Brooklyn Fit Chick

#Thintervention Episode 4 Recap: Does Anyone Actually Lose Weight on This Show?

 

Bravo's "Thintervention"

Episode Four: "Finding Your Inner Warrior*"

(*Said warrior must be keeping the weight on them!)

 

(Cast photos are courtesy of BravoTV.com)

 

Here we are at episode four of Thintervention and it is starting to give me a major case of the sads.

:(

 

I see the point that Bravo wants to make about helping folks lose weight within their environment and not some souped-up fat camp. To show the viewing audience how rewarding it is to stick with a diet and exercise program by staying consistent.

 

But I am afraid the cast members/contestants this season must spend more time coming up with their "off-the-cuff" one-liners and zingers rather than actually, you know, dieting and exercising. Is the problem with the show format or this cast of characters? (Pondering this.)

 

It has broken down for me this way:

Jackie "Mother F***in" Warner and Craig Ramsey: Love. They are bad-asses but really work to be supportive and not just a bunch of yellers.

Dr. Ramani: Poised, intelligent and no nonsense. She offers good advice that seems to fall on deaf ears. Pourquoi?

Byran and Mandy: Nice, hard working and fun-loving. They actually do the work week after week. Much love here.

Stacy & Shannon/Shay: Alternate between being whining and annoying with hard working and focused. I am on the fence with the both of them.

Jeana: Really comes across as sad and distracted most of the time. How do you pick up a fried coconut shrimp with a camera crew following you on a weight loss show? Sheesh!

Joe & Nikki: Two peas in a pod here. Smart people who use humor to fend off unpleasant thoughts and feelings. But gawd--can they be overbearing to watch and listen to at times!

 

All of them have the best people available and live in the most climate-friendly place in the U.S. --so what gives with the puny weight-loss numbers? I just don't get it.

 

So I guess now is as good of a time as any to look at episode four--let's boogie!

  

Jackie and Craig ask the group to come out to Magnolia Park for a day of exercise that is guaranteed to help them each find their "inner warrior." Adorable Bryan calls his "Ethel." (As in Vivian Vance Bry? Love it!)

 

Basically Jackie has them do 1-mile laps around the park, a series of kettlebell exercises, followed by more running around the park. Altogether they are expected to run three miles. Not in a row but in three segments. This is not impossible people. But Nikki describes it as just that--impossible. (Sigh.)

 

Now I will offer this, I hate hate hate running in the rain. And they must do so on this particular day. But really people, how long were they actually there? In the end maybe two hours? Is that really the worst condition in the world for exercise? I say no and call bull shit on Nikki's whining and Jeana's "mall walk" fakery.

 

The thing is, Jackie is enormously patient with Nikki throughout her tantrum and gets her to even join in on her own volition after one of her many sullen walk-offs.

 

Afterwards Bryan and Nikki go out for fancy massages which made me feel jealous to just watch them. (Note to self, schedule a Bliss Spa appointment stat!)

 

Then we have a trip to the grocery store where Jackie basically says "cereal bad" and "fruit good." Though to her credit--some of them seem genuinely surprised by this. (Shannon <coughs> Shay <coughs, coughs>)

 

 

Personally I would have preferred watching Jackie fill up her cart with what she eats every day; but maybe that's for another show?

 

After the commercial break we have the "Jackie visits as a HUGE surprise"  as she sneaks up on former ZZ Top video vixen Jeana who is dining at a fancy schmancy yacht club--the Pacific Avalon Charters.

 

Now Jeana is followed by an entire film crew from Bravo. So why on earth is she cheating on her diet right the hell in front of them? Does she just not care at all? It may be a matter of she simply doesn't value herself and said pretty much the most disturbing thing comment I have heard on Thintervention yet.  

 

As soon as Jackie asked Jeana to "reflect" on herself more she immediately responded "I will kill myself." How did someone so lovely with so many breaks in her life get beaten down so badly? I have to say I was surprised Jackie didn't insist she consult a therapist but instead encouraged her to keep on the program. IMHO, she is clearly depressed and in need of care. Am I overreacting? Please tell me if I am.

 

Okay enough of this bummer parade--lets bring on the hot firemen! (And Jackie in a cute outfit!)

 

 

Here we are at the big  weekly challenge at the Orange County Fire Authority. Lots of shots of hot firemen  fill the screen (thankyouverymuchBravo) which gives all of the ladies the vapors.  All are in high flirt mode when we hear Joe give his deep, brainiac thought on the topic: "Fire fighters don't f*** fat chicks." Keep it classy Joe. Your dance card is going to fill up real soon I can tell.

 

Pretty standard fare here with the contestants running around in firemen gear and doing different "fireman-ish" activities to get their asses moving. All except Bryan who tears his chest muscle or something like that. Its all kinds of crazy-serious with emergency crews and tubes up the nose going on.  

 

 

 

But Bryan claims to be fine and even goes for an "angry" jog at home when it is over. (So cute!)

 

Keeping it brief: Mandy and Jeana wind up winning the challenges that day and get to put out a  big, staged fire with the fireman. I have to say, holding one of those hoses while putting out a burning pile of something in a parking lot would be kind of a turn on for me too-- so I understand their excitement at this "win.'  (Oh get your mind out of the gutter! I was being literal.)

