image although they have amazing physiques.  I’ve started to learn how to pose and I am not a fan.  I love lifting weights I’ve gotten used to the nutrition but as far as the posing not only is that not fun it doesn’t serve me in anything but competing. I don’t really care about the makeup and the bikini part I am not that kind of girl. I just want to do it and get it done and said “I did it!” and move on. So, as I struggled with posing my immediate reaction was aw that’s okay I’ll just move on and try something else but that conversation in the car with my husband replayed in the back of my mind.  

Work in Progress

In the past few years, I have been refining my life making different choices and trying to live my best life.  We are always evolving and changing and as you have witnessed through my journey I have spiritually, mentally and physically changed my body but I am nowhere near being the complete package. Nor do I think I ever will be like everyone else I have things to work on, lots and lots and lots of things to work and overcoming a quitters mentality is one of them. So, how? How do I change a habit and replace it with a better one?  Any habit that can be successfully changed has to be replaced with something that you enjoyed. This is no different. I have decided to quit my quitter’s mentality by quitting. Say what? Stay with me!

You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them,

2 Timothy 3:14

How I am overcoming quitting

I am quitting setting up roadblocks to achieving my goals.

I am quitting acting on impulse and doing more research.

I am quitting putting limits on my ability.

I am quitting putting a time frame on my goal.

I am quitting thinking that I have to be the best at everything the first time.

I am quitting setting the example to my girls that when you get bored or discouraged to move on.

Things are hard and you often want to bail and move on I know I do but I have experienced the results of persevering and seeing something through to the end and so that is what I plan on striving to do.

 

“Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 3:12-14

Do you have any suggestions for a quitters mindset?

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Faith & Self Care Faith Journey Fitness Fitness and Health Weightloss Journey

Not an Overnight Success: 7 things I’ve learned on my journey to lose 80 lbs.

I can’t believe that it has been another year. It seems both fast and long. For last years anniversary post check it out here! Two years seem like a long time but looking back it has flown. I started this blog three years ago as a Christian Mom Blog I didn’t know what I was doing then, and I still don’t know what “Christian Mom Blog” means but it has evolved over the last two years it has become a faith and fitness blog.

August 4, 2015

Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us. Isaiah 8:10

Two years today after trying on my own to figure out this daunting weight loss thing joined an online exercise program   It was exactly what I needed to get started a plan and some guidance. She also encouraged her members to take pictures to show progress, and I am grateful for those to look back at and see my progress. I would have never thought to do that. At the time I hated the idea, and the cost of a gym so, at home workouts worked for me. I also said that I would “never work out at a gym again,” haha.

Fast Forward

Fast forward two years and what I thought was going to be a temporary fix; I was going to get real skinny quick. Little did I know not only was I going to “get skinny” but it was going to be a roller coaster of highs and lows expectations and disappointments and an internal journey as well. It hasn’t all been bad.

Blessed through the Journey

This has also given me the opportunity to have fun adventures like working out with celebrity trainers and trying all kinds of new equipment, supplements, and tools.

 

Never Say Never

I am teaching group fitness classes at 5 am in the morning which I never imagined I would be up and moving at 5 am much less teaching other people too. I told my friend who kept referring me that I would never do group fitness and now that I have I absolutely love it.

A passion ignited

I am 10 weeks away from obtaining my degree in Fitness and Exercise Science, and I am working at an amazing gym (which I also said that I would never do; “work at a gym)”. I am learning so much from a great group of passionate trainers.

FaithFueled is a Lifestyle

Honoring my temple has now become my way of life how I live my life. The choices I make how I plan my day involves my mental space, health, exercise and healthy eating.

More than just a weight loss journey

I started on Periscope and Instagram just sharing about my journey which turned into a 30-day personal prayer challenge that I gave myself to honor my temple.  Those 30 days completely changed my perspective of how I can use God in my life. I had always put boundaries and limits on what I could pray.

