Brooklyn Fit Chick

Meet a Blogger! @DietSarah Sarah Fit.com

 

 

“Meet a Blogger/Sarah Fit/Sarah”

 

 Hey there! Hi there! Ho there! 

 

 

 

Guess what? I have another Fitbloggin’ pal to introduce to all of you—Sarah from Sarahfit.com who hails from Bean Town and has some really cool advice to offer on her site. Let’s get to meeting her shall we?

 

 

 

Link to Sarah’s Blog: www.sarahfit.com

 

Twitter Name:  @DietSarah

 

Here is a photo of Sarah: 

 

 

 

 

Questions from Brooklyn Fit Chick:

 

●      What is the name of your Blog?

My YouTube channel is SarahsFabChannel aka Sarah Fit TV and my blog is SarahFit.com

 

●      How would you describe it to someone who has not read it before? 

My show features my favorite exercises and workouts, as well as product reviews, meal ideas, weight loss tips, grocery store hauls, workout playlists, and answering my fans burning questions.  I post the video on my blog when I produce them, but for the most part my blog is about how I stay in shape for the video, what I eat and do in the gym to maintain my level of fitness. 

 

I am also a news junkie so anything that is going on in the health world of news will be there too!

 

 

●      How did you get interested in writing? 

I’ve always wanted to write.  There are files saved on my family computer starting in 5th grade of my stories.  In college I wrote for the school newspaper and wanted to be a broadcast reporter.  Somehow I found a job that allowed me to combine my two passions in one.

 

●      What is your favorite workout? 

I love running.  I ran in High School but I am not a big distance runner.  I enjoy a solid 5 or 10K race.  I’m running a 10 mile course with Obstacles this fall which is going to be my most challenging adventure yet.  I go in and out of phases with Yoga, Pilates and Strength Training but I also am running at least 3 days a week.

 

 

●      Who/whom are your “fitness heroes?” 

I admire Jillian Michaels for her ability to motivate and inspire change.  Many trainers will disagree with her training methods but no one can argue her talent for getting inside a client’s head.  I also am obsessed with Tosca Reno.  Before reading the “Eat Clean” diet, I didn’t believe in diet books.  Her Eat Clean series made me realize there is hope for the food and health industry.  (Link to Tosca Reno's amazon.com page.)

 

●      The biggest physical challenge you have overcome? 

Race Anxiety.  As a result of my 400-meter track days, I could not fathom competing again.  The thought of a starting line made me nauseous.  This is one of the reasons I stick with the shorter distance races.  Someday I hope to run a half marathon but I’m taking baby steps to get there. 

 

I trained pretty serious for my first 5K.  I won my age group but almost threw up at the end because I pushed myself so hard.  I’ve realized races should be fun and I’ve learned not to let the competitive edge in me get loose during these friendly races.

 

 

●      What are you favorite reads? 

Women’s Health Magazine, Real Simple, Oxygen, Clean Eating and Jezebel.com

 

●      What is favorite TV guilty pleasure?

Glee and Gossip Girl

 

 

●      If you could trade places with a specific person from any time in history (past or present) for one day—who would it be and why?

Carrie Underwood or Kate Middleton. I have a serious girl crush on Underwood and she has an amazing voice!  I would love, love, love to have a good singing voice and to perform in front of a huge audience with my kick-ass voice and gorgeous athlete husband.  She just seems very normal and was able to have a normal life up until she was discovered.  And who wouldn’t want to know what it’s like to be a modern day princess?  I think I’d be good with one day though of that life!

 

 

 (Mike Fisher & Carrie Underwood)

 

●      How do you motivate yourself when your mind & body are saying “Ugh, not today?”

I grab a cup of coffee and blast one of my favorite pump up/dancing songs of the moment.  Britney or Lady Gaga seem to help motivate me to move.

 

●      Favorite place in the world to chill out.

Cape Cod or Nantucket on the beach.  I love my beach time.

 

 
(Image from Bing.com)

 

●      Who/what makes you laugh when you need a mood lift?

Good girlfriends.  I have a few friends that never cease to make laugh.  No matter how bad of a mood I’m in, a good glass of wine and a fantastic dinner with my girlfriends always puts me in a better mood.

 

 

Thank you Sarah!

 

Ox Ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

(BFC)

Follow me on Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

“Friend” me on Facebook at “Brooklyn FitChick”

 

What Did We Learn This Month? @SELFmagazine with @IAMJHUD on the cover!

