“Book vs Movie” Podcast Minnesota Public Radio Interview!
Rachel Platten singing “Fight Song” at SoulCycle x Target
Hey there! Hi there! Ho there!
January is just flying by me and for those keeping score—I am still keeping my New Year’s resolution and trying to learn all of my student’s names with the Name Tag Challenge. Every single week I am feeling more confident in my ability to remember them and I can feel a difference in how students are reacting to one another by learning each other’s name. It makes for a more convivial environment and what is not to love about that?
The last couple of weeks have been busy for me with writing this Blog and some other work I have been up to so let’s get to it, shall we?
SoulCycle X Target Tour:
I had the pleasure recently to take place on the opening night of the SoulCycle x Target in New York City which is part of a ten-city tour across the U.S. where you can enjoy free SoulCycle classes thanks to Target. Click on the link before to find out how you can sign up for the remaining dates here:
January 29-31: Atlanta, Denver and Nashville
February 5-7: Minneapolis and Los Angeles
When I arrived at the NYC class who did I spy with my little eye but Miss Nicole of Fitfulfocus.com and I grabbed a quick picture of us:
Me and Nicole!
The ride was pretty incredible with three top notch instructors and a DJ playing behind them on an elevated stage. After a 45-minute sweat session we were treated to the Rachel Platten’s“Fight Song” when all of a sudden the singer herself took the stage—really! I quickly jumped off my bike and grabbed this photo of her in action.
Rachel Platten
Overall it was a very fun experience and I wish I could have had you all there with me!
Fit Bottomed Girls Hits:
As some of you know—I am a NYC contributor for the popular fitness Blog Fit Bottomed Girls and this month I have had a whole bunch of articles featured there including:
My own personal favorite core exercises I use in my classes
Along with those features I have my very first workout on there as well which you can find right here (you’re welcome!)
Book Vs Movie Podcast News:
Margo Porras of She’s Nacho Mama’s Blog and I co-host the “Book Vs. Movie” podcast (that you can subscribe to via iTunes at this link) and we are started to get some media attention which is so nutty but awesome at the same time. Last week I had my first live radio interview with Wisconsin Public Radio’s “Central Time” which is an afternoon talk show.
Did you know that there will be 19 movies coming out this year that are based on books? Well I talk about the upcoming film season plus a few of my favorite (and least favorite) book to movie adaptations plus I took a few calls from listeners which made me nervous but ultimately I think it turned out well!
Our newest episode is “Psycho” by the way which you can also check out.
Oh well, that’s it for me today. I will be back soon with magazine reviews, playlists, reviews and so much more. Keep warm and dry folks (we are getting tons of snow here!)
(If you are reading this on a different site or a different feed than Brooklyn Fit Chick, it has been taken without permission.)
Brooklyn Fit Chick News & Notes New Year’s Resolution Special
“The Name Tag Challenge”
Plus:
“Book vs Movie” Podcast Episode Waiting to Exhale”
Unleashing My Inner Star Wars Geekiness
Update on My Piriformis Issue
Hey there! Hi there! Ho there!
It is 2016 and the only New Year’s Resolution I could muster up was to address a problem that has plagued me most of my life–the complete inability to remember people’s names RIGHT AFTER I have just been introduced to them. It’s a serious issue for me because as an instructor I meet new people every day.
Some introduce themselves to you at their first class and it sticks for the few weeks they attend. (Those people always disappear sooner than later!)
For me the problem is the unassuming regulars who spend a few hours a week with me and there is never a formal introduction. We just nod and say “hello, good morning, goodbye” and “have a great weekend!” and I try and tell myself that “it is NOT weird to ask their name at this point” but I chicken out each time.
I don’t want to come across as egocentric and not caring about the people just quietly go about the business of working out. So this year I decided to do something about it once and for all.
My 2016 New Year’s Resolution is to get to know the names of my students by bringing actual name tags to class to pass around to every one in attendance. Every single one which means I get a few exasperated eye rolls and whiny “but you already KNOW my name!” from some folks but mostly the results have been incredibly successful.
People usually say something along the lines of “aw—that is so sweet!” and cheerfully go along with it
Not only have I managed to start the process of remembering so many names but the students themselves feel like they know each other better. There is more of a sense of fellowship and belonging during my classes now which makes my NYC/Cynical heart grows a thousand times bigger each hour.
My plan is to keep this as part of my regular teaching regiment and will let you know how it goes. Here is how our sweaty spin room looked this past Saturday.