 

Then we have the shit-storm therapy session. Whoo boy! You can see the highlights in this clip:

 

 

Everyone is frustrated and mad at everyone else as well as their puny weight-loss numbers. And they damn well should be. These numbers are kind of pathetic really (for most of them.)

 

Episode Four Weigh-In Numbers.

• Jeana: 2 lbs.
• Bryan: 3 lbs. (With a ripped chest something or other and all.) 
• Nikki: 2 lbs.
• Shannon/Shay: 1 lb. (With a bum knee)
• Mandy: 3 lbs (Well deserved!)
• Joe: 0 lbs. (Also had an injury so that's understandable.
• Stacy: 0 lbs (Lots of "not fair" tears here.)

 

At this point Jackie gives them her own hard numbers:

• They should all be eating 1300-1500 calories per day.
• They should all be burning about 3000 calories per week through exercise.
• You need to burn 500 calories per day in order to lose 1 lb. per week.

 

So why are they not losing more each week?  Because they are are bull shitting us! (Cue next week's episode clips that feature a lie detector giving them the business!)

Wee! Can. Not. Wait.

 

Finally I offer my own "bon mots" from episode four, all from my trusty notepad:

 

Jackie "Mother F***in'" Warner:

 

 

I cannot believe how nice you were to Nicki and Jeana this week. You really make me see how being a coach to others is just as much about kindness as being an authority figure. Thank you!

 

Mandy:

God damn you were just a big bucket of awesome this week. Always working hard with no excuses. Brava! 

 

Jeana:

Please take better care of yourself. Forget your doucebag ex-husband and embrace your future. Please! 

Joe:

You are still making sexist remarks some times and you aren't as clever as you think you are. You might also just be hungry most of the time so I will let it go this time.

 

Shannon/Shay:(Bravo's web site and TV show give two different names for her.)

 

 
(Shannon/Shay)  

I hurt my knee before and it sucks ass. I hope you feel better soon because I would love to see you be a track star again.  

 

Nikki:

Please stop complaining! Just freaking do it. Whatever it is in life you claim to be "impossible" --just try to do it at the very freakin' least! See how that works out for ya.  (You're welcome!)

Bryan:

Loved you inner-Ethel almost as much as I love you. And riding in the old-person cart at the grocery store was beyond awesome! I am SO doing that soon.  Ox ox. 

Stacy:

I am calling you on the bull shit. You have to be cheating on the diet somewhere. Come on, fess up! Confession is good for the soul! (Said the lapsed Catholic girl.)

 

  

Dr. Ramani

 

I loved it when you told them to stop over-thinking their problems and just say "stop" at their bad behavior. "Habits are actions--not passive." Indeed.

 

 And Craig Ramsey:

 

When are you leading a class or a challenge? I wants to sees you mo'! (Bravo TV Executives--get on that!) 

   

Holy shit balls y'all. I am beyond tired. A glass of wine is waiting for me in the living room and the promise of more reality TV is calling my name. So I bid you all a fond adieu until next week. Cheers!

 

(Thanks to BravoTV.com for providing the clip.)

 

Until next time...

 

BFC

 

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New Favorite "Brooklyn" Cool Down Song: I and Love and You by The Avett Bros.

 

New Favorite Song: "I and Love and You" by The Avett Brothers

Get Ready to Fall in Love With it as Well

 

A few weeks ago I heard a song that literally made me stop everything I was doing at that moment and listen. It's called "I and Love and You" by The Avett Brothers who are from North Carolina and thanks to KFOG in San Francisco for adding it to their play list.

 

I am now playing "I and Love and You" as my cool down song in my classes and invariably people run up to me afterwards and say "What is that Brooklyn song?"

 

In case you are wondering what that means; in the chorus they sing "Oh Brooklyn, Brooklyn, take me in. Are you aware the shape I'm in?" It's so sweet and plaintive that I have seen more than a few folks shed a tear while the song plays.

 

So today I bring you the video from The Avett Brothers (here is their offical web site.)

 

Check it out here (apologies if a crappy band comes up first as an ad.)

 

 

I hear The Avett Brothers are playing Radio City on October 13th and I am seriously tempted to go now....

 

So let me know your new favorite music. I am always looking for new bands and songs. I hope you enjoyed this little introduction of "I and Love and You." You're welcome!

 

Until next time...

BFC

 

 

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What Did We Learn This Month? @WomensHealthMag October issue

 

What Did We Learn This Month?: Women's Health

Women's Health magazine: October 2010 

  

Women's Health Cover Model: 

Carrie Underwood: The leggy country music sensation talks about how she keeps fit while touring up to 100 days per year. Underwood has won zillions of awards and is now married to the cutest hockey player I have ever seen--Mike Fisher. (Will she take the name "Carrie Fisher" now? Hmmmm.)

 

Anyhoo, the reason the woman enjoys a perfect figure is she works on it without fail. We are talking 4-6 training sessions per week while on the road and has an enviable home gym in Nashville complete with an elliptical machine, a stationary bike, kettle bells and all kinds of accoutrements to stay motivated. Must be nice!

 

Here is Underwood showing off her favorite feature: her gams!

 

 
 

Carrie's "Food Rules":

Diet is just as important to Underwood's fitness and health program and as a vegetarian she has "food rules" she lives by including always having healthy snacks available, meat-free proteins like Quorn to eat during the evening and lots of vitamin water to stay hydrated. Got that? Good--let's move on shall we?