 

 

 

What Did We Learn This Month? 

 

 SELF: September 2011

 

 

  

 

 

SELF Cover Star for September: 

Jennifer Hudson, singer, actress and now a Weight Watchers big time success story is on the cover of the September issue in a lovely Catherine Malandrino dress and photographed by Robert Erdmann.

 

What can you say about Jennifer Hudson? She was a castoff on American Idol only to become an Academy Award winning actress. Then she lost her family due to a tragic killing of her mother, brother and 7-year-old nephew in 2008 by another family member. Since then she has picked up the pieces of her life by getting engaged, having a son in 2009, recording a new album and getting her health on the right path by losing 80 pounds on the Weight Watchers program. Go Jennifer!

 

Jennifer is also honored by SELF with their annual “Women Doing Good” issue (I describe more about that below) and looks amazing inside the magazine as well, see?

 

 
  

  

So What Else is in the September SELF?

  

"SELF 4^th Annual Women Doing Good"

SELF gives a shout out to some amazing women who use their resources to make the world a better place including Lisa Ling, Christina Hendricks and Jessica Seinfeld among others. Get the magazine to show your support of them!

 

 

 

 

"Lose 8 Pounds"

Here we get two different plans for losing weight whether you are a “boot camp” kind of Type-A exerciser or more fun-loving “freestyle” workout diva. They actually have prizes you can win! Got to self.com to find out what you need to do.

 

  

 

 

 

Lose 8 Pounds Workout Section: For “Boot Camp Buffers” & “Freestyle Firmers”

Here we have trainers Larysa DiDio and Jennifer Galardi demonstrate the moves and they do a very nice job I must say!

 

 

 

 

“Superfoods for Amazing Skin”

Funnily enough, the day I read this my skin was having a freak out. I really did eat more salmon to feed my skin and it worked!

 

 

 

 

“Viva el Color”

As much as I hate to bid the summer farewell—fall fashions completely rock my world. These fashion pages made me smile.

 

 
 

 

 

The Rest of the Best of the September SELF:

• "It’s Not All About You!” I have this issue where sometimes I think my friends are mad at me and I get paranoid. Quite often the issue is something they are going through at the time that has nothing to do with me and makes me feel silly and childish for worrying about it. My point is that I am learning that the world doesn’t revolve around me and this article crystalizes that.  
• "Is it my Hormones?" Your cycle could be the cause a myriad of health issues and that is treatable. Good news!
•  "Cool Classes, Cute Clothes” SELF gives us several pages of truly cute gear which is the last thing I need but what I really want more of in my life (though it is not all about me dear reader!)
• “Your Body Makeover Starts Here!” SELF Fitness Director Meaghan B. Murphy gets the full rundown on how fit she really is from a tony NYC athletic club Equinox.  We could be twins! Her cardio health is top drawer but her flexibility needs major help.

 

 

Overall Grade: 

A!  Lots of good reading to find here and very lovely to look at as well. Good job SELF!

 

You can check out SELF online here: self.com.

 

Ox ox,

BFC

Brooklyn Fit Chick

Follow me on Twitter: BrooklynFitChik (be sure to note the spelling!)

“Friend” me on Facebook at “Brooklyn FitChick”

 

 

What Did we Learn This Month? @Allure_magazine @MoreMag @OxygenMagazine

 

 

What Did We Learn This Month?

 

Recaps of Allure, More and Oxygen

 

The September issues keep stacking up in my mailbox and they won’t recap themselves—so let’s get to it shall we?

 

 

 

 

Allure: September 2011

• Salma Hayek: Is it possible for a woman to be more beautiful than Salma Hayek? I think not. But her beauty extends to the inside as well as Salma is an ardent activist & supporter for Unicef. In 2009 she made headlines for breastfeeding a child in a Sierra Leone clinic whose mother could not provide for him. I dub her a badass!
• “Stealing Beauty” Really, really interesting article about the surprisingly large number of upper-middle-class women who steal as a form of release & the most likely consequence of an addiction. I spent years of my life in retail and can tell you personally that this is truer than you think.
• "Skin Power" Whatever skin ailment you have—Allure can show you how to use your products to their best advantage.
• "Insider’s Guide: How to Say Thank You" Loved this! Writer Henry Alford has a new book on manners called "Would it Kill You to Stop Doing That?" Here he shows us the proper way to thank people Good on you Henry!
• "Magic Bullets" You would not believe how many pages are devoted to lipstick in this issue. Makes me want to watch film noir on TMC!