How do you remember other people’s names? Are you changing anything about how you teach this year?
Book Vs Movie Podcast News//We Are #270!
Margo Porras of She’s Nacho Mama’s Blog and I co-host the “Book Vs. Movie” podcast (that you can subscribe to via iTunes at this link) for over a year now and we are at #270 on iTunes chart out of over 25,000 TV and film podcasts which is pretty damn cool.
If you have any suggestions for us on your favorite book to movie adaptations, leave a comment below and/or at our Facebook Page. (We are always looking for ideas!)
The best thing tome come out of this podcast lately is working with people whose shows I admire including Dana Buckler of How is This Movie who had me on his show to talk all things Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
If you have any interest in the topic check it out and let me know what you think. And how do you feel about the lack of Rey merchandise on the market? (It’s a travesty in my opinion!)
In the meantime, listen to our latest episode talking about Waiting to Exhale. (Enjoy!)
Piriformis Trouble:
So after several weeks of dealing with a severe case of Piriformis Syndrome which is when the piriformis muscles (deep inside the glutes) compresses on the sciatic nerve causing a radiating pain down my right leg.
Sleeping on a heating pad, Ibuprofen and my Belle Body Buffer were my coping mechanisms and I was not seeing any improvement until one of my Facebook fans got in touch with me and recommended I try a few new stretches to my routine including a leg pull with a yoga strap which made the pain go away that very night.
Really! I have been pain-free and following this program every night since.
These are the images she sent to me which are not great quality but if you or anyone you know needs help with a similar issue—let me know! Happy to spread the love and help.
Oh well, that’s it for me today. I will be back soon with magazine reviews, playlists, reviews and so much more. Here’s to a 2016 that will help us all remember names and be pain-free!
(If you are reading this on a different site or a different feed than Brooklyn Fit Chick, it has been taken without permission.)
Hi All! I have been crazy busy lately and not able to get into my monthly reviews but am turning that around as of today. So let’s get it started!
Women’s Health Cover Star for December 2015:
One of the problems I have with cover interviews sometimes is that I just have NO idea who the person is so the motivation to read the whole thing can wane.
Sooo confession time…I am not a fan of Games of Thrones. Trust me when I say I have tried several times to watch but I can never keep track of the various characters or why I should love or hate them. (Fargo is my one show that has a labyrinth of a plot I can follow.)
Also it takes place in a time and place that feels unbearably stark and depressing to me. Much respect to those who are big fans but this is one show I am taking a pass on.
Anyhoo—actress Natalie Dormer is from the show as well as a recurring role in the Hunger Games movies and reading her interview she sounds like a super cool chick. Dormer is a super fit gal who loves running and is in fact training for the 2016 New York City Marathon on behalf of the charity “Team for Kids” (Go Natalie!)
She also practices yoga as often as she can and hikes in crazy places like Peru’s Inca Trail and Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro. (Wow!)
That’s all I have for this part so let’s keep on moving, shall we?
So what else is in this issue of Women’s Health?
Home Bar
Leave it to the Irish girl to love the story about booze the most but after attending so many holiday parties lately I realize I need to up my home entertaining game. The suggestion for a cocktail making tray filled with goodies is really appealing.
“15-Minute Workout: Go With the Flow”
If the holidays are driving you crazy (please tell me I am not the only one!) then try this 15-minute yoga workout from Yogalosophy author Mandy Ingber. You will be achieving your chi in no time!
“Let’s Do This!”
Idalis Velazquez offers several options here to create a quick workout that you can do a la carte. I love workouts that are both quick and effective and this section does the trick for me!
Gift Guide
The annual holiday gift guide is FILLED with page after page of goodies that give me a big case of the “I Wants” including this Handcase Desktop Pillow. I wish it was invented back when I was in high school and tried to nap in study hall! (It must work great on a plane as well. Ooh, how I would love this for me next red eye flight…)
Also, the gift guide features these DOPE Vincent Camuto boots making me most happy.
And now the rest of the best of this issue of Women’s Health:
“One Bowl Wonders” I love eating out of a bowl but I get so sick of soup. Not only is it never filling but it also doesn’t have much nutritional value so l liked the recipes featured here. Might make some amaranth this weekend as a matter of fact!
“James McEvoy” Really short interview here with the dreamy Scottish actor who says his favorite city would be a combo of NYC and Montreal (me too!) and his favorite song to sing in the shower is ‘Ship to Wreak” by Florence + the machine (me too!) So it appears we are perfect for each other. (A girl can dream, right?)