 

(And that concludes our celebrity portion of the magazine.)

 

What else is in Women's Health this month?

 

Also in the October Women's Health:

  

"Sculpt a Better Butt"

Just about every woman I know complains about her bum. Some hate how big they are and others pray for a little more height and lift in the trunk. So Women' Health offers 10 moves that will firm your fanny and even work on your abs while at it.

Here's the page that I ripped out and plan to use in my classes:

  

 
  

Counter Intelligence:

"Greening Up" your kitchen and making it more planet-friendly does not have to equal boring. Au contraire!  I was really surprised to see this page contain a BPA-free carafe for coffee (it gives me the "I wants") and the most adorable water carbinaotor that is shaped like a penguin. Me likey!

 

 
 
 

All of these ideas come from author and "Eco Guru," Renee Loux. You can pick up her book Easy Green Living at this link.

 How Stress Messes With Memory:

I don't if any of you have elderly parents but mine are wonderful, healthy and for the most part still sharp. I say for the most part because I have noticed in the last few years their memories (both short-term and long-term) are getting a little less than accurate let's just say.

 

For example; when I visited my folks this past August I sat back in shock as my mother recounted to a large dinner gathering the exact details of the phone call she got from me on the morning of September 11th. How I let her know I was safe and would call back as soon as I could before my telephone line just dropped off LIKE THAT!

 

The problem is --I never talked to her that morning. I left a message on the answering machine for my parents (who were living in California at the time) telling them I was safe. It was 5:30 in the morning their time and they were in bed. I could not get a phone line to dial out until well late in the day. So why does she think now we talked in real time during the event?

 

It could just be she's a nice Irish lady who likes to embellish a bit and starts to believe her own tales from time to time; but these incidents always worry me. I fear my mother will become increasingly forgetful as she gets older and will need better care. And I get scared this is what I am in store for when I get a little more gray.

 

Women's Health has an interesting article about how "Stress Messes With Memory" and its particular effect on women. Seriously--get this issue if only for this article. Your noggin will thank you!

 

 

I really liked the diagram above that has tips for jogging your memory and gaining better recall on names, passwords and that pesky "to-do" list that always seems to slip my mind.  

 

"I Want This Jacket:

No big story here. This is a simple, declarative statement. In the fashion pages of Women's Health this month we have this adorable cargo jacket from H&M. It's only $50 and that is in my budget. See you at H&M folks!

 

  

What Else is in the October Women's Health?:

  

• "Good-Bod Gizmos": More of the "I wants" here with some of the coolest new gear on the market including a bike GPS from Garmin that sounds rad, a Tunebug Shake speaker you mount on your bike helmet to listen to tunes while you ride, and a talking heart-rate monitor from Polar. Let's go shopping!

• "What's Lurking in Your DNA?": Writer Gretchen Voss tries out a mail-order kit that claims to identify the diseases you could have a propensity to get as you age including breast cancer, leukemia and stroke. Wee! I have no idea how anyone can stay calm and not obsess about those results and Voss has her issues with what the report ultimately says about her potential health threats. Worth checking out if just to get an idea how thorough they are.

• "Beat Bad Air Days": I am one of those annoying people with sinus issues. Not quite Felix Unger and his "honking;" but I have my moments. According to Women's Health, the air inside your home can be FIVE TIMES MORE POLLUTED than the air outdoors! (Holy shit balls!) We have some good advice here to keep the home air clean and keep your own sinus "honk" to a minimum.

• "Get Your Head Into the Game": Loved this! Basically we get advice from sports psychology that helps athletes to perform under pressure to deal with our own stressful situations. Just do it!

• "Your Fanny or Your Face": Recently someone asked for my picture for a business proposal and I sent along the JPEG of moi that has been my "go-to picture" for years. I guess it's time for an update as she kindly asked "You have anything more recent? You don't look like this anymore." Ouch. Anyway, Women's Health looks into the old "ass vs. face" issue and sees if there is a better compromise. (Let's hope. I am scared of needles!)

 

Plus we have an issue chock full of beauty, health, fashion and food stories that I could write about for days but alas, the time is passing by. So I will leave you with this--go get the October issue of Women's Health and let me know what you think. I want to hear from you!

  

Overall Grade: 

A!

Nicely done with tons of beauty, health, fitness, fashion and human interest stories to keep me interested. Keep it up Women's Health! See you in November!

 

ox ox,

Brooklyn Fit Chick

(BFC)

 

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It's Up! Episode 3 Recap of #Thintervention (Bring on the crying at the dinner party!)

  

Bravo's "Thintervention"

Episode Three: "Would You Like Some Cheese with Your Whine?"

(Cast photos and video clip are courtesy of BravoTV.com)

 

This week's Thintervention had me all kinds of crazy. It's pretty common knowledge on these reality weight-loss shows that week three will be the point where many people start to look for shortcuts and indulge in "wah-wah this workout is hard" whining.

 

In fact, I wrote at the top of my page of my notes last night "And now the fussing and complaining will begin." And Thintervention did not disappoint this week.  

 

But the sheer amount of emotional drama they hurled at me this episode almost sent me into a tailspin. My moods vacillated from completely irritated to giggly with "Mean Girl" joy to rooting for people I don't like to succeed and ultimately searching my entire apartment for the one picture of me from my childhood that always makes me happy.