 

  Check out Allure magazine online at: Allure magazine link.

 

  

 

 

More: September 2011

• Julie Bowen: The star of one my favorite comedies of all time, Modern Family, is just about the coolest, most down-to-earth actresses I have read about in quite some time. Seriously, she may just surpass Mindy Kaling as my ‘imaginary celebrity best friend.” Read this interview and just try not to be charmed by her—it’s impossible.  
• Mary J. Blige: I love this woman’s music. Seriously lerve it!  Put on Family Affair and try to stop your bootie from wiggling. Go ahead, I’ll wait. There! See, it kicks ass. Moving on…
• "Second Acts: When Life Forces You to Reinvent" Four women who have been affected personally by the events of 9/11 talk about how they moved on and found new purpose in their lives.
• “The Runaway” Ann Hood writes about her extensive world travels after the death of her daughter in 2002 at the age of five. Sometimes running away from your demons can bring them even closer to you than you can imagine.
• “Do You Have What it Takes to Work for a Nonprofit” More asked a group of successful women who work in the nonprofit world their best advice for those who want to wade in the charity pool.

 

  Check out More online at: more.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oxygen: September 2011

• “What the Heck Are Tabatas" I had no idea until I read this article. (It has to do with high-interval/high-intensity work.)
• “Waterproof Workout” A whole page of really cool outdoors gear that is waterproof and cute at the same time.
• “A Taller, Slimmer, Stronger You” Top workout tips to get your posture on track.
• Lori Harder: The cover model was a chubby kid who used her older sister’s workout videos and stacks of fitness magazine to change her life for the healthier.
• “21 Ways to Live Longer” From turning off your TV to laughing more often—these suggestions will help you to your goal of optimal health throughout your life.
• “Get Sexy Abs in 23 Days” Expert advice for flattening bellies.
• “5 Milks for Your Consideration” Helps distinguish the differences between cow milk, almond milk, rice milk and more.

 

Check out Oxygen online: at Oxygenmag.com

 

 

That's all I have in me for today. Trust me when I say that I will have tons more recaps to offer in the near future.

 

Until next time…

 

Ox Ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

Follow Me On Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!) 

“Friend” me on Facebook: “Brooklyn FitChick”

 

 

Meet a Blogger @ThenHeatherSaid ....Heather

 

 

“Meet a Blogger/Then Heather Said /Heather”

 

 Hey there! Hi there! Ho there! 

 

 

I am really happy to present a fellow Twitter pal whom I adore, Heather whose Blog is called Then Heather Said. She is a totally cool chick who loves a good laugh and is always seeking ways to get healthier. Let’s meet her, shall we?

 

Link to Heather’s Blog: http://www.thenheathersaid.com/

 

Twitter Name:  @ThenHeatherSaid

 

Here is a photo of Heather: 

 

 

Questions from Brooklyn Fit Chick:

• What is the name of your Blog?

Then Heather Said

 

• How would you describe it to someone who has not read it before?

THS is a place wherein I:
Occasionally give advice.
Share ridiculous life antics.
Wax poetic about products, art, and life experiences.
Always aim for honesty, encouragement, and growth.

 

• How did you get interested in writing?

I’ve been crazy for the written word since I was in elementary school.  I remember an instance specifically in second grade when our teacher was reading aloud sentences we had written for part of an assignment, using spelling and vocabulary words. I had personified an object in my sentence, which made the class laugh me into embarrassment.  My teacher spoke to me after class about personification and suggested I take a creative writing class. 

 

• What is your favorite workout?

I am a fool for a good run.  I enjoy other work outs as well (especially at home upper body strength training with my body bar and yoga podcasts as of late) but running has completely changed my life and even the way I look at the world. [Check out my running story, which delves into my running timeline.]

 

• Who/whom are your “fitness heroes?”
  
  Joseph Detmer.

 

• The biggest physical challenge you have overcome?

 

It’s funny that I’ve lost over 50 pounds so far in my weight loss journey, and I still haven’t considered that a “challenge which I have overcome.” 

Is it something I’ve done? Yes.  Was it challenging at times? Yes.  Did it take effort and determination? Yes, of course.  But I still don’t think to myself, “I did it.” very often. 