“Where’s the Beef” Going meatless can help you lose weight and boost your life expectancy. But can it also raise your anxiety and depression levels? Women’s Health takes a look at new research on vegetarianism and mental health issues.
Overall Grade:
A- Great issue filled with so many workouts and shopping pages it made my day!
“Book vs Movie” Podcast Episodes: The Bad Seed & The Silence of the Lambs
TomTom Spark Cardio & Music GPS Fitness Watch
Ryka, Under Armour and Brooks Running Events
“Hello Fresh” Meal Delivery Service
The Hamstring That Decided to Go Ow! (Belle Fit Body Buffer)
“The Ultimate Madonna Vs. Lady Gaga Playlist”
Hey there! Hi there! Ho there!
I am so sorry for my lack of posting lately—this past month I have been very busy with new clients (thankfully,) tons of fitness events to cover for Fit Bottomed Girls (my homies,) a hamstring strain that has baffled me, a delivery service to try out (which was amazing,) playlists to put together (they do not create themselves) and miles to go before I sleep. (A literary reference but also the truth—I am having major sleep issues lately–grrr!)
Well I am back and ready to talk about my latest news and notes for you beautiful people. So let’s get to it, shall we?
Brooklyn Fit Chick News & Notes:
Book Vs Movie Podcast News: Margo Porras of She’s Nacho Mama’s Blog and I co-host the “Book Vs. Movie” podcast (that you can subscribe to via iTunes at this link) and for the Halloween spooky season we decided to cover a couple of classics for horror fans. William March’sThe Bad Seed and Thomas Harris’The Silence of the Lambs which we are really proud of.
It’s funny how you do something just for the love of it and to release some creative energy out to the world and then you get pretty good at it! We produce, edit and promote every episode out of joy for books and movies and now we are getting thousands of downloads a month. Whoa!
(Does this sound like I am bragging? I hope not! I’m just excited about our journey.)
If any of you out there want to learn more about podcasting and how it can help expand your brand—let me know!
What are your favorite books to movies adaptations? I want to hear about them in the comments below!
Fitness Events a Plenty: I am the NYC reporter for Fit Bottomed Girls.com and because of that I get to attend many cool events and this past month has been some of my best yet. Such as…
TomTom Spark Cardio & Music GPS Fitness Watch Event: Are you familiar with TomTom products? They have GPS systems on the market and are mainly based in Holland and Boston which I think is really cool for some crazy reason.
Well, they are now entering the world of fitness by creating GPS watches that will hold up to 500 MP3s, can sync with your playlists, count your steps and calories, offer coaching which you can use with Bluetooth headphones, help you train for marathons, cycling, swimming, the treadmill and more. Plus, it is waterproof!
You can read an early review of the TomTom Spark Cardio & Music GPS Fitness Watch from Backcountry.com and here is a look at it as it appears on my arm right now. It sits right next to my Fitbit jewelry from my new client Bezels & Bytes and I plan to use both in my training for the new few months and will report on it soon.
The event included a super fun workout that I could participate in as my hamstring was bothering me so I took a picture of the room with my fellow fitness peeps and it turns out my Blogger buddy Nicole of Fitfulfocus.com was sitting on the floor in green tights right in front of me and I totally missed her! You can see her for yourself here (Nicole–I will make it up to you!)
Rykä Kinetic: The makers of the women-only fitness gear brand trotted out some of their upcoming spring and summer collections and gifted me with the Kinetic trainer which I plan to break in this week. The pink box attracted my kitty (Sweet Sarah) and I have to let all you fitness pros know that you can earn tons of discounts with them by joining Ryka fit so get right on it! (Photo of Kinetic and Sweet Sarah)
Under Armour: I love this brand for their tech gear and beautiful style and their upcoming collections do not disappoint. I will post a Spring trends feature soon enough but in the meantime I got this lovely chunky knit collection as part of my goodie bag. (Thanks Under Armour!)
Brooks Running: I had three events in one night to go to and I was cranky, hungry and tired when I checked out the upcoming 2016/2017 collections for Brooks Running (THE running shoe brand I hear about most from my marathon loving peeps.) Loved everything I saw and begged for samples which hopefully I will get to try out soon for a gear roundup.
They had an artist at the event as well creating an artwork designed to honor NYC runners. They asked me what is my favorite part of the NYC marathon I told them it was cheering on all of the participants so they included it into the piece—see!