 

WTF Bravo? Are we like dating or something now? You are messing with my mind!

 

So now that I have that off my chest--let's just dive in shall we?  

 

Fitness goddess Jackie "Mother F***in'" Warner and her adorable trainer Craig Ramsey decide that these candy asses that make up her cast need to confront their pain. We are talking pyhical and emotional pain people!

 

Sooooo, the next 10 minutes or so bring on some of the most sullen moments yet on this show. And that's saying something!

 

These are my highlights of this session.

• Stacy & Shannon/Shay: Whine incessantly and make everyone crazy with their 'I cant's." Once again ladies--no one wants to hear about a tired 20-something. If you wear out easily at your age--it's your own damn fault. Suck. It. Up.

• Jeana & Mandy: They kept their mouths shut and did the work. No one had to do a punishing routine because of them and they were overall sweet and pleasant. (Stacy & Shannon/Shay: pay attention!)

• Joe & Bryan: The two Y Chromes worked their butts off and yelled at anyone pulling lazy-bones nonsense. Good on them.

• Nikki: Fat, drunk and loathsome is no way to go through life sweetheart. And the next time you lie about having "food poisoning," Jackie should be allowed to punch you in the throat.

• Craig: I have our get-rich-quick scheme all worked out. Picture it; we make DVDs and pod casts of you yelling at people to "move their asses!" Just some music and then occasionally you just jump in and yell like a banshee. I am talking a license to print money here! Think on it.

 

Back from a commercial break and we find out that Jackie has an idea to stop all of their infighting--a "Healthy Food Pot Luck" dinner party. Uh huh.

 

Mandy being the nicest one invites everyone to her house for this gathering and we are treated to even more belly-aching and crying at the dinner table than at the gym. What the hell is the matter with these people?

  

I won't bore you with too many details but in a nutshell:

• Stacy has an almost pathological need to have people know the "real" her. And she will cry if she doesn't achieve it. Not a fan of emotional controlling and she would not get far with moi.

• Jeana brings her chef to the pot luck to cook for everyone. Can't decide if she is just clueless or kind of a show-offy asshole here. We get it Jeana--you still have money. Congratulations; now chill out.

• Mandy has possibly the sweetest little boys evah who greet her guests and offer to help them with their packages. She is a gem in my book.

• Shannon/Shay's tweaking of Joe is either her way of fighting or she just wants camera time. But at one point she just has to say she "doesn't trust him." Shannon/Shay baby--you are just losing weight here; not pulling off a bank heist. You can trust him.

 

After this we have yet another scene of the gang eating together. (Hey Bravo--your weight loss show is actually making me hungry!)

 

Ah, but the twist here is that Stacy decided her best shot at potential friends would be Joe, Nicki, and Bryan and she asks them to meet for light dinner and a good chat. You see, Stacy really just wants them to get to know "the real" her. Seriously her desperation is grating at this point. (Sweetie; most people you meet will never know "the real" you and you will be fine. Really.)

 

This scene brought out my inner "Mean Girl.'  Favorite line: "You don't drink? Then what good are you?" Ha!

 

Video here: {Picture Dorothy Parker and the Vicious Circle--in sweats.}

 

 

 

Next we finally have a fun workout segment where Jackie and Craig scare the crap out of the gang while they run drills and the stadium itself at the Rose "Mother F***in" Bowl. (Thanks for nothing for not having video of this available Bravo!)

 

Anyhoo--this is where the show took a left turn and my least favorite 20-somethings pulled out some great work out of their asses. Stacy & Shannon/Shay not only followed every command without complaining--but they wanted to go past their limit. Even Joe had to drop his guard a little and admit his admiration for them. Ooh--and Craig chased Bryan through a drill calling him 'Bitch!' (Made. My. Night.)

 

In the end Dr. Ravani, the super star therapist of the show, asked each cast member to bring a photo of themselves from their childhood. The reasoning being that "you would never talk to a child like you talk to yourself" and therefore they would be kinder to themselves from now on. 

 

(Hmm, then why does child abuse continue through generations? Parents mostly speak to their kids in the same way they were spoken to which is why this shit gets passed down. Right?)

 

But I am quibbling because this scene revealed how sweet, adorable, lonely, happy, confused and confident they all were as kids and the negative talk from relatives that nearly cripples them in their adult life.

 

I have to mention that Bryan's photo features him in a one-piece diaper and carrying a wig!  Adorable!

 

Finally we have the weekly weigh-in and all contestants pretty much sucked donkey on this one. Mainly 1-3 pounds lost by each of them. Jackie--I am trusting you are going to switch things up to get them working again. Hope so. Or else I see a mutiny a happening here...

 

And here are the final ramblings from my notepad during this episode:

 

Jackie "Mother F***in'" Warner:

 

 

You are an awesome, bad ass trainer and you know your shit. I admire how you are not going the "mean/yelling" route but I think it just might be in order now. Nicki was very disrespectful to you and that is not allowed. Bring it next week, please?

 

Mandy:

Your boys are sweet and your husband is divine. You never talk behind people's backs and you work hard. You get a gold star from me this week.  