 

Maybe it’s because I still have 5-10 pounds I’d like to lose, in time.  Maybe it’s because I took my time losing the weight, and in the 3 years since I’ve started shedding I have slowly been transformed.  Or maybe it’s because I often focus and celebrate with the emotional and mental challenges in my life so much more than the physical. 

 

Sometimes, though, I come across an old photo from years ago and find myself stunned.  “Oh. My. Word. I’ve completely changed. I DID that.”  At which point I give myself a “booyah!” and do a little happy dance, sometimes with an imaginary cartwheel, to boot.

• What is favorite TV guilty pleasure?
  I have three:

1. Late night Criminal Minds reruns where I fall more and more in love with Dr. Reid and lust after Derek Morgan.

2. Make It or Break It [MIOBI] on, wait for it, ABCFamily.  Teenage elite gymnasts and the drama that ensues.  [Yes, I’m serious.]

 

 

 
3. Turner Classic Movies.  Which, I shouldn’t really be classified as “guilty pleasure” because everyone should be devoted to watching old films, in my opinion.  Plus, the movies run commercial free, which is awesome.

 

• How do you motivate yourself when your mind & body are saying “Ugh, not today?” 

In terms of fitness:  I do one of two things. 
1. Take 5 minutes to meditate on the issue.  I ask myself why I feel like I should work out – because I have goals to meet (training for a race, weight loss, toning up, regular practice, etc.) and remind myself that the reason I’m working out is not only for the here and now, but also for the future.

 

2. Under Promise, Over Deliver.  This is sort of a major component to my weight loss and fitness lifestyle.  I tell myself I only have to run 2 miles, but ultimately would like to run 4.  I write down “15 minutes of strength training” on my to-do list, but save time for 30 minutes.  I plan on walking to work 3 days a week, but set my alarm to do so every day of the week.  90% of the time, I end up doing MORE than I plan for.  When I really don’t want to work out, I tell myself “5 minutes of ANYTHING” and usually end up doing much more. 

 

 

• Favorite place in the world to chill out.
  
  My parents’ backyard in Denton, Texas. 

I visited them for 10 days earlier this summer and spent hours and hours and HOURS out there, seated around the umbrella-ed table, snacking, drinking, and having great conversation with my family.     

 

• Who/what makes you laugh when you need a mood lift?

When I am alone and miserable and know I need to snap out of it, I reread tweets I’ve marked as favorite or watch video of Andy Sandberg in a bird suit. And I can always count on The Nerdist and Doug Loves Movies podcasts to lift my spirits (Editor's note: I love those podcasts as well!)

 

Thank you Heather!

 

Ox Ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

(BFC)

Follow me on Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

“Friend” me on Facebook at “Brooklyn FitChick”

What Did We Learn This Month? @goodhealth Health magazine Sept Issue

 

 

What Did We Learn This Month?

 

 Health magazine: September 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What’s happening in the September issue of Health? 

 

Health Cover Star for September: 

Kelly Preston, photographed by Michael Williams (www.themichaelwilliams.com) and on the very first page inside the magazine, poses with her super-adorable baby boy Benjamin (see above.) Look at that smile! Wow!

 

Since losing her son Jett to a rare illness has devoted her life to helping kids with special needs.

 

Here is another photo of Kelly inside the magazine. I am falling in love with little Benjamin!

 

 

A future movie star I say!

 

 

So what else is inside the September Health?

  

"The Yes You Can! Awards” 

Health honors some really groovy women who make a difference including swimmer Dara Torres, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, and charity fundraising goddess Malaak Compton-Rock.

 

 
 
 
 

 

“Yep, They Stayed Skinny!”

Health revisits a few of their real-life success stories to see how they have been able to keep the weight off.  

 

 

 

 

 

“Bring on the Bedtime!”

If you are a “problem sleeper” like me, you will love this story. Basically a whole page that gives me the “I wants.”

 
 

 

 

"One Month to a Wow Body"

Health created a diet & fitness program to get your body ready for any end-of-summer races you have coming up.