Hello Fresh As part of my upcoming piece on how to keep your New Year’s resolutions by using a food delivery service plan and I was keyed into Hello Fresh as they are the largest home food-delivery service globally, which offers subscribers a variety of delicious and healthy meals made of farm-fresh, seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients – all pre-measured and conveniently delivered to their doorsteps. They work with the country’s best purveyors to deliver premium quality ingredients in every box.
I loved my first meals with them including butter-braised chicken with thyme roasted carrots. Will let you know when that feature runs in January!
Hamstring Trouble: After years of cycling way too many miles and looking for every reason in the world to NOT take regular yoga classes I finally have a repetitive motion injury—a strained hamstring. People, I am in pain! For the last few weeks I have been icing and stretching it as best that I can but one day (in a pouty mood) I mention on Twitter my injury and the reps from BelleCore Body Buffer got in touch with me to try out their product to see if it could help me.
The Baby Belle Fit is an easy-to-handle massager that enhances stretching, soothes sore joints, warms up the muscles and help speed muscle recovery. I was a little dubious if it would work (you only need to use it for five minutes tops per muscle group) but guess what—it did help! I have been using it twice a day for the last week (morning and night) on my hamstrings and my IT band and am very happy with the results so far. I will discuss more in a future column talking about how to recover from injuries but for those of you creating a “wish list” for the holidays—this could be a dream gift for many of you!
Lastly today—I wanted to pass along my newest playlist for Fit Bottomed Girls—the Madonna vs. Lady Gaga showdown. If you are a fan of either of them, let me know what you think. Also—send me song ideas because I need to jazz up my playlists. Thank you in advance!
Oh well, that’ all for me this week. I will be back soon with magazine reviews, playlists, reviews and so much more. Later gators!
(If you are reading this on a different site or a different feed than Brooklyn Fit Chick, it has been taken without permission.)
Chicago P.D. star Sophia Bush is on the cover and though I haven’t caught that show yet I remember her from One Tree Hill from over ten years ago. AND I can mention actually getting to meet her then because of my job with YM magazine (a now much-missed teen publication) at the time.
Anyway, Sophia is 33 now and credits her 10-minute morning meditation to keeping her sane and even recommends an app called “Headspace” to help with this which I downloaded right away. (It’s neat!)
She lost her ex-boyfriend Google executive Dan Fredinburg when he trekked to Mount Everest and there was an earthquake during his climb. This experience has been completely devastating for Sophia and made her realize how precious life is.
Sophia relies on the aforementioned meditation and her morning 2-mile runs to keep centered.
Apropos of nothing else I really love the Alexander Wang dress she is wearing on the cover…
So what else is inside the September Health?
“Yoga for Killer Arms”
Yoga and Pilates instructor Kristin McGee demonstrates how to perform a proper chaturanga to strengthen your upper body. (It took me months to figure out how to do these at first.)
“Your Better Leg (and Butt!) Plan”
Gwyneth’s favorite fitness guru, Tracy Anderson, is a regular in the pages of Health and she is famous for complicated leg lifts with multiple (and I mean multiple) reps that will leave you begging for mercy. This page will give you just that.
“Coconut Oil Hacks”
I am one of those annoying coconut oil evangelists who will regale you with how many purposes it serves in my life but check out this page and read it for yourself. You will thank me later. (You’re welcome!)
“Love All”
I am not a very good tennis player but LOVE the outfits and some of the items featured here can be worn to any workout. Win/win, people!
And now the rest of the best of this issue of Health:
“Your Memory: A User’s Manual” It is my goal to improve my ability to memorize and remember things. (Like knowing exactly when my mother is planning to visit which I screwed up by 24 hours this morning. True story!) I found that these pages give great tips on how to do just that. (Yes, I will work to apply them.)
“60 Beauty Breakthroughs” I love me some beauty stories and here we have new products for skin care, body lotions, make-up, nail colors and hair care. Love!
“5 Reasons You’re Always Hungry” I used to have a ravenous appetite after starting a new diet and would want to just eat non-stop. Anyhoo—if you have that issue they have advice here on how to stop the munchies from taking over your life.
“9 Probiotic Foods You Have to Try” Included here are Kvass, sauerkraut, kefir and my sister’s favorite thing in the world—kombucha!