 

 

Jeana:

Jeana, who are you really? I feel like every once in a while your face just shows up on screen and I think to myself "Oh right, she's on this show too." Now I do not want to see your sons on this show (shudders from old Real Housewives of Orange County episodes) but I would like to get to know YOU. Please let us meet the real Jeana. If nothing else, I want some ZZ Top stories. (She appeared in their videos in the 1980s.)

 

Joe:

Joe, you are putting a spell on me Dude because this week I could not help but like you. You always give 100% effort and expect that from others as well. Keep it up! (By the way, cheeseburgers are my downfall as well. I can relate--big time.)

 

Shannon/Shay: (WTF is her name Bravo? On the website she is listed as "Shannon" but no one calls her that. It's always "Shay." What gives?)

 

 
(Shannon/Shay)  

Brought the ass-hattery this week in full force. I started this episode wanting to throttle you. (There has never been a woman who described herself as a Diva who was likable. True fact.)

But somehow running around the Rose Bowl stadium reminded you that you have an inner athlete and you brought it. You were even humble in victory. I am not sure if this Shannon or Shay who is like this but please keep her in mind.

 

 

Nikki:

Wow girl. You make me hate you and love you in a single moment. How the hell do you do that? I do want to like you. And I know for sure I want to go out for drinks with you one day--but man you have a mean mouth on you. I don't blame you for picking on Stacy--she needs a thicker skin anyway. But calling out Jeana's belly and calling her a "fat man"--not nice. Do better please? You are far to bright and interesting to take the lazy route in all of your interactions. Love, Me.

 

Bryan:

Bryan--you know I love you! Keep up the hard work and keep up your wit and whimsy. You are very inspirational and a bight spot for me every week. Big "mwah's" to y'all!

 

Stacy:

Emotionally needy and inconsistent in work habits will not get you far in show business. It only seems like it will. But look at some of the most successful people in the business: Madonna; George Clooney; Lady Gaga; Kathy Griffin--these people are tough and work their tails off for everything in their lives. So please try to develop a thicker skin or I am worried this show biz life will eat you alive.

 

  

Dr. Ravani

 

Dr. Ravani brought it again this week. She doesn't talk in sound bites and gets her message across without lame platitudes. Seriously, where is her book deal? (I am starting that campaign today...)

 

 

And Craig Ramsey:

 

Seriously Dude--I think we could make a mint off your yelling. Hit me up!

 

 

Finally, as promised, I bring you my favorite childhood picture. (Don't laugh!)

  

If I could talk to this girl now I would say:

• Enjoy those bangs kiddo because you will not be able to wear them as an adult.

• Smoking will rot your teeth as well as damage your heart, never pick up the habit! (Quit 8 years ago thankyouverymuch.)

• Terence Trent D'Arby is a one-hit wonder. Do not drive through a hurricane to see him in concert. Not worth it.

• One day you are going to grow up tall and strong and go on 100-mile bike rides with friends to the Hamptons. And you will love every pedal stroke along the way.  

 

Shit people, I am bloody exhausted now! Let me know your thoughts on Thintervention. Did I forget anything?

Well too bad! Ciao for now!   (Thanks to BravoTV.com for providing the clips.)

 

 Until next time...

 

BFC

 

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Working Out Mile High with Jackie Warner (#Thintervention)

Work Out Tips for Frequent Flyers

Jackie Warner of Bravo TV's Thintervention Busts a Move Mile High

 

Hey Kids!

 

I am planning my episode three recap of Bravo TV's Thintervention later today but in the meantime, please enjoy the following clip from Jackie "Mother F***in" Warner. Our buff goddess shows how to get a little exercise in when stuck in one of those tubes in the sky.

 

(I am guessing she flies on private jets as I can't see doing lunges on Jet Blue but what the hell do I know?)

 

Check it out here (courtesy of BravoTV.com)

 

 

And when you are ready to give your belly muscles a workout, enjoy one of my favorite scenes from Airplane (a classic if there ever was one.)

 

 

 

"Chump don't want the help--chump don't get the help." Indeed.

Recap to come soon!

Ox Ox,

BFC

In case you are wondering what the storm looked like in Park Slope...(from the New York Post.com)

Scary Monsters!

Episode 2 Recap "Thintervention" #thintervention

Bravo's "Thintervention"

Episode Two: "Who Is Leaving Early Tonight?"

(Cast photos and video clips are courtesy of BravoTV.com)

 

Sorry for the lateness of this recap but yesterday got completely away from me. You know how that is...you create a "to-do" list and the next thing you know the day just slips away and slides right into cocktail hour. (I have yet to drink and Blog!)

 

I have to say though-- this was a good thing as it made me watch the episode more closely during a second viewing last night.

 

This was such a good episode that my friend Carmen (who is all piss and vinegar when it comes to commenting on reality shows) e-mailed me after Thintervention the other night to say "Dude, I hate personal trainer workout shows but I LOVE Jackie Warner." Trust me; this is very high praise.

 

So let's dive in shall we?

 

So we come to week two and our contestants are warned by our superior host Jackie "Mother F***in'" Warner that the workout intensity will be increasing and that they will be paired into teams.

 

I have to say the moves she asks them to do in 30-second bursts seem pretty damn easy to me but oh boy the moaning that happens when they have to work out...Sheesh! Really people; wear your big boy and big girls pants already!