Change in Purpose

I didn’t think God cared if I wanted to be skinny or not but through my prayers and devotion my want to be skinny changed for want to be healthy both including spiritually, physically and medically.  It gave me a passion for honoring my temple meaning what I put into it, how I treat it, who I involve in my emotional life and I went to the Bible for the lead in everything.

Stronger Together

I had a relationship with Christ before this journey but the peace I and intimacy that I never knew I craved has been met and continues to grow through this journey. When you turn to God for the little things you begin to turn to Him for everything and having a daily passionate relationship with God has been more fulfilling than being skinny or lifting a weight. The most exciting part of this journey is that I pray every day that I can be a light and bring glory to God through all that I do.

Humbled to be used

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God–this is your true and proper worship. Romans 12:1

God has shown me in the last two year many women and some men that I have inspired through my journey. I am humbled and honored to serve God through fitness. It is amazing that in two years I have been able to change and transform and it is really truly because of God that I am where I am today. So, today I am celebrating the day that literally changed the course of my life. I can honestly say that I would not be where I am today. So, this is my physical change in the last two years Year to date, but I don’t think you can take a picture for the internal change this experience has had on my family and myself.

The things I have learned in two years

  1. Give it to God first don’t try to do it yourself you’ll save time and stress.
  2. Be consistent even if you don’t see progress.
  3. If it isn’t working try something different you don’t have to stick with the thing you started.
  4. Yes, food is important not only what you eat but how and when you eat it!
  5. Discipline is needed and accountability
  6. Regardless what stage you’re at love and appreciate where you are right now while you are working towards what you want and always remember your Why!
  7. The only fix is your mindset that quick and easy doesn’t cut it hard work is worth the reward.

What’s Next?

I now have a new goal to compete in a Fitness competition.  Similar to weight loss, the mental is hard, the workouts are hard, and the food is the worse. I want to quit from day to day, and the highs and lows are the same but I know I have the victory. It will take more time than I want but I will get there just like I got here.

Work in Progress

There is a lot I still have yet to learn and work on if not physically then spiritually and emotionally. By no means am I even finished I like to think of it as just getting started on the next chapter, and I am excited to see what is written. If I could leave anyone with any advice is if you haven’t started, start today because it’s just another step closer to your goals. Remember it takes time so give yourself

time!

How can I help you start your journey or encourage you?

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Fitness

IDEA World Convention & Blogfest 2017 Recap

IDEA Convention Recap

Sitting back scrolling through pictures of another exciting, re-energizing blog fest! Now I am about to spill as much as I can remember so this is a grab something to grab your LaCroix 😉 and read about my experience at IdeaWorld Convention. Now, everything I mention in this post has been sponsored, but this is entirely my perspective and opinion.

This year was an entirely different experience than last year! First of all, I am not a new blogger wide eyed and bushy tailed. When I left blog fest last year the information and knowledge that I learned and applied allowed me some fantastic opportunities with my blog. It also allowed me to connect and collaborate with some great companies and gave me a better idea of the world of fitness blogging. When I came this year I came prepared to soak it all in, continue to make connections and meet some new friends in the blogger world. I wasn’t as apprehensive to say Hi to someone new and ask them their story, and I was pleasantly surprised by the amazing and inspiring women that showed up a blog fest this year.

Strong By Zumba Certified

Before I even began BlogFest, I attended the Strong by Zumba Certification at which I am now a Strong By Zumba certified instructor, Woot woot! The certification was kind of challenging last 9 hours with a 1-hour lunch break and about 6-7 hours of exercise and education on the program. It was a sweaty fun day, and now I can teach others this new dynamic workout. I am going to share why you should be trying Strong by Zumba in your town, but I am thrilled to be able to be an instructor in the South Jersey Area. It was so cool being instructed by the best and one that personally stood out for me which was Ms. Jeanette Jenkins! She has been teaching “in Lycra” for 27 years and gave us so many tips and tricks! AND she is a woman of open faith, YES!! Kelley Buzzard is a BEAST, and she kicked our butts all day long with Abraham Martinez taking it to the POWER level all day long. The three of them left us spent but psyched which says something for their enthusiasm for STRONG by Zumba!