Confession time—I have never seen one episode of Keeping Up with the Kardashians. I know they are insanely famous for…um, going to places well-dressed? I am also aware as a social media person that all of the K’s (Kim, Kourtney, Kendall; Kylie, Kris and the Women’s Health cover gal Khloe) have millions of followers on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc.
Brands pay them for every retweet, repost and shout out whilst they traverse the globe in an array of outfits.
Yet I have NO idea how to differentiate any of the girls except for Khloe who is taller and tougher looking than the rest of the K’s. She always looks fierce and ready to have a great time or kick ass at any moment.
Something tells me Khloe and I could be friends so I am happy to hear how she gets healthy. The woman looks amazing on the cover (not a stick figure and sculpted) and I want to give her a chance.
The first page of the interview I could not read because they printed it with a wheat field background. Look for yourself!
(Hmm, the scan seemed to do the trick. If you can’t read your copy just scan the page I guess!)
But the rest of the interview taught me that after her father passed away when she was a teenager she turned to food and alcohol to cope. The press has teased her for years for being a big girl and it messed with her self-image. Working out helps Khloe manage her stress levels and maintain a positive outlook.
Inside the magazine she offers some of her favorite workout moves from her trainer Gunnar Peterson. (Check it out here)
So what else is in this issue of Women’s Health?
“Urine Trouble” (See what they did there?)
All kidding aside this is a helpful chart for any urinary tract issues you may have in your lifetime.
“15-Minute Workout: Blast Your Upper Half!”
A couple of years ago I was lucky enough to take a class with Ashley Borden at Fitbloggin in Savannah and was impressed with her ability to relate to the crowd. She loves teaching and fitness so I am happy to help promote her workout featured in this issue.
“Sneaks on Fleek”
Marathon season continues the next few months so if you are looking for some new gear—check out this page. (Now will someone please tell me what the heck “fleek” means and why I should” be “on” it? Merci in advance!)
“Hot Fall Fashion”
The September issue is a flip one where one half is all about fitness and the other is all about fall fashions. According to Women’s Health culottes will be making a comeback?
What do you think of that? I love the 70s aesthetic but these not long or short pants leave me confused.
And now the rest of the best of this issue of Women’s Health:
“New Rules of the Weight Room” Rule number one should be “Do NOT answer your cell phone in class!” Someone did just that this past Saturday and I am still steaming about it. #rude
“Your Body on Antioxidants” What the hell do they actually do anyway? Find out in this issue on page 88.
Overall Grade:
A- Great issue with good workouts though once again I want more of them!
Brooklyn Fit Chick News & Notes: Week of July 10th Edition
“Book vs Movie” Podcast News (Field of Dreams & Stand By Me)
“Coach Nicole” Flies Solo on Her New Venture
Plus: Women’s Health Magazine’s “Next Fitness Star” Competition
Hey there! Hi there! Ho there!
Can you believe the summer is halfway over? I have been busier than the proverbial bee these last few months with family obligations, work (day job) and teaching all of my classes that my personal wellness has suffered a bit. I am trying to get back in the saddle diet (healthy eating) and getting more rest at night. The box jumps and sprints will have to wait until I get back to my base level of fitness. Stress can truly be a silent killer and my goal is to learn how to manage it better and not let my health suffer.
Okay—let’s get back to the fun. Today I want to talk about our latest podcast news, a fitness instructor you MUST follow on Twitter and Women’s Health magazine’s newest competition to find the “Next Fitness Star!”
Brooklyn Fit Chick News & Notes:
Book Vs Movie Podcast News: Margo Porras of Shes Nacho Mama’s Blog co-host the “Book Vs. Movie” podcast (that you can subscribe to via iTunes at this link) recorded our Field of Dreams episode last week and think it’s one of our best episodes yet. (Did you know the Kevin Costner classic was a book first? It was called Shoeless Joe by W.P. Kinsella and boy did they make some changes between them!)
You can listen to the link below and if you have harbored a crush on actor Dwier Brown who played Ray’s dad (swoon!) then you will appreciate how excited I got when he responded to our shout-out on Twitter! (Yippee!) You can follow him on Twitter as well @dwierbrown and he also has a website www.dwierbrown.com.
With our next episode we are going back to the 1950s with Stand By Me from Stephen King (also known as the novella The Body)
We are planning our next few episodes so if there are any books & movies you want us to cover—feel free to comment below!