 

Anyhoo, after contesteant Stacy fakes an asthma attack and Nikki faked the need to vomit--we learn who the teams will be to inspire one another this week. And they are:

 

• Stacy & Shannon (Because 20-somethings are known for being tough on each other?)

• Jeana & Mandy (Seems like a nice fit as they both are moms but Jeana seems very confused to meet Mandy' sweet, thoughtful husband and son. Jeana-date and parent better!)

• Kim & Bryan (She kicks his ass and he lerves it.)

• Joe & Nikki (Both seem to exist to give soundbites that are just lazy, harsh, and unfunny IMHO.)

 

The pairs bicker, coddle, push, joke and overall seem to help one another tremendously. Well, except for the 20-somethings Stacy and Shannon who came in last during the end of week final race. (Lame!)

 

All teams were literally tied together with bands which was the genius move in getting the pairs to really drop the bull shit and work together as a team.

 

In the end we learn they all lost weight but mostly in the 1-3 pound range which left most of them with the sads. Jackie let them know she will be working even harder to get them to reach their goals. Bring on the bursts of crying!

 

Oh, and I almost forgot! Jackie introduces her team to her magic potion; "Jackie's Surprise Shake" to get them through their workouts. It looked like a lot of work to me and also kind of reminded me of Ruth Gordon forcing Mia Farrow to drink the "tonic" in Rosemary's Baby.

 

But in case you are curious, here is the video of the real deal. Tell me who many plastic bins of stuff I will have to buy at GNC to copy the recipe. I lost count!

 

 

 

Finally, we learn at the end of the show that Kim has a medical condition that will prevent her from staying on the program. Very sad news as she seems like a smart lady who would give her daughter (Shannon) a run for her money. But maybe this will finally inspire Shannon to get her ass in gear. Maybe? We shall see this season.

 

Below I will give you my personal notes about each cast member written in a both sober and not-so-sober state of mind. Enjoy!

 

 

Jackie "Mother F***in'" Warner:

 

 

Really showcased some great initiatives with the cast and take-aways for the TV audience about working muscles until you fatigue to get into shape quickly. I also loved how she and Craig cooked a healthy dinner for winner of the week Bryan. Either the woman is a brilliant actress or she truly has empathy for these people. Such a nice departure from her last reality show which focused more on her dating life.  (Thank you Bravo TV!)

 

Mandy:

Still cute and I liked how she tried to share her vulnerability over personal health issues with Jeana. Mandy's liver is not as healthy as it should be due to her diet and weight and not from alcoholuse/abuse. Loved Jeana's response when Mandy said she never drinks. "Oh, really?" (Surprised/confused) My sentiments exactly. Who are these people who never drink?

 

 

Jeana:

Jeana is open enough to appear on camera with barely any makeup on but when Mandy tried sharing a moment with her about real personal issues--she went straight into talking about wanting to be in a bikini all summer. Maybe starring on Real Housewives of Orange County all of those years taught Jeana not to trust other women on camera? I hope she makes it as she seems in dire need of a breakthrough.

 

Joe:

Joe, Joe, Joe. You really want to be the cast douche don't ya? From the sexist comments about Nikki ("Orca" and "The Michelin Woman") to the overall smart ass behavior--you make it really hard to root for you Dude.

Loved it when Kim said she at first thought Bryan was straight and Joe was gay. Ha! Over compensating much?

BUT, he was cool about the boxing date with Nikki and he turned out to be the perfect partner for her in the final race so maybe he will grow up a bit? Let's hope so.

 

Kim & Shannon:

 
(Kim)

 

 
(Shannon)  

After this week we will no longer see Kim, boo! Shannon seems like a nice kid but has some lazy bones on her. I hope she gets the message after seeing her mom struggle with bad health. We hope!

 

 

Nikki:

Ugh! Shows up hungover to her workout and complains non-stop. This will not win you fans Nikki.

 

But then she had to go and get personal in the group therapy session and we learn she was basically left to raise herself due to absent parenting. Makes sense that she would make herself big and loud in order to garner attention. She's smart and has some kindness in her heart. Please bring that out more often Nikki!

 

Bryan:

I can't help but love this guy. He is sweet but not a wimp. He works hard but still gets cranky over small food choices. We also learn that Bryan was a victim of childhood sexual abuse which probably explains his problems with weight and self-image. You need a hug Bryan? I am always available! 

 

Stacy:

Whoo boy. Stacy complains quite a bit about how hard the workouts are and even fakes an asthma attack to get a break. (Yes, I am calling bull shit on the asthma. She probably had that pain in her side thing from running and decided to quit. There, I said and I am glad I said it!)

 

Stacy really needs to move her ass and work harder to make me care more about her journey. I am strongly suspecting she is using this to get on Last Comic Standing next season. Please prove me wrong Stacy!

 

And now from team Jackie we have:

Dr. Ravani

 

Dr. Ravani rocks my world! She talks like an educated professional unlike most "TV shrinks" we see on these types of shows. She is strong, kind and thoughtful and I am positive she will really be able to help these people. Woman needs a book deal people!

 

 

And Craig Ramsey:

 

Oh Craig, there you are! Last week you barely registered with me and this week you brought the adorable to 11. Yeah Craig! You are tough when you need to be and will wear footie pajamas for fun. What isn't there to love about you? Let's meet for frozen Cosmopolitans one of these days!