 

 
 

 

 
 And now the rest of the best of this issue of Health:

• "The Burning Question: Should I Cut Back on Coffee" Two experts square off on this topic that I hold very dear to my heart. (Luv coffee!)
• "Fat-Proof Your Life" Just because you reach certain milestones in your life (marriage, menopause and middle-age for example) doesn’t mean you HAVE to gain weight. Tips for staving off the extra pounds.
• "Your New Allergy Guide" You are not crazy—allergies are indeed much worse than normal this year. What you can do to keep them under control.
• "Stopping the Scariest Cancer” Personally I think ALL cancers are pretty freaking scary—but there have been big advances in the treatment of Ovarian cancer. What you need to know about said advances.
• “50 Things to Say Yes To” One of them includes getting a kitty cat which made me happy!
• “Yes! Yes! Yes!” Some really good sex tips here to make you say “Oo-rah!”   
• “Secrets from the Star Chefs” Top celebrity chefs tell us how they get meals on their family table that are fast, delicious and healthy. Win/win!

 

Follow Heath online at: Health magazine link.  

 

Overall Grade: 

A- Lots of good stuff here. I enjoyed this issue very much.

 

Keep it up and see you in October Health!

 

Ox ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

(BFC)

Follow me on Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

Friend Me on Facebook: “Brooklyn FitChick”

 

 
 

 

What Did We Learn This Month? @Shape_Magazine September Issue

 

 

What Did We Learn This Month?

 

 Shape magazine: September 2011

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

Shape Cover Star for September: 

Wow. If you watch all of the iterations of the Bravo TV “Real Housewives” franchise (as I do) then you will also say to yourself “wow” when seeing Kelly Bensimon on the cover.  Kelly is infamous for her verbal ticks and gaffes on the Real Housewives of New York, her occasional goofy/endearing charm and for running down Fifth Avenue for her morning jog. Not down the sidewalk mind you—on Fifth Avenue. No, people do NOT do that here on a regular basis.

 

She defends herself as not-so-crazy, not-so-snobbish, not-so-stoned and not-so-dumb in her interview if that gives you any idea of how people see her in real life.

 

Kelly looks very pretty in the magazine and is photographed by her ex-husband—famed photographer Gilles Bensimon. She also shows her favorite workout moves based on her trainer’s (Nick Oram) advice. Here is a shot of Kelly from inside the magazine.

 

 

  

 

 

So what else is inside the September Shape?

  

"Shape 8^th Annual Beauty Awards" 

Shape put together a panel of beauty brainiacs (including 4,000 readers) to pick their favorites in beauty, body, face, hair & “finishing touches.” My likey!

 

  

 
 
 

“On the Ball”

Read about the awesomeness that is Cappie Pondexter of the New York Liberty team.

 

 

 

 

 

“Done That? Try This!”

Shape this month offers quite a few workout stories starting with this fun one showing how making small adjustments to your favorite workouts can help beat a fitness rut.

 

 
 

 

 

"Power Play"

Do you live near a park? Well this workout could just what the doctor ordered!

 

 

 

 

 

 "On the Beach with Elle Macpherson"

The 48 year-old (!) model/actress/lingerie designer/executive producer for the upcoming Fashion Star and mother of two looks as amazing as ever. See for yourself!

 

 
 

 

 
 
  And now the rest of the best of this issue of Shape:

• "Raise the Bar" Just got my TRX certification an am ready to kick it up a notch with their new Rip Trainer.
• "Soap Stars" I think doing laundry is my least favorite chore of all time the three new products introduced her might make me change my mind about it! 
• Gum Control: Shape gives us three tips for keeping your choppers in perfect condition.  
•  "Exercise Lifted My Greif” Weight trainer Laurie Geisz talks about how her workouts aided in her grief over losing her son at birth. Brave lady, she.

 

Follow Shape magazine online at: Shape magazine link.

 

Overall Grade: 

B!  Loved the workout pages but the fashion stories did not raise my temperature which should not happen for a September issue.

 

See you in October Shape!

 

Ox ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

(BFC)

Follow me on Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

“Friend” me on Facebook at “Brooklyn FitChick”

 

What Have the Internets Taught Us? @FitBottomedGirl @DietsInReview @FatGirlVsWorld @katdoesdiets @skinnyemmie

 

 

What Have the Internets Taught Us?

 

Featuring links from Fit Bottomed Girls, Diets in Review, Adventures in Dietland, Fat Girl Vs. World & Skinny Emmie

 

I found some more links to some of my favorite stories, articles, essays and ponderings I found on the interwebs. You’re welcome!

 

 

Fit Bottomed Girls: “Booty-Theme Playlist!”

To get your fanny wiggling while controlling the jiggling!