35 Year Celebration

Blogfest is a recent extension of the 35-year celebration of the Idea World Fitness Convention where fitness professionals from all over the world gather to learn and network with each other. The place is electric, and the passion is fervent at Idea World, but the camaraderie of thousands of strangers all to help improve people’s health and fitness is contagious. It was just what I needed to continue to ignite my passion for helping people through fitness.

Sweating Pink

Blogfest is coordinated by a group of women from Fit Approach who’s hard work and dedication has in the past two years created an amazing experience for bloggers. Blogfest is educational workshops and opportunities for fitness bloggers to hone their skill and get up and personal with some leading companies in the fitness and food industry. This year’s line up was power packed with inspiration and leaders in the fitness industry.

Carleeh M from Healthy Socialite a fellow Sweat Pink Ambassador blogger organized a walk/run before the day of events. She had me at the walk because I only run if I have to but I prefer a good stroll. I also wanted to catch up and meet other bloggers, so my roomies Aida from Girlfriends with Goals and Shenie from Sheylu Fitness joined the walk around Vegas. Every year I come to blog fest other bloggers that not only inspire and influence lots of women but inspire and motivate me too. It was nice to be in such great company of fun ladies willing to venture out into the hood of Vegas, haha (but really it’s pretty ghetto in some spots). We did find some picture perfect moments along the way, and in true blogger, the style had lots of selfie moments. We also recruited some of the Casino staff to practice his photog skills. After the warm up both socially and physically we made it just in time to begin.

Lets’ Eat

The best way to put a group of bloggers in a good mood is through food (at least that reign true for me) Siggi’s® and California Almonds® provided not only tasty snacks but also gave us recipes to make ourselves. You haven’t had an almond until you have had a California Almond they really are delicious. I personally am nuts about nuts and can take it overboard and learned of the perfect portion. Which is 1-2-3 or 1 ounce equals 23 almonds basically, telling me to stop De at 23 too much of a good thing is never good and that mainly runs true with nuts?

As we happily snacked (anytime I eat I am happily doing it) and we got to learn from some of the best in the industry. ‘A great blogger Katy Widrick gives us some applicable tip on how to make our old content new again. So, get ready for some refresh in the future. It was great to get some tips that you could easily apply. Then we got an opportunity to hear from our sponsors Great Lakes Gelatin which are a long standing gelatin company in the industry. I already knew of the benefit of Collagen and consumed Collagen daily but was great to know of the quality that Great Lakes puts into their products and another option for my supplement needs.

Then we got to hear some knowledge bombs from Lindsay Valdez anyone who works virtually knows the importance of SEO yet might not necessarily know how to optimize it! Well, you should have been at blog fest because Lindsay did an excellent job of breaking it down and making it simple. With the 5 Most Important SEO elements on a blog post. I have personally did webinars and self-studies and the value that her presentation gave far exceeded my hours self-study lots of great information.

Opening Ceremonies

My favorite part of Idea World Convention is the Opening Ceremonies and Keynote presentation. This is when you get to gather in a room of the best in the industry, and we get to celebrate the achievements of those who have been serving people through fitness. Women like Jessica Matthews who won the Idea Fitness Instructor of the Year and Debbie Bellinger who was the Idea Program Director of the Year and Michael Piercy a Jersey Native who was the Idea Personal Trainer of the Year. The admiration and respect that I have for these individuals and the fact they all showed glory to God inspires me to work to achieve and inspire others as they have done. The highlight is always for me Elaine Lalane who is 91 years young presenting Todd Durkin with the Jack Lalane Award. Todd Durkin inspired me personally last year at Blogfest with words of encouragement on my weight loss journey and yet again his “Contagaism” motivated me to do better. Idea World Convention is 35 years old and us fitness professional was amused and entertained by the founders Peter and Kathie Davis dancing routine! It was so much fun!