Coach Nicole at Home: Many moons ago when I started out as a fitness instructor I would constantly scour clips on You Tube to get ideas on how to teach an actual class. My first love was teaching spin and it seems daunting to me to try any other kind of classes. Well Coach Nicole Nichols of Spark People pretty much saved my life! The first clip I ever memorized was her 15-Minute Abs Workout which I repeated basically word for word for my own classes. (Truth!)
Well Coach Nicole is on to her next venture and will soon be hosting workouts on her very own website which goes live on August 1st. In the meantime, be sure to like her Facebook page and follow her on Twitter here. (love you Coach Nicole!
Women’s Health Magazine “Next Fitness Star” And speaking about the next generation of fitness experts—check out these applicants from Women’s Health magazine who are competing to be the next fitness star! They look like a fierce group!
WOMEN’S HEALTH MAGAZINE ANNOUNCES FINALISTS FOR 3rd ANNUAL “NEXT FITNESS STAR” COMPETITION
WINNER TO BE REVEALED ON NBC’s TODAY & WIN A FITNESS DVD CONTRACT
New Webisode Series of Competition to Launch on WomensHealthMag.com, sponsored by EAS Sports Nutrition
July 9, 2015—New York, NY—Women’s Health, the leading national and international women’s health and wellness magazine announces the third annual “Next Fitness Star” national search for the next face in fitness. After receiving thousands of submissions across the country from talented and dynamic personal trainers, Women’s Health has chosen the top five finalists who appear on the flip cover of the July/August issue and compete for their own fitness DVD contract.
The winner will be selected by a combination of a celebrity judging panel including NBC’s Today host Natalie Morales, NBC’s Today fitness and lifestyle correspondent and ACE-certified personal trainer Jenna Wolfe, Extreme Weight Loss’s celebrity trainers Chris and Heidi Powell, Women’s Health Editor-in-Chief Amy Keller Laird and reader / fan votes. The winner will be revealed live, exclusively on Today in August 2015.
With the support of sponsor EAS Sports Nutrition, the 2015 competition allows fans the opportunity to workout along with finalists and vote daily for who they think should win the title of “Next Fitness Star” via www.thenextfitnessstar.com
“Women’s Health offers a tremendous platform to these trainers by providing an opportunity to reach millions of active readers,” says Laura Frerer-Schmidt Vice President and Publisher of Women’s Health. “When it launched, ‘Next Fitness Star’ was the first of its kind in this industry. The competition has proven to have the power to change a person’s career.”
New this year, Women’s Health in conjunction with Hudsun Media, a multi-platform production and creative agency, will also launch the first ever Next Fitness Star webisode-series for the competition. In the bi-weekly show, viewers can see just what it takes to become a star trainer, get to know the finalists and meet the team behind the Next Fitness Star platform.
EAS Sports Nutrition, a brand of sports nutrition products from health care company Abbott, is the joint sponsor for both Women’s Health’s “Next Fitness Star” and Men’s Health’s “Next Top Trainer” programs through a multi-platform advertising commitment across both brands. This partnership invites consumers to participate in the unique contests and leverages EAS’s expertise in performance nutrition. Women’s Health “Next Fitness Star” aligns perfectly with EAS’s core messaging which aims to inspire, motivate and prepare individuals each day to achieve their personal best.
“A partnership with Women’s Health “Next Fitness Star” is a seamless fit for EAS,” EAS GM, Heather Fries said. “Women’s Health is a top choice for women trying to better themselves with fitness and nutrition, and EAS stands for the relentless pursuit of performance. We are the top choice for athletes looking for a high quality sports nutrition product. When athletes incorporate our products throughout their training journey, they recover better and feel prepared to take on whatever their fitness challenge is. EAS has a heritage of being an innovator and leader in the sports nutrition space and our mission is to help athletes improve their health and performance through better nutrition. By partnering with Women’s Health, we feel that we can positively impact the health, performance, and overall experience of their readership.
Jana is a trainer specializing in multiple areas of fitness–certified in boxing, Bodycombat, beginner/intermediate sparring, mixed martial arts cardio, Zumba, Hip Hop Hustle, AquaFit, strength training, dance aerobics, spinning, and a focus on Ariel Yoga. She has her Master’s Degree in Exercise Science and a thriving passion for health and fitness. Dubbed the “Cardio Queen” in Kentucky—Hare also recognizes the power of weight lifting for maximum results. She has launched her own company Dumbbell Bombshell Fitness, an e-commerce and editorial destination site for fitness tips, videos and workout plans.