• http://fitbottomedgirls.com/2011/08/%E2%99%AA-fithits-a-booty-themed-playlist/

 

 

 

Diets in Review: “Are Yo-Yoing Celebs More Relatable For Diet Ads?”

Interesting discussion on the use of celebrities in the diet market.

• http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/08/are-yo-yo-ing-celebs-more-relatable-for-diet-ads/

 

 
 

 

Adventures in Dietland: Everyday Paleo video book review

A fitbloggin’ pal of mine is trying out the Paleo diet cookbook for us. Let’s see what Kerri thinks about it…

• http://katdoesdiets.blogspot.com/2011/08/everyday-paleo-by-sarah-fragoso-review.html

 

 

 

 

Fat Girl vs. World:  “A Mile in Her Shoes”

Robby is one of my favorite Twitter/Blogger pals and this particular posting made me sad & angry at the same time.

• http://fatgirlvsworld.blogspot.com/2011/07/mile-in-her-shoes.html

 

 

  

Skinny Emmie:  “What I Wish More People Knew About Me”

Another fitbloggin’ pal of mine who has not seen some pretty important films, wow! (I must confess to have never seeing Top Gun or Dirty Dancing in their entirety but pretty much know what they are about.) She talks about more important matters as well.

• http://skinnyemmie.com/2011/08/what-i-wish-more-people-knew-about-me/

 

That’s all I have for today folks! Keep checking back with me as I plan to feature more of my favorite links and clips in the future. Let me know what your favorite Blogs, okay? Thanks!

 

Ox Ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

Follow Me On Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!) 

“Friend” Me on Facebook at “Brooklyn FitChick”

Meet a Blogger! @fitmomtraining Stephanie

 

 

 

“Meet a Blogger/Fit Mom…in Training/Stephanie”

 

 Hey there! Hi there! Ho there! 

 

 
 

 

Today I want to introduce you all to the fabulous Stephanie who hails from Canada (so she spells some words kind of funny) and is the Blogger behind Fit Mom… in Training. Let’s get to meet her shall we?

  

Link to Stephanie’s Blog:  http://www.fitmomintraining.com/

 

Twitter Name:  @fitmomtraining

 

Here is photo of the lovely Stephanie: 

 

 

 

Questions from Brooklyn Fit Chick:

• What is the name of your Blog?

The name of my Blog is Fit Mom...in Training. It's basically my innocent ramblings about health and fitness that are based on my personal experiences as a mom, wife, woman and former skinny-fat girl who never exercised and ate crap 24/7...and lots of it. It's inspired through my journey of self-discovery, my love of fitness and empowerment as well as my accountability tool for working toward my own goals in life. After all, I'm a work in progress. I've come a long way but my journey is far from over.

• How would you describe it to someone who has not read it before?

See above.

• How did you get interested in writing?

I've always had an interest in writing. I did a lot of it in my youth. I loved the challenge of creating something that was all my own. As I got older, I found it to be a great way to express myself and articulate my point of view in a way that felt safe for me. If I had more courage back in the day and a slightly more outgoing personality (and better spelling/grammar skillz) I would have followed that love of writing into journalism.

• What is your favorite workout?

My favourite workout is typically running, strength training and since I learned how (finally!) just last year, swimming. With running, I love the feel of the crisp morning air and the sun rising while I'm out moving, it absolutely energizes me for the rest of my day. With weights, I love seeing my muscles get toned and strong and just the overall change to my body. With swimming, since it's a relatively new discovery for me, I'm just loving the challenge of it all, the feel of the water and how completely exhausted I am when I get out of the pool. Now that I'm expecting my second child, I've had to scale back some things but I'm still working and am excited to get myself back up to snuff after this little one comes along in the New Year.

• Who/whom are your “fitness heroes?”

My fitness heroes are anyone who gets out there, sets a goal and works hard to achieve it. Of course, I'm always in awe of people who accomplish ultimate feats of athleticism like iron-mans, ultra marathons and so forth but what really inspires me is to see everyday people, like myself, who just do it. They may not be the best or the fastest or the strongest but they don't give up. That gets me reaching for the Kleenex every single time.

• The biggest physical challenge you have overcome?

Fear of the water. I only learned to swim last year at age 30 because I was scared on so many levels—afraid of failing, afraid of looking foolish, afraid on being in a bathing suit in public nearly threw up right before my first lesson because I was so nervous about it but I went, I learned and I haven't looked back since.