One last thing about Craig. I am taking a poll. Who do you think he resembles more:

 

"Jacob" from Lost:

 

 

Or "Gary" from Thirtysomething?

 

 

Anyhoo, that's all for me this week. Let me know what you think. Are you into the show yet? Who are you rooting for? Let me know! I am eager to meet other Thintervention fans. 
 

 

In the meantime, I leave you with this clip from last night's show. Cheers Everybody!

(Thanks to BravoTV.com for providing the clips.)

 

 

 

Until next time...

 

BFC

 

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Working Out With Bands (Jackie Warner edition) #Thintervention

 

No Excuses, You Can Work Out Anywhere!

"Exercise on the Go" with Jackie "Mother F***in'" Warner

 

Hey Kids! Don't worry--I plan to get up my recap of last night's fabulous Thintervention episode but I have a few deadlines to take care of first. So in the meantime--please to enjoy this video of host Jackie Warner showing some bad ass moves with a resistance band when on the road. I use them in my training and can tell you that they do indeed work.

 

Here is a picture of my resistance band: see!

(Color of my toe nail polish is "Date a Royal" by OPI by the way. You're welcome!)

 

No here we have Jackie's video from Bravo TV.com. I hope my Wednesday morning client is watching because this is what we are doing tomorrow!

 

 

 

Thintervention episode 2 recap to come later today!

 

Ox ox,

BFC 

 

Are You Ready for Some Football? "Phil Simms NFL Workout" (1987) #NFL

 

 

 

Are You Ready for Some Football?

Phil Simms NFL Workout: 1987

 

Hey there gang! Well it looks like today marks the official start of the 2010 NFL season (Go Niners!) and I say it's the perfect time for me to introduce you to a workout tape I have known about for years and always wanted to share to my fellow fitness/football fans--the Phil Simms NFL Workout circa 1987. You're welcome!

 

Ch-ch-check it out....

 

 

First some background. Way back in the land of the early 90's, I was a college student who played the retail game to pay my bills. One of my favorite stores I worked at was a short-lived company called "Allez" (which is french for the word "go") and we sold all kinds of aerobics gear. I am talking sweat bands, neon-colored tights, leotards, bright shoelaces and some of the tackiest shit you can imagine.

 

You see kids, ladies use to think they had to dress like a "dancer" in order to workout, Only boys wore shorts and t-shirts to the gym people!

 

Anyhoo, in addition to the cheesy gear we also sold workout tapes by the boatload which we had to play during stores hours. All. Day. Long. It quickly became very tedious to listen to Jane Fonda and Kathy Smith repeatedly (though I do love and respect y'all) so us Allez chicks started bringing in our own VHS tapes to mix things up.

 

One of the more popular ones was Phil Simms' workout because it was something for the dudes to watch while their wives and girlfriends obsessed over getting the exact, same-colored scrunchy to match their bra top. (Not kidding.)

 

In 1986, Phil Simms' New York Giants won the Super Bowl making him a big time bad-ass and therefore perfect for the NFL to cash in on his foxy physique and create an aerobics tape that would appeal to macho armchair quarterbacks everywhere.

 

In this video we meet:

Phil McConkey, Eric Dickerson, Todd Christensen, Rulon Jones, Tony Dorsett, Gary Anderson and my personal fave: Reggie Williams (yes, please!) If you don't know who any of these guys are--no worries. They all come across as down-to-earth and seem to genuinely enjoy themselves during the routines. You can get your own copy for only 97 cents (plus shipping and handling) at amazon.com.

 

There are also a few "angels" featured to help the guys along in the most incredibly craptastic 80's workout ensembles that will make you LOL and scratch your head.  (I'd like a white lace brief to wear OVER my purple unitard, please!)

 

Below you will find the clip from Phil Simms NFL Workout. Please watch and then read my insights, questions and key learnings:

 

 

Where to begin?

• What is up with Todd Christensen's "Soul Glo" hair and porn 'stache?

• Rulon Jones fabulous legs makes me nostalgic for the days when guys wore shorts higher than their shins.

• How sexy and cool is Reggie Williams? Seriously, I am getting the vapors thinking about him!

• Am I the only one who thinks Tony Dorsett's "angel" looks like Laraine Newman from Saturday Night Live?

 

 

Oh, and how about the fact that the instructor of the video, a tall, willowy blonde in a canary yellow, cave woman meets hillbilly outfit; is wearing a thong and flesh colored tights! Go to the 3.52 mark and you will see for yourself.

 

I don't know about you but you would never catch me flashing my butt cheeks to a room full of linebackers but I guess she felt she was in a safe space. (Shaking my head in disbelief.)

 

So in conclusion I want to say "yeah" to the new NFL season and hope your team kicks ass this year. (Just not the Niners' ass, of course.)

 

I leave you with my favorite NFL heartthrob, Steve Young, and his amazing run against Minnesota in 1988 that ends with a spectacular belly flop into the end zone. If I ever attempt a triathlon--that's how I am going to finish. :)

 

Until next time...

 

BFC

 

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"Thintervention" Recap: Let's Meet Our Contestants...#thintervention

 

Bravo's "Thintervention"

Episode One: "Let's Meet Our Contestants, Shall We?"