Dina is a Certified Kettlebell Instructor, Battling Ropes Coach, TRX trainer, Barre instructor and Co-Founder of FitnessSocial Studio, with 12 years experience in the health & fitness industry. At a young age, she was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis and spent years overweight and inactive. Now a mother of four, Dina has successfully lost (& kept off!) over 80 pounds in the last 20 years, working through several medical issues including arthritis, spinal stenosis, and an autoimmune disease. Dina is the creator of the “Lean Out Cleanse & Slim Down Program,” an ambassador for lululemon Athletica, and is currently enrolled with Deepak Chopra at the Chopra Center in the Perfect Health Teacher Training. The workouts she selects for herself and her clients provide fast results; both weight loss and a quick lean out.
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Christine Bullock, 33 // Redondo Beach, CA
Practicing what she preaches, Christine Bullock has turned her expertise and passion for fitness, nutrition, and beauty into a dynamic lifestyle business. As an accomplished ballerina who started dancing at age three, Bullock has a lifetime’s worth of knowledge and insight into the importance of a consistent athletic routine and ongoing healthy eating habits. Passionate about helping others attain health and happiness, she has spent over 17 years working with health and beauty industry leaders all over the globe and has counseled and trained thousands of people to improve their health and well-being both inside and out. Bullock has certifications in Pilates, Barre, Yoga and Pre & Post-Natal, and is also certified as a Nutrition and Wellness Counselor.
Nikki Metzger is a Certified Personal Trainer, Nike Master Trainer and Owner of BODI, a high intensity gym in Scottsdale Arizona, which recently won 7 Best Of Our Valley awards, including Best Gym & Best Trainer & Fittest Female. Metzger’s mission is to set a new standard for group fitness. She has created a unique, focused, and competitive environment that forces her clients to test new boundaries. Prior to BODI Nikki was the General Manager and Lead Instructor at Chicago, ENRGi Fitness and was also nominated as one of Chicago’s Hottest Trainers in 2013 by Racked Chicago. Metzger has trained clients of all different fitness levels and has taught a variety of group fitness classes over the years with a focus on strength & conditioning bootcamps, dance fitness and barre.
Rachel Nicks a certified Hatha yoga, barre, TRX and prenatal and postpartum fitness instructor, in addition to being a certified doula. Beginning her training at Exhale receiving the 275 hour core fusion barre certification, Nicks has been working in the wellness industry for the past five years and is currently a lead instructor at BFX Studio in New York City. Nicks was a graduate of The Juilliard School, and from that experience influences her clients to not only move, but to be present in your body and actually enjoy moving. Nicks is also an actor with roles on network shows including Nurse Jackie and Grey’s Anatomy. Between her training and acting, Rachel dedicates her time to giving back to her local community with a strong influence from her mother, a former special education teacher, who taught her to “never judge, accept people for who they are and where they are in their journey and to do my best with a smile and a positive attitude.”
For information head to: www.TheNextFitnessStar.com and on social at @womenshealthmag and #NextFitnessStar.
That’s all for me this week. I will be back soon with magazine reviews, playlists, reviews and so much more. Stay in touch!
(If you are reading this on a different site or a different feed than Brooklyn Fit Chick, it has been taken without permission.)
Julianne Hough (Dancing With the Stars) is on the cover and inside the magazine she talks about her summer tour with her brother Derek, her favorite movie dancing scenes (I agree with her about Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion!,) and eating healthy with her hockey player beau Brooks Laich.
(I’m getting over the whole “point to the body part we are mentioning on the cover”, however)
We also get a look at her favorite 20-minute workout developed by trainer Astrid Swan which you can check out yourself here:
So what else is in this issue of Women’s Health?
Nice Recovery!
I have had a stressful year and have not been diligent with taking care of my body after workouts so I like having the reminder here on the power of good recovery tools.
And now the rest of the best of this issue of Women’s Health:
“Sun’s Out, Buns Out” We get all kinds of “booty” related news here form three glute moves to the kind of heels you should wear in the summer that will shows off your stems without throwing you off balance. (The Stuart Weitzman sandals featured here are $425, BTW!)
“The New OCD” Women’s Healthtalks about a new term for me “Obsessive Career Disorder” which means you eat and sleep your career and neglect other aspects of your life. The editors talk about taking time to actually sit and eat your lunch away from your desk to get a fresh perspective of the day. (I need to make that more of a habit rather than making it seem like a treat…)
“Scar Tactics” I am one of the clumsiest people on the planet of earth, proven fact. (Have you ever broken your toe while changing socks? No? Then I win!) I liked this feature from Caitlin M. Kiernan on the best practices for getting rid of scars both old and new because lord knows I will need the information sooner than later.