• What is favorite TV guilty pleasure?

Vampire Diaries. At my age, I should be watching True Blood but I just love VD, it's shameful because I grew up watching the original 90210...I'm too old to be enjoying anything on the WB network.

 

 

• How do you motivate yourself when your mind & body are saying “Ugh, not today?”

Commit to 5 minutes or just showing up. At least go, then if I'm really not game, I can at least hold on to the fact that I tried. Almost always though, I end up staying, going the full distance and feeling much happier after.

• Favorite place in the world to chill out.

Fave place in the world to chill out is without a doubt sitting on a comfy deck chair by the lake with hot coffee, a sunrise and calmness all around. 

Thanks Stephanie!! 

Ox ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

(BFC)

Follow me on Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

“Friend” me on Facebook at “Brooklyn FitChick”

 

What Did We Learn this Month? @LuckyMagazine @MensHealth @O_Magazine

 

 

What Did We Learn This Month?

 

Recaps of Lucky, Men’s Health and O

 

 

Hey there! The dog days of summer are still upon us, my cat is lazier than ever and I am sick and tired of the heat but one thing gives me hope—fall will soon be upon us! How do I know that? Because my September issues are starting to pile into my mailbox which always makes me happy so let’s take a look at some of them today shall we?

 

 

 
 

 

Lucky: September 2011 issue

•  Jessica Alba: The insanely beautiful actress is the cover star wearing a lovely purple-colored Marc Jacobs frock. The big take away from the interview is the fact that Jessica is pregnant at the time of the interview and is asked (months before actually giving birth) what her get back-in-shape plans are. (Sigh, I go over how much I hate these kinds of questions in my Fit Bottomed Girl guest post.) But just in case you are interested, she plans a 1200-calorie per-day diet and gradually working herself up to 3-hours per day of exercise to become a marketable actor again. This is actually depressing me, let’s move on shall we?
• “City Guide: Los Angeles” Page after page of really cool places to shop ‘til you drop in La-la land (does anyone use that expression anymore?)
• "Denim Bars" Did you know there is a “new wave of jeans counters” out there selling all kinds of brands of denim? Well now ya’ do! Lucky rates them coast-to-coast.
• "Lucky Life: House of Fashion" Lucky had the good sense to hire Marlien Rentmeester years ago as their West Coast editor and now we get to see her fabulous home which serves as Lucky’s West Coast (sort of) office. I worked with Marlien years ago and she is beyond lovely in every way and her home is to die for!
• “Fall Shoe Guide” Pages like these make my heart go pitter patter. Seriously—new shoes can brighten anyone’s day. And it doesn’t matter what size you are!
• “Buying Under the Influence” Completely hilarious article by chic writer Alex Kuczynski about the perils of drunken online shopping. It’s nice to know I am not the only one who has had a package shipped to me with crap I cannot remember ordering. (Not that I am proud of that…)

 

Check out Lucky online at http://www.luckymag.com/

 

 

 

 

 

Men’ Health: September 2011 issue

•  Sam Worthington: Am I the only one out there that was completely underwhelmed by the movie Avatar? It was one of those visual creations I forgot about (as well as the lead actor) soon after leaving the theater. But the Sam Worthington on the cover and inside this magazine has me thinking things differently. He is totally adorable is my point. And Australian with curly hair and a buff chest—excuse me but I need to sip a cool drink for a minute. Be right back…
• Evan Longoria:  Ladies, check out page 64 and gaze at the handsomeness that is Evan Longoria of the Tampa Bay Rays (he plays third base.) Fellas—he talks about the importance of staying in shape in the off-season. So we all get what we want from this story!
• “How to Help Your Kid Ace Her Homework” Aw, dads being attentive to their kids is so sexy. And bravo for Men’s Health for encouraging better father-daughter relationships!
• "Skirt Danger" Tips on how to handle an office romance without torching your career. (Ladies, take note as well.)
• "Live (Almost) Forever" Have you heard of “Blue Zones?” These are places that scientists noticed here people live about ten years longer than the average person. Ideas on why they can chase ol’ death away.
• “Lose the Last 10” A full diet & exercise plan to burn stubborn fat.
• “The New Sex Cancer” The HPV virus is not only threatening the lives of women folks. Holy shit!
• Sam Worthington: This guy again? Oh yes! Sam graces the back cover of the magazine as well for the Men’s Health fall style guy. Wee!