IDEA World Fitness & Nutrition Expo

We got to explore the Idea Convention & Nutrition Expo which is also a great experience. This is where you can find what is new in the industry from workouts, equipment, apparel, and food. Anything that you can think it’s like a playground for me and I was ready to try EVERYTHING! I always find a few things that stick out to me every year and this year was the Spyder 360 and the Axle Workout! As soon as I saw these two things I had to strap in and give them a spin.

The Axle Workout is a barbell that is affixed to a wheel which can add a whole new dynamic to your workout. I am hoping to get certified and become a Master Trainer in September. This thing is a simple exercise equipment that challenges your core stabilization because it is on wheels. The Axle can be used in so many different ways, and I am excited to add this to my skill set.

The Spyder 360 is something that appealed to me for my husband’s business especially, and that was the Spyder 360. I am excited to work with this equipment to help build strength and stability in my clients as well as use it for ACL tear strength and stability exercises for my husband’s players. I will be working with the Spyder 360 in the fall and sharing why this new equipment is a must have item in the fitness world and for your workouts.

There was so much more than that I met Elaine Lalanne, Bennie Wylie from NBC Strong! who actually remembered me from last year and instead of encouraging me to continue on my journey as he did the year before this year his inspiring words was to share with others which is exactly what I plan to do using a lot of what I have learned at IDEA World and will continue to strive to learn more.

Tasted lots of different protein bars, nuts, an alternative sweetener that I think I can get down with it’s made of Monk Fruit and your body processes it as a her I am excited to try some new recipes with it and research the benefits of this sweetener that I got from Lakanto.

Day Three, Second Day of BlogFest

The next day I was tired, and ModelFit was the morning wake up I needed. I was grateful I didn’t have to jump around, but the workout was an intense balance. I still got a sweat on without all the jumping and enjoyed the exercise that Propel Propel Water provided for us! Thirst was quenched with my sweat session.

I was very excited to meet Jorge Cruise author of tiny and full™: Eat more, weigh less, and turn off hunger all day. I look forward to trying out a few recipes and reading the book and learning more about harnessing the power of thyroid boost. After the ModelFIT workout, I was happy for breakfast even though I am always glad to eat. I loved the grain free granola and needed to have that in my life.

 

I think I have figured out a way to be with my VIP Clients and train them! I am excited to explore the possibilities with GymGO and know that my clients would enjoy this service too. GymGO allows clients and their trainers have one on one or group video Sessions.

I have a guest blog for a couple of other outlets, but I can now hone the craft with some tips on “Everything You need to know to make money” lecture from Amanda Vogel was excellent information on how to continue to make use blogging as an income source. I found her presentation to be great and will be applying some things to my blog.

Have you ever written off something over a bad experience just to find out years later you’ve been missing out? That would be me! I had fig Newton’s as a kid and wrote figs off as a thing I won’t eat until I tried the fresh and dried California figs. They were so good and so good for you? I have been missing out all these years. Now I plan on adding these little yummies into my diet pronto! They are loaded with Fiber, Antioxidants, calcium, potassium, and magnesium I rather get my micronutrients from food instead of pills and plan on experimenting with figs in the kitchen.

Experiencing Todd Durkin

I just keep experiencing Todd Durkin, haha LAst year, I attended Todd Durkins Bootcamp at Idea World, and it was a highlight of my trip. I belive it was one of those many moments you have you on your journey that propels you to greatness.  This time it was an overwhelming experience as well.  Todd shared his story with us of trials and triumph and what pricked my heart especially is how he gave and showed all glory to God.  While speaking, I had so many ah ha moments of things that I have been struggling with in the recent months.