Overall Grade:
A- I really liked the articles in this issue but wish there were more workouts. Maybe next month?
Jessica Alba is on the cover and is basically taking over the world with her eco-friendly products company “Honest” that is worth an estimated $1 billion! Jessica began her company (funded partly by her earnings as a top movie star) just three years ago and thinks a billion seems kind of puny compared to what she feels is truly possible in the marketplace.
If you are wondering how she stays in such amazing shape even though she admits to hating exercise—try 105 degree yoga sessions with light weights.
(Must try that workout soon!)
What else is in this issue of Shape?
Surfer Workout
A few weeks ago I took a ride out the Rockaways and spent some time admiring the surfers take on the Atlantic Ocean. If you have ever tried to surf you know it is an activity that will challenge your balance and core strength.
Trainer Adam Rosante offers this workout to help you get ready to “hang 10” or whatever it is those crazy surfing people do on those boards!
“Cycle in Style”
As a cycling freak this page gives me a big case of “the happies.”
“Tone All Over”
You know I will be stealing some of these workout moves from celebrity trainer Autumn Calabrese into my next core classes. Think strength moves that help you bust through any plateaus going on in your fitness routine.
And now the rest of the best of this issue of Shape:
“Go Outside and Ride!” Shape gives you the lowdown on road, mountain and trail riding to get you back on your bike.
“Pump Up Your Run” If you are getting burned out from your usual running routine they have some options here to get you motivated all over again. (Now go run!)
“Active Adventures” If you want to fit in an outdoor exercise while on your next vacation—try out some fun suggestions here.
“Book vs Movie” Podcast News (Valley of the Dolls)
My Fit Bottomed Girls “00s” Playlist
Eating Chocolate to Lose Weight Exposed as a Bogus Study
EleVen by Venus Discount for My Peeps (Meaning You!)
Venus!!!
Hey gang!
I am slowly getting back into the blogging groove but I wanted to just poke my head in and say “hi” and rest assured I will have the giveaways back on my Blog soon.
Brooklyn Fit Chick News & Notes:
Book Vs Movie Podcast News: Margo Porras of Shes Nacho Mama’s Blog co-host the “Book Vs. Movie” podcast (that you can subscribe to via iTunes at this link) and this past weekend we recorded a super fun episode talking about Valley of the Dolls. I have the link below if you want to check it out for yourself. If you have any interest at all, please be to check out our new website (www.bookversusmovie.com) “like” us on our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter @bookversusmovie. (Thank you for letting me plus!)
We are planning our next episodes so if there are any books & movies you want us to cover—feel free to comment below!
Fit Bottomed Girls Playlist: Recently I was feeling nostalgic for the early 2000s and asked my editors at Fit Bottomed Girls if I can create a playlist (link here) devoted to the “flip phone” decade and this is what I came up with (hope y’all like it!)
The “Chocolate Diet Hoax”: Science journalist John Bohannon was tired of reading badly researched medical studies and “wonder diet tips’ get media attention so when he was approached by a German TV producer to come up with a fake story (how eating chocolate actually aids in weight loss) he jumped right on board. Sadly the very phony report was picked up by top publications around the world including Shape and Prevention.
Bohannon has a Ph.D. in molecular biology and once participated in a sting operation showing some “open-access journals” will publish any story for a fee. You must check out this interview on CBS News where he really lets the reporters he really feels about most of the health & wellness articles in the press. (He is NOT a fan)
Now My “Big EleVen Discount” for Y’all
Most of you are aware of Venus Williams and her amazing tennis career but did you know that she is also an amazing fashion designer? Well she is and studied at the fashion program at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale to learn about pattern making and merchandising her own fitness brand.
You can check out her workout collection EleVen by Venus but some of my new favorites include her Ndebele Spring Collection which includes this yummy top (Ready to Play tank)
As well as her Summer Fleur du Monde collection and this gorgeous “double cross” tank.
The best news is this—if you are interested in shopping from the collection you can receive a 10% discount using the following code at checkout “Team11MargoD” You’re welcome and happy shopping!
Well that is all for me today. I will be back soon with playlist, magazine reviews, giveaways and so much more coming soon.
(If you are reading this on a different site or a different feed than Brooklyn Fit Chick, it has been taken without permission.)