 

You can check out Men’s Health online here http://www.menshealth.com/

 

 

 
 

 

O: September 2011 issue

• “What’s Your Eco IQ?” So you consider yourself eco-conscious? Well, do you wash your dishes by hand or use the dishwasher? How about plastic wrap vs. aluminum foil? Find out the better choices for lots of life’s basic needs here.
• "Honey, I Shrunk!" September is O’s “Makeover Issue” so we get lots of makeover stories including this one featuring women who have lost at least 100 pounds and need a new look.
• “A More Hospitable Hospital” The experts give their tales on how to radically change the look and layout of your typical hospital room that will not only help patient heal quicker but will also cut back on costs.
• “Walk Signals” This is only a one-page feature but the editors talk about how people who walk really fast everywhere tend to live longer. So quit busting my chops friends and family and keep up with MY pace!
• “The Health Hazard You Never Heard Of” There is a very simple test for CPR which indicates inflammation in the body and could save your life. Read this story!
• “You and Improved” The biggest “makeover” feature is all about YOU and how to make your life more fun, easier and just plain better. Which one of us could use more of that? (Raise your hands!)
• J-LO! The American Idol goddess herself is not only a singer but a fashion designer with a new collection coming out this fall with many pieces under $100. Here she makes over several women to fabulousness and we also get a cute picture of Jennifer Lopez posing with her husband Mark Anthony—oops.

 

Read more about O online at http://www.oprah.com/omagazine.html

  

That's all she wrote for now folks. Keep coming back and I will keep you updated on the latest news, reviews, silly videos, playlists, giveaways and all good things that make life worth living. Who can beat that?

 

Until next time…

 

Ox Ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

Follow Me On Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!) 

Friend Me on Facebook: “Brooklyn FitChick”

 

 

Meet an Instructor! @babiesynergy Joanna P.

 

 

“Meet an Instructor!/Babiesynergy/Joanna”

 

 Hey there! Hi there! Ho there! 

 

 

 

I am beyond excited to feature someone whom I not only look up to in the fitness world but is also a really cool person that I am happy to call my friend—Joanna Paterson of “Babiesynergy.”

 

Joanna is originally from New Zealand and is an all-around badass fitness instructor who among other classes teaches indoor cycling, kettlebells, step, boot camp but her real love is helping parents and their babies make a physical connection.

 

Go to Joanna’s site to read more about this excellent program based in New York City right now:

http://babiesynergy.com/

 

Follow her on Twitter:  @babiesynergy

 

Here is a photo of Joanna with one of her youngest (and cutest) clients: 

 

 

Questions from Brooklyn Fit Chick:

• What is the name of your Class?

Babiesynergy.com Bootcamp for Parents & their Babies

 

• How would you describe it to someone who has not read it before?

Babiesynergy is a low-impact 45-minute workout for you and your baby to grow stronger each week. Your baby is you fitness tool.  You bond as your strength & baby grow.

 

 

The program is designed to help parents build confidence while holding their baby as they squat, lunge, balance, swing & fly during the workout.

Babies: 6 weeks or older (able to hold their head up,) advanced crawling

Parents: Post pregnancy health check needs to be completed.

 

 

 

• What is your favorite workout?

Kettlebell Sport  

 

• Who/whom are your “fitness heroes?”

Sally Edwards, Sir Edmund Hillary, any of the New Zealand All Black Rugby team.

 

• The biggest physical challenge you have overcome?

Losing 160 + pounds, maintaining the weight loss over 17 years and creating a healthy lifestyle.

 

• What are you favorite reads?

I prefer stories of strength and strong women from other cultures.

 

• If you could trade places with a specific person from any time in history (past or present) for one day—who would it be and why?

Queen Victoria, an unbelievably strong independent woman who changed history

 

• How do you motivate yourself when your mind & body are saying “Ugh, not today?”

Chat with my daughter, see her smile, remind myself of the image I want her to be inspired by.

 

• Favorite place in the world to chill out.

St Heliers Beach Auckland New Zealand. 

 

• Who/what makes you laugh when you need a mood lift?

My daughter who reminds me about the silliest of things/people.

My Love, a man who has made believe in who I am again after so long.

 

Thanks Joanna!!

 

Ox ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

(BFC)

Follow me on Twitter: @BrooklynFitChik (note the spelling!)

“Friend” me on Facebook at “Brooklyn FitChick”