(All photos and video clips are courtesy of BravoTV.com)

 

Finally we get Bravo TV's version of a weight-loss/makeover program with the cleverly titled "Thintervention" where Jackie "Mother F***in'" Warner is really in charge and showing off her strengths, yes!!

 

Check out the six-pack on Jackie here:

 

 

In case you are not familiar with it...Work Out was a "reality"show on Bravo TV (2006-2008) that followed the shenanigans at the SkyLab gym which Jackie owns and runs. Check out the details of SkyLab here! (link)

 

I was one of those stooges who watched Work Out every week hoping to get diet and fitness advice but instead saw a bunch of pseudo trainers take turns acting like buffoons. (I call bull shit on Rebeca, Brian and Gregg in particular.)

Not. A. Fan.

 

 

Anyhoo, Bravo wisely decided to give Jackie a show that actually presents health and fitness in a compelling way while helping real people and not C-list music stars. (Sorry, Jody Whatley!)

 

Thintervention takes a group of folks eager to lose weight while getting their lives on track and is set in beautiful So. Cal. locations. Not only will the participants have group exercise sessions and group therapy--but Jackie will drop by on them in their "real" lives from time to time to see how they are doing. This is not a fat farm show people!

 

Wanna Meet the People Who Will Have Their Butts Kicked by Jackie?:

 

Mandy:

Cute mom and former pro cheerleader who apparently has a husband who won't "let" her carry groceries. She wishes to lose 30 pounds by the end and I predict her incessant cuteness won't cut any ice with Jackie. Just sayin'...

 

Jeana:

Former Real Housewife of Orange County who wisely picked a better Bravo show to get "real" and put her life in order. Back in the 80's she was a smokin' hot Playboy model who appeared in a slew of ZZ Top videos. She must still have money in a crappy O.C. real estate market (she sells Mc Mansions to tacky, over-tanned people) because Jeana not only still has a phat house but she also has a fat personal chef to cook for her! (How is this possible?)

Jeana's' goal is to lose 25 pounds. I will root for Jeana to succeed but if Bravo TV gets cute and brings on Gretchen or Slade from Real Housewives, I am throwing my TV out the window.

 

Joe:

According to my notes, Joe "could be hot if he lost the pudge." Has potential to be a stud but I wonder if he has any game with the ladies? Convinced Jeanna is warm for his form. I am skeptical. Joe is eager to lose 40 pounds.

 

Kim & Shannon:

 
(Kim)

 

 
(Shannon)  

Adorable mother and daughter team who are working on helping each other reach their health and fitness goals. Did not take too many notes on either of them which could mean I was either distracted by my glass of wine or their personalities aren't shining through yet. Mom wants to lose 30 pounds and Shannon is trying to "find the motivation to become a better version of herself." I wish them well.

 

 

Nikki:

My notes say "Rich Bitch!" with a big underline. Nikki the Aussie is wealthy due to her generous family and sits around her LA home entertaining fawning gays. (Also from my notes.) I hope I learn to like her but already find the accent and attitude grating. She's aiming to lose 50 pounds. Jackie enjoys kicking her ass.

 

Bryan:

Another cute guy with a big face. Bryan likes his sweets. Really likes them. Jackie gives him the business about this. (Clip below) I hope he makes it. His boyfriend Miguel seems really nice. Bry Bry is trying to shed off 60 pounds.

 

Stacy:

Here we have a comedian and actress who puts on a very happy,cheerful front. But I will bet you dollars to donuts she will be the biggest crier on the show. Just you wait! Stacy is trying to lose 60 pounds and my notes say I like her so far. So there.

 

And now from team Jackie we have:

Dr. Ravani

 

Dr. Ravani is the show's psychologist, is all business and will not tolerate anyone's emotional bull shit on  Thintervention. I predict she will have conflicts that will make for great cliffhanger clips! Wee!

 

And Craig Ramsey:

 

Hmm, I don't have any notes on him. I can tell you he is cute and unlike the bozos from Work Out, appears to be a real trainer who will have Jackie's back. Maybe his personality will shine later on? He is a real cutie pie, right?  What's his name again?

 

So What Happened Last Night?

 

Here are a couple of moments I LOVED!! (Thanks to BravoTV.com for providing the clips.)

 

Nikki; no drinking tonight--right?

 

 

Actually I have been known to enjoy my cocktails so I will lay off her on this one. But the accent is really irritating.  

 

Here we have Bryan and the cookies which make him happy. Jackie drops by his apartment and to show him how long it takes to work off two Oreos (140 calories)-- makes him run up and down the stairs in his building until he burns it off. Ha!

 

 

At the end, Thintervention has their 'weekly weigh-in" and everyone loses a decent number of pounds which is very heartwarming. Yeah cast mates!

 

So now we are off and running with the show. Here are my big predictions:

• Stacy, the stand-up comic, will admit she uses jokes to cover her real feelings.

• Joe will prove to be obnoxious.

• Nicki will continue to drink and sneak cigarettes as often as she can.

• Bryan will become obsessed with sugar.

• Jackie will always wear belly-baring outfits when leading the workouts.

• Dr. Ravani will lose her patience with someone who will make "too many excuses."

• Jeana is still haunted by the treatment of her shitty ex-husband and awful sons. (HATE them!)

 

So did you check out the show? What are your thoughts? Let me know and I will be here every week to give you my own recap. Promise!

 

Until next time...

 

BFC

 

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