Todd’s emphasis on “Be Different” and “Tell your Story” still resignates in the back of my mind.  The fact that he openly is a faithful man of God also made me realize I am not the only one.  I share my feelings on how faith and fitness work together daily and weekly I get feedback from all sorts that can sometimes be discouraging especially fellow Christians but that’s what is different is about.  Todd also gave us his new book The WOW Book! Which I will be reviewing soon.  I feel it is no coincidence that our paths crossed again this year and I thank God for using Todd to reenergize and give me clarity and focus on what I have feel I have been called to do.

Trigger Point Ambassador

The remainder of the blog fest was networking in different aspects. First, we listen to the panel discussion with the sponsors of blog fest to find out how we as bloggers can build long term relationships. Then we were given the opportunity to pitch directly to our core sponsors of blog fest. As well as an opportunity to got to the expo and network and pitch. I can’t wait to share some of the great products that I will be representing this year. I am grateful to be a Trigger Point Ambassador this year. I will be showing you the value of Self Myo Fascial (SMR) with Trigger Point products I find SMR and stretching to be a significant part of fitness and can’t wait to share more about their dynamic products.

Winging It

There were so many highlights to my trip and so much to share. I also got to meet two-time Olympic medalist Gracie Gold on Friday night at the Red Bull Networking party and not only did I get to meet her but I got some more knowledge bombs dropped at the party. I miss research everything never really put much research into Red Bull products and ingredients. I couldn’t read them, so I wrote them off entirely but some of the long unpronounceable ingredients that you can find on the back of can is actually things that I would consume other wise such as Vitamin B12 I also found out what the ingredient of Taurine actually was among all the other things that Red Bull is doing.

They are not only helping give you wings, but they are also making people fly with their Not For Profit Research Foundation “Wings for Life.” This research foundation is for spinal cord research, and it is a “simultaneous global race that is dedicated to supporting spinal cord injury research. It is very cool that this race begins at the same time across the globe so whether it’s 2 am or 5 pm everyone is starting at the same time to raise money to help find a cure for spinal cord injury. You can learn more or donate at www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com It was a great night and Red Bull really hooked us up with great food, some Red Bull to sip on and some JayBird which is just what this lifter needs they are fabulous, and a big thank you to Red Bull!

I couldn’t stay too long at the Red Bull Networking because I had to also network with my fellow bloggers and our great sponsors who had given us so much yummy food, tips, and opportunity. I also wanted to say good bye to bloggers I may not see for the rest of the weekend which was different CEC (Continuing Education) classes for me, and I will be sharing “All da things” I learned over the weekend.

Happy Hour

My third networking party of the night I was losing steam but the energy at BlogFest Happy Hour was great! Was able to play around on the TRX while sipping a LaCroix cocktail nibbling on Figs and Cheese from California Figs. It was a great night, and I was toast by the end. I had to get back to our room shower and pass out in that order. The next two days were filled with workshops and workouts from a different specialist from all over the country and some world. I took a lot of course on TRX Programming, Functional Fitness, and Generation X and my brain are still throbbing.

BIG Thank You

This amazing opportunity would not have been possible without the sponsors, and I want to say thank you!  California Figs, Great Lakes Gelatin, GymGO and Siggi’s as well as General Mill’s for breakfast. Propel Water and Strong by Zumba for the workouts. Todd Durkin for the inspiration, Arctic Zero, Eggland’s Best, La Croix, Qalo, Takeya, TRX, California Almond®, and especially Fit Approach and Idea Convention this was all possible because of you and thank you!

Inspiration

I think the best part of the entire trip was the fellow bloggers that I have met.  Talk about some inspirational stories there are some amazing women and men who have amazing stories that should be shared. I am hoping to be able to collaborate with a few and share why they inspire me and I know they will inspire you too.  Blog fest is an amazing experience and every year I learn and grow so much from it. I am definitely going to be there in 2018 God willing and if you are a fitess and healthy blogger, enthusiast or professional you should join me there too!